Slim Down Secrets: How to save calories at the coffee house

TAMPA - Can't live without your caramel latte?

The excess calories from added sugar and fats found in most coffee house concoctions can add up, but that doesn't mean you have to ditch your morning mocha.

Try these tips from registered dietitian and chef Michelle Dudash for skinnier sipping that is as nutritious as it is delicious.

1) Switch 2% milk out for non-fat milk. Most places use 2% milk as the standard unless you ask for it differently. Skim milk offers the same amount of calcium and vitamin D as 2%, but with less calories and saturated fat.

2) Lighten up on the amount of sweetener you add to your cup of Jo. Since taste buds have an affinity for sugar, it might take a few times of trying your coffee with little or no sweetener before you really enjoy it.

3) Flavor your coffee with spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg so you won’t miss the whipped cream or sugary syrups. You’ll also get a dose of antioxidants.

4) If you can’t live without the caramel, ask the barista to “go easy” or “light” on the caramel, which will still save you calories.

5) Sweeten your drink and add creamer on your own if able, so you can control how much (or little) is added.

6) Use the nutrition facts to make decisions. Most chain coffee houses keep the nutrition facts on premises or online. If you have a local spot you prefer, use a chain’s nutrition facts as a guide. The differences between the brands should be small.

7) Don’t be afraid to make multiple modifications or special requests.

Instead of that:
Medium caramel macchiato
240 calories, 7 grams fat

Drink this:
Medium caramel macchiato with skim milk, light on the caramel.
190 calories, 1 grams fat

Instead of that:
Medium mocha blended espresso drink with whipped cream
360 calories, 14 grams fat

Drink this:
Medium mocha blended espresso drink with skim milk, no whipped cream
230 calories, 1 gram fat

Instead of that:
Medium iced passion hibiscus tea lemonade (presweetened)
190 calories, 49 grams sugar

Drink this:
Medium iced passion hibiscus tea with 1 packet Splenda™ sweetener
0 calories, 0 grams sugar

For more information about Michelle, visit her website at michelledudash.com .