Whether you’re an avid coffee drinker or just meeting friend for a little caffeine infused conversation, making the proper choices when it comes to the ice coffee we drink can make a huge difference on our health and physical bodies. Americans consume 400 million cups of coffee per day, equivalent to 146 billion cups per year! It has been documented that individuals who drink coffee on a regular basis are likely to live longer than those who don’t, PROVIDED they are making informed decisions with what is being added to their daily cup(s) of java. While black coffee would clearly be the best option, some of us (Me, Me, Me!) need a little flavor to spice it up! Today we are going to explore what options are available for the avid ice coffee drinker that is health conscious, but still need a little variety thrown in the mix.
No matter what your poison, there is ALWAYS a HEALTHIER option!
Mocha
DO: Iced Skinny Mocha; Bittersweet Skinny mocha sauce, espresso, non-fat Milk served with light Ice: 100 Calories!
In Lieu of: Peppermint Chocolate Mocha: 570 Calories, 22 Grams of Fat!! Even with skim milk it contains 430 calories! You’ve been warned!
Calories Saved = 470
DO: Mocha Frappuccino Light ; Coffee, light mocha sauce, blended with non-fat milk and ice: 130 calories
In Lieu of: Double Chocolate Chip Frappuccino — 500 calories (98 carbs!!!) I think the name itself suggests this not to be an ideal option for anyone trying to avoid love handles.
Calories Saved = 370
Caramel
DO: Caramel Frappuccino Light: Coffee blended with light caramel sauce, non-fat milk and ice: 140 Calories
In Lieu of: Caramel Frappuccino: Coffee blended with caramel sauce, whole milk, and topped with whip cream and yet even more caramel sauce! 410 Calories
Calories Saved= 270
Vanilla
DO: Sugar-Free Vailla Latte: Espresso, non-fat milk, sugar-free vanilla syrup with ice: 120 Calories
In Lieu of: Caffe’ Vanilla Frappuccino: Coffee with vanilla bean powder, blended with milk and ice. Topped with sweetened whipped cream. 430 Calories. If you opt with this you may as well just hit up your local Ice Cream shop and order the biggest sundae they offer and have them pour a cup or 2 of chocolate fudge on top of it. I feel that would be far more mentally stimulating!
Calories Saved= 310
AUTHORS PERSONAL FAVORITE:
Grande Sugar Free Iced Mocha, Non-Fat, No Whip, Light Ice, with and Extra Shot: Reminds me of and tastes like chocolate milk mixed with heaven, and just the right amount of caffeine to spark a fire under one’s a$$!! 130 Calories
Keep in mind the most beneficial times to consume coffee are first thing in the morning, 30-60 minutes prior to a workout, or post meal! Also, please note that while caffeine has several benefits to ones health when used in moderation, it is still technically classified as a drug and the body can develop a tolerance to it over time. To avoid caffeine addiction limit yourself to no more than 1-3 8oz cups per day. Stay tuned for more creative, fun recipes in the very near future!
* All recipes referenced were 160z or “Grande” sizes. Source: Starbucks website
Chris Cavallini
