Starbucks is a lifesaver – it’s practically everywhere and almost always open. Now, while it’s there for you in a time of caffeine deprivation and hunger, it’s not the healthiest spots to grab anything more than a coffee (and even there you have to watch out – Frappuccino?). Starbucks offers a large variety of sustenance, such as baked goods, sandwiches, salads, yogurt and fruit, ready-made boxes and pre-wrapped bars; most of which are packed with sugar and calories.
In today’s health-conscience society, we thought it would be wise to look under the hood of the drinks and food options at Starbucks and find the healthiest things on the menu for your consuming pleasure. Here is what we came out with:
DRINKS
Stick to any espresso-based drinks. Go wild and add full-fat milk or any of the non-diary milks such as almond, coconut and soy milk for us lactose intolerant folks out there.
Another great option would be their tea selection – just make sure they don’t sweeten the iced tea with syrup like they like to do.
Avoid anything with whipped cream and syrups, which is sadly most of the drinks menu at Starbucks.
FOOD
There has been quite a push for healthier options on the Starbucks menu and Starbucks has listened. Great options to go with on the food front would be:
- Famer’s Market Protein Box
- Herbed Chicken and Fig Spread Sandwich
- Smoked Turkey Protein Box
- Certified Gluten Free Breakfast Sandwich
- Organic Avocado Spread
- Spinach, Feta, and Cage Free Egg White Breakfast Wrap
- Sous Vide Egg Bites: Egg White and Red Pepper
- Cage Free Eggs and Seasoned Grains Side Salad
- Classic Whole Grain Oatmeal
Every one of these has a balanced ratio of protein, carbs, low sugar and high in fiber.
Life is all about choices. Some of these choices include what to eat when you are on the go (the worst time to make a decision, especially when you’re hungry). Eating a well-balanced meal or snack is important for your daily productivity level, and we are sure you are working hard to rule the world, whether that world be your office or your home or both!
Now that you have a guide to some of the healthiest items on the Starbucks menu, you can steer clear from the donuts, bagels, scones, and croissants. Also, let’s be honest, if you are really looking for a caffeine fix and not a sugar rush, you should be going to the espresso based latte, cappuccino or iced coffee and not a Frappuccino or smoothie.
*All images were taken from the Starbucks Instagram account.
