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Ask the Doctors | April 2005

Ask the Doctors
By Drs. Jeff, Craig and Marissa

Question: "You mentioned in one of your articles that it’s okay to splurge (treat yourself) once a week. My weakness is Starbucks! If I have to have my "coffee kick", what would you recommend?"

Answer: Ah…this is a great question! There is no doubt that Starbucks has made its mark in our society, and it won’t be going anywhere soon. But, before we answer this question, we must state that we do not promote Starbucks, nor do we advocate regular coffee consumption. With that said, we did some research for you and here is what we found.

According to published Starbucks nutritional facts:

  • We’ve selected what we consider to be the most popular Starbucks drinks:
    • Frappuccino blended creme drinks: Cals 590, Fat 24g, Carbs 83g
    • Mocha: Cals 400, Fat 22g, Carbs 42g
    • Caramel Macchiato: Cals 310, Fat 12g, Carbs 37g
    • Café Latte: Cals 260, Fat 14g, Carbs 21g
    • Regular Drip Coffee: Cals 10, Fat 0g, Carbs 0g

  • Drinking a Frappuccino drink is nutritionally equivalent to having a large McDonald’s milkshake or two "Quarter Pounder" burgers (NCS).
  • Obviously, we’d recommend a drink with the lowest sugar and calorie count.
  • Be aware that if you add sugar and/or syrup flavoring to your drink, you could be adding 15-25% more carbs and calories.
  • Please limit the baked goods. I know it’s tempting, but baked goods are full of sugar, white flour, and possible hydrogenated trans-fats.

After looking at all the nutritional facts, we’d have to give our highest recommendation to a small black coffee with cream, no sugar. Also, be aware that a coffee and a scone is not a healthy way to start your day. Even if you are pressed for time in the morning, this gives you no excuse to abuse your body. Why not, in place of the coffee and scone, have a healthy, blended whey protein shake, with a teaspoon of extra-virgin olive oil, and some organic frozen berries. Remember, it is okay to indulge once in awhile, but it should be limited to once or twice a week…and that’s it!