Smart Sips at Coffee Shops

I love just about everything about coffee shops. I love the aroma that floats through the air, and mixes with the smooth jazz music as I step inside. I love the creamy taste of a finely mixed beverage in my hand (hot or iced). Most of all, I love the way that coffee shops bring people together, and spark meaningful conversation along with laughter.

One day I discovered that some 12 oz drinks contain over 350 calories, and thought, "There has to be an alternative!"

Have no fear, my fellow caffiene connoisseurs. Our pleas have been heard with plently of alternatives that won't sacrifice taste.

Little Miss Munch's Starbucks Faves
Caramel Macchiato- order with nonfat or soy milk, and ask for sugar free vanilla syrup to be substituted for the regular vanilla syrup. Personally, I like my macchiatos steamy, but this drink is also delicious iced!

Iced Skinny Vanilla Latte-the word "skinny" may seem unappatizing, but believe me, this drink is a creamy vanilla delight on a warm afternoon. The best part is, a 12oz serving is only 60 calories.

Sugar Free Cinnamon Dolce Latte- I love this option when the weather cools down; the spices remind me of autumn.

Iced Green Tea- On a hot summer day, nothing is more refreshing. Ask for Splenda instead of syrup for a 0 calorie treat. Drink up!

Mocha Light Frappucino- Cool, blended mocha. Yum!

There are other ways to make the drink of your choice a little healthier. Ditch the whip, opt for skim or soy milk, and ask for sugar free syrups.

Okay, all this talk about coffee makes me want to jog to the nearest coffee shop for my caffeine fix.

Happy coffee shopping!