This Is The Healthiest Drink You Can Order At Starbucks, According To A Nutritionist
For many of us, a daily cup of coffee is as much a ritual as it is a jumpstart to the day. And if you frequent coffee shops, it can be difficult to navigate large menus, especially if you have dietary restrictions or you're looking for something healthy. While everyone knows black coffee or hot tea probably offers the biggest nutrition bang for your buck, I wanted to know what to order when you want something a little more special. Registered dietitian nutritionist Lauren Manaker tells Delish the healthiest drink you can order at Starbucks besides plain ol' coffee or tea.
"Many drinks found at Starbucks can quickly turn into sugar bombs, packed with added sugars from syrups, whipped cream, and sugary toppings," says Manaker, registered dietitian nutritionist. Her ideal pick is a basic latte with 2% dairy milk topped with cinnamon. "This simple combination strikes the perfect balance of natural flavors with no added sugars," she says. "The dairy milk offers 13 essential nutrients, including calcium, vitamin D, and high-quality protein to help promote satiety." And the cinnamon? Not only does it pair well with the beverage, but she says that it's known for its potential antioxidant properties.
Even beyond a latte or drip coffee, Manaker has plenty of tips if you want to order something on the healthier side: keep portions in check by ordering smaller sizes; choose unsweetened drinks or ask for fewer pumps of syrup; or skip extra toppings like whipped cream. She also recommends pairing your drink with a nutritious snack like a handful of nuts, fruit and cheese, or a hard-boiled egg, to increase satiety. "Making mindful decisions about your pairings can enhance both flavor and overall well-being," she added.
But this isn't to say you should completely avoid your favorite Starbucks drinks. "Whether it's a Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino or a Peppermint Mocha, indulging in something you love as part of an overall balanced and healthy diet is perfectly fine," she said. "The goal isn’t about restriction but about making choices that work best for you and your lifestyle."
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