Your favourite pick-me-up doesn’t need to derail your diet. Try these lower-calorie alternatives
Morning never complete without a cup of coffee? Or perhaps you can’t say no to a milky vanilla latte from your local cafe? While coffee has its benefits – including lifting your mood and supporting gut health – it could be packed with hidden calories. And if you’re also treating yourself to a sweet snack on the side, you could be racking up over 500 calories in just one visit! But don’t worry – there’s no need to quit one of life’s little luxuries. By simply making a few savvy swaps you can still satisfy your cravings, minus a splash of guilt.
Switch up your order
Shave off calories without sacrificing flavour… DRINK UP
MCDONALD’S
SWAP Large cappuccino with semi-skimmed milk 124 cals FOR Large white coffee with semi-skimmed milk 74 cals
STARBUCKS SWAP Tall coffee frappuccino with whole milk 217 cals FOR Tall cold brew latte with skimmed milk 79 cals
GREGGS SWAP Regular latte with semi-skimmed milk 111 cals FOR Flat white with semi-skimmed milk 71 cals
TUCK IN MCDONALD’S SWAP Sausage and egg McMuffin 423 cals FOR Egg and cheese McMuffin 295 cals
COSTA SWAP Medium hot chocolate with whole milk 349 cals* FOR Medium chai latte with skimmed milk 166 cals
PRET SWAP Breakfast smoothie 281 cals FOR Zesty lime and raspberry seltzer 0 cals
STARBUCKS SWAP Pain au chocolat 314 cals FOR Butter croissant 259 cals
GREGGS SWAP Triple chocolate cookie 358 cals FOR Jammy heart cookie 273 cals
COSTA SWAP Carrot and walnut cake 500 cals FOR Millionaire’s shortbread 396 cals
PRET SWAP Bacon roll 455 cals FOR Smoked salmon and soft cheese open sandwich 353 cals
95 MILLION
THE NUMBER OF CUPS OF COFFEE CONSUMED EVERY DAY IN THE UK, ACCORDING TO THE BRITISH COFFEE ASSOCIATION.
HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?
‘The recommended daily intake for caffeine is 400mg, that’s about three small cups a day,’ says dietitian Lola Biggs. ‘But be aware of other foods and drinks that contain caffeine, such as dark chocolate or energy drinks, as that could increase your intake. If caffeine is having a negative effect on you, try decaf (which still contains a tiny amount of caffeine) or cut it out.’
5 benefits of your c
