Healthy at Starbucks? These Are the 10 Best Drinks, Ranked by Nutritionists

Let’s be real—Starbucks is a lifesaver during our busy days. But if you’re trying to stay healthy or cut down on sugar, the endless options can feel overwhelming. Don't worry—we've got you covered. We teamed up with nutrition experts and combed through the menu to rank the Top 10 Healthiest Starbucks Drinks that are actually delicious and good for you.

Whether you’re keto, watching your sugar, or just looking to make smarter choices, this list is your new go-to.

1. Iced Green Tea (Unsweetened)

Calories: 0 | Sugar: 0g
Fresh, hydrating, and full of antioxidants, Starbucks’ unsweetened green tea is a refreshing choice without any added sugar. Plus, it’s made with real green tea leaves, so you're getting the real deal.

💡 Pro Tip: Ask for a splash of lemonade if you want a little citrus zing—with minimal calories.

2. Caffè Americano

Calories: 15 | Sugar: 0g
A classic choice made by adding hot water to espresso, an Americano gives you the caffeine boost you crave with almost zero calories. You can dress it up with cinnamon or a dash of almond milk for a richer taste.

3. Cold Brew with a Splash of Almond Milk

Calories: ~25 | Sugar: ~1g
This smooth, less acidic coffee option is lower in caffeine spikes and pairs perfectly with a plant-based milk. Almond milk keeps it creamy without adding much sugar or fat.

4. Iced Passion Tango Tea (Unsweetened)

Calories: 0 | Sugar: 0g
Caffeine-free and bursting with hibiscus, lemongrass, and apple, this vibrant herbal tea is totally guilt-free. It’s perfect for hot summer days or when you’re trying to cut back on caffeine.

5. Flat White with Almond Milk

Calories: ~100 | Sugar: ~4g (Tall)
This silky espresso drink gets a healthy makeover with almond milk. It’s a great pick if you want something creamy but lower in sugar than a latte.

🌿 Nutritionist Tip: Almond milk is one of the lowest-calorie milk alternatives at Starbucks.

6. Matcha Tea Latte with Coconut Milk (Lightened Up)

Calories: ~100 | Sugar: ~10g (Short size)
Matcha is rich in antioxidants, and when paired with unsweetened coconut milk, you get a tropical twist with fewer calories. Just be sure to ask for “one scoop of matcha” to keep the sugar in check.

7. Honey Almondmilk Cold Brew

Calories: 50 | Sugar: 10g (Tall)
A lightly sweetened cold brew that blends almond milk with a hint of honey. It’s a better alternative to sugary iced coffees, and the almond milk keeps it dairy-free.

8. Espresso Macchiato

Calories: 15 | Sugar: 0g
Two shots of espresso topped with a dollop of foam—simple, strong, and elegant. If you love coffee flavor and don’t need the frills, this one’s a win.

9. Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso (Light Version)

Calories: ~90 | Sugar: ~8g (Customized)
This one’s a fan favorite—but it can be a sugar bomb. Ask for one pump of brown sugar syrup and light oat milk for a drink that tastes indulgent without being over the top.

10. Steamed Apple Juice with Cinnamon (Kid’s Temp)

Calories: ~120 | Sugar: ~25g (Short)
Okay, hear us out: this is cozy, comforting, and perfect for fall. It’s essentially a healthy cider—if you go for the short size and skip the caramel drizzle.

🍎 Nutrition Note: Yes, it’s higher in sugar, but it’s all from juice—not added syrups. A great seasonal option if you want to skip pumpkin spice.

Quick Tips for Ordering Healthy at Starbucks:

• Say "no classic syrup" to cut extra sugar.

• Go for short or tall sizes to keep calories in check.

• Choose unsweetened plant-based milk like almond or coconut.

• Always customize—Starbucks baristas are super helpful!

Final Sip

Healthy doesn’t have to mean boring, especially at Starbucks. With just a few tweaks, you can keep your daily ritual without compromising your health goals. Bookmark this list, or screenshot it for your next coffee run.

💬 Got a favorite healthy Starbucks hack? Share it in the comments or tag us on Instagram @VelvetMonogram!