A nutrition expert has analysed popular coffee shop drinks, revealing that some contain up to 350 calories and high levels of sugar and fat. Kelly Gray, speaking to Coffee Friend, ranked the healthiest and unhealthiest options available on UK high streets.
Gray recommended Americanos, black coffee, and espressos as the healthiest choices, as they contain no added sugar or preservatives. For milk-based drinks, she advised opting for skimmed or unsweetened almond milk to keep calories and fat low.
However, many dairy-free alternatives in coffee shops are sweetened, adding extra sugar. Gray warned that lattes, flat whites, and cappuccinos are often high in calories and fat due to large amounts of whole milk. A typical pumpkin spice latte can contain around 350 calories.
The nutritionist also noted that while caffeine can improve alertness and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, excessive consumption may cause anxiety, sleep disruption, and increased heart rate. She recommended limiting intake to two to five cups of 'clean' coffee per day.
