HEALTHIEST STARBUCKS DRINKS RECOMMENDED BY DIETITIANS

Matt Case - April 1st, 2024 - 9:01am PDT 

While Starbucks may be renowned for its indulgent, high-calorie coffee creations, it wasn't the pioneer of such treats — centuries before, the Viennese enjoyed their whipped cream-topped espressos known as Einspänner, a testament to Vienna's rich coffee house culture.

However, Starbucks has certainly popularized the concept in modern times. Amidst the array of calorie-dense beverages and sugar-laden fruity drinks, which can sometimes contain more sugar than the daily recommended intake, the essence of the original Starbucks — a place for superior coffee — persists, echoing the historical evolution of coffee consumption over the centuries.

So, when aiming to minimize sugar and fat intake without sacrificing enjoyment, what are the best options to choose at Starbucks? Courtesy of the experts: Marissa Meshulam, MS, RD, CDN, registered dietitian nutritionist and founder of MPM Nutrition, and Kristen Carli, MS, RD, registered dietitian nutritionist and founder of Camelback Nutrition Wellness.

Caffé Americano

Cappuccino

Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso

Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew

Iced Flat White 

Mint Majesty Herbal Tea

To make your Starbucks order healthier, the experts recommend the following adjustments:

Milk: Opt for non-fat or plant-based milk options to reduce saturated fat intake, as advised by Carli.

Sweeteners: Limit the syrup by requesting fewer pumps. Gradually decrease the amount with each visit to discover the minimum sweetness level you enjoy.

Toppings: Reconsider the necessity of whipped cream, caramel, and drizzles. It's important to differentiate between what you want and what you need.

Size: Consider choosing a smaller size to decrease sugar and fat content. If you're concerned about losing the caffeine boost, simply add an extra shot of espresso.