Anyone trying to lose weight is likely steeling themselves to face a world of temptation as the sweets and treats of the festive season begin to descend. However it’s not just the cookies and cakes you need to be wary of but your coffees too.
One doctor, Professor Franklin Joseph of Dr Frank’s Weight Loss Clinic, highlighted the worst festive drinks that are “calorie bombs”. He explained: “Festive drinks can have calorie counts similar to a full meal, with sugar levels far above what most people expect in a single drink.”
He highlighted that a single cup of many top winter warmers exceed the NHS daily sugar recommendations. But it’s not all lost as the professor explained how you can still enjoy your favourite festive drinks without feeling too guilty, sharing alternatives for some of the worst calorie-laden drinks.
- Starbucks Caramel Brulée Latte
A venti-sized latte with whole milk and cream offer almost double the amount of sugar the NHS recommends per day, and 540 calories, nearly equivalent to a Big Mac.
- Costa Coffee Billionaire’s Latte
Holding 518 calories and 55 grams of sugar, this coffee is nearly equivalent to three Krispy Kreme Original Glazed Doughnuts.
- Pret A Manger Gingerbread Latte
The large latte has 435 calories, equal to two slices of Domino’s Cheese Pizza but also adds a sugary punch with 44 grams.
- Caffè Nero Salted Caramel Latte
These regular-sized lattes have 380 calories and 39 grams of sugar, on par with two Mars bars.
Prof Joseph highlighted that these sugary drinks can worsen cravings, putting your entire weight loss plan at risk, while also spiking your blood sugar. Instead, he recommended some low-calorie alternatives that still hold a festive spark.
Adding a shot of peppermint to normal black Americanos can give you that holiday caffeine kick for less than 10 calories and leaves you completely in control of how much sugar you want in your cup. Similarly, a gingerbread cold brew with cold foam can offer the holiday vibes for 60 calories or less simply by ditching the syrups and using cold foam for creaminess instead of whipped cream.
Finally, an almond milk latte with some festive sugar-free syrups can offer the same cinnamon latte experience for 100 calories or less. Prof Joseph also recommended choosing non-dairy milk and avoiding sweeteners to keep the unnecessary calories off.