As the temperatures drop, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm cup of your favorite hot drink. However, many popular hot beverages are high in calories, sugar, and cream, which can hinder your weight loss goals or overall health. Fortunately, there are plenty of delicious and low-calorie hot drinks to choose from. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best options to warm you up without weighing you down.
Low-Calorie Coffee Drinks
Coffee is a staple for many of us, but it can quickly become a calorie bomb when loaded with sugar, cream, and syrup. However, there are ways to enjoy your coffee without breaking the calorie bank.
Black Coffee
The simplest and lowest-calorie coffee option is black coffee. Brewed coffee typically contains around 0-2 calories per 8 oz cup. You can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of cinnamon to give it some flavor without adding calories.
Espresso
Espresso is another low-calorie coffee option, with around 5-10 calories per 1 oz shot. You can enjoy it on its own or use it as a base for other low-calorie drinks like Americanos or macchiatos.
Low-Calorie Coffee Creamers
If you prefer your coffee with a creamy texture, there are several low-calorie creamer options available. Look for sugar-free and low-fat creamers made with natural ingredients like almond milk, coconut milk, or cashew milk. Some popular low-calorie coffee creamer brands include:
- Nutpods: 10-30 calories per tablespoon
- Coffee Mate Natural Bliss: 20-50 calories per tablespoon
- Califia Farms: 10-30 calories per tablespoon
Low-Calorie Tea Options
Tea is another popular hot drink that can be enjoyed in a variety of low-calorie ways.
Green Tea
Green tea is a low-calorie and highly nutritious option, with around 0-2 calories per 8 oz cup. It’s rich in antioxidants and has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including weight loss and improved heart health.
Herbal Tea
Herbal tea is a caffeine-free and low-calorie option, with around 0-2 calories per 8 oz cup. There are countless herbal tea flavors to choose from, including peppermint, chamomile, and hibiscus.
Low-Calorie Chai Tea
Chai tea is a spiced tea drink that typically contains black tea, milk, and spices. To make a low-calorie chai tea, use a low-calorie milk alternative like almond milk or coconut milk, and reduce the amount of sugar and honey. You can also use a low-calorie chai tea mix or make your own spice blend using cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
Low-Calorie Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate is a delicious and comforting drink that can be enjoyed in a low-calorie way.
Low-Calorie Hot Chocolate Mix
Look for low-calorie hot chocolate mixes made with natural ingredients like cocoa powder, coconut sugar, and almond milk. Some popular low-calorie hot chocolate mix brands include:
- Ghirardelli Double Chocolate: 100-150 calories per 8 oz cup
- Swiss Miss Dark Chocolate: 120-180 calories per 8 oz cup
- So Delicious Hot Cocoa: 100-150 calories per 8 oz cup
Make Your Own Low-Calorie Hot Chocolate
To make your own low-calorie hot chocolate, use a low-calorie milk alternative like almond milk or coconut milk, and reduce the amount of sugar and cream. You can also use a low-calorie sweetener like stevia or erythritol. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
| Ingredients | Calories |
|---|---|
| 1 cup almond milk | 30-60 calories |
| 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder | 10-20 calories |
| 1 tablespoon honey or low-calorie sweetener | 60-100 calories |
| 1/4 teaspoon salt | 0 calories |
| Total | 100-180 calories |
Other Low-Calorie Hot Drinks
There are many other delicious and low-calorie hot drinks to explore beyond coffee, tea, and hot chocolate.
Low-Calorie Apple Cider
Apple cider is a tasty and low-calorie hot drink made from apple juice, cinnamon, and other spices. Look for low-calorie apple cider mixes or make your own using apple juice, cinnamon sticks, and a sweetener like stevia or erythritol.
Low-Calorie Gingerbread Latte
Gingerbread lattes are a popular holiday drink that can be made in a low-calorie way. Use a low-calorie milk alternative like almond milk or coconut milk, and reduce the amount of sugar and cream. You can also use a low-calorie gingerbread spice mix or make your own using cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
Conclusion
There are many delicious and low-calorie hot drinks to choose from, whether you prefer coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or something else. By using low-calorie ingredients and reducing the amount of sugar and cream, you can enjoy your favorite hot drinks without breaking the calorie bank. So go ahead, warm up with a cup of your favorite low-calorie hot drink, and savor the flavor without the guilt.
What are some popular low-calorie hot drinks?
Low-calorie hot drinks are perfect for those who want to stay warm and cozy without consuming too many calories. Some popular options include hot tea, such as green tea, black tea, or herbal tea, as well as low-calorie hot chocolate made with dark chocolate and low-fat milk. You can also try hot coffee, but be mindful of added sweeteners and creamers that can increase the calorie count.
When choosing a low-calorie hot drink, consider the ingredients and their nutritional values. For example, a cup of hot tea typically contains 0-2 calories, while a cup of hot coffee can range from 0-10 calories. Low-calorie hot chocolate, on the other hand, can range from 50-100 calories per cup, depending on the type of chocolate and milk used.
How can I make a low-calorie hot chocolate?
To make a low-calorie hot chocolate, start by using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content. This type of chocolate is not only lower in calories but also richer in flavor, so you can use less of it. Next, choose a low-fat milk such as almond milk, soy milk, or skim milk to reduce the calorie count. You can also add a sweetener like stevia or honey, but use it sparingly to keep the calorie count low.
When making your low-calorie hot chocolate, be mindful of portion sizes. A standard cup of hot chocolate can range from 8-12 ounces, so adjust the amount of chocolate and milk accordingly. You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to add flavor without adding calories. By making a few simple adjustments, you can enjoy a delicious and low-calorie hot chocolate that’s perfect for any time of day.
What are the benefits of drinking hot tea?
Drinking hot tea has numerous benefits, including antioxidant properties that can help protect against cell damage and reduce the risk of certain diseases. Hot tea has also been shown to improve heart health by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Additionally, hot tea can help boost your immune system and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
In addition to its physical health benefits, hot tea can also have a calming effect on the mind and body. The act of sipping a warm cup of tea can be meditative, helping to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Whether you prefer green tea, black tea, or herbal tea, there’s a type of hot tea that’s sure to suit your taste preferences and provide a range of health benefits.
Can I add flavorings to my low-calorie hot drinks?
Yes, you can add flavorings to your low-calorie hot drinks, but be mindful of the ingredients and their nutritional values. For example, adding a slice of lemon or a cinnamon stick to your hot tea can add flavor without adding calories. You can also try using extracts like vanilla or almond to add flavor to your hot chocolate or coffee.
When adding flavorings, be sure to choose options that are low in calories and added sugars. Avoid using flavored syrups or creamers, which can be high in calories and sugar. Instead, opt for natural flavorings like spices, herbs, or citrus fruits to add flavor to your low-calorie hot drinks.
How can I make my low-calorie hot drinks more festive?
To make your low-calorie hot drinks more festive, try adding a few festive spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, or cloves to your hot tea or hot chocolate. You can also use holiday-themed mugs or add a candy cane to your hot chocolate for a fun and festive touch. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making a low-calorie hot buttered rum by mixing hot tea with a small amount of rum and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Another way to make your low-calorie hot drinks more festive is to serve them at a holiday party or gathering. Consider setting up a hot drink bar with different toppings and flavorings, such as whipped cream, chocolate chips, or caramel sauce. This will allow your guests to customize their own hot drinks and add a fun and festive touch to your holiday celebration.
Can I drink low-calorie hot drinks on a diet?
Yes, you can drink low-calorie hot drinks on a diet, but be mindful of the ingredients and their nutritional values. When choosing a low-calorie hot drink, consider the calorie count and make sure it fits within your daily calorie goals. You can also use low-calorie hot drinks as a way to boost your metabolism and help with weight loss.
When drinking low-calorie hot drinks on a diet, be sure to pay attention to portion sizes and ingredients. Avoid adding large amounts of sugar, cream, or syrup, which can greatly increase the calorie count. Instead, opt for natural sweeteners like stevia or honey, and choose low-fat milk or non-dairy alternatives to reduce the calorie count.
Are low-calorie hot drinks suitable for everyone?
Low-calorie hot drinks are generally suitable for most people, but there are some exceptions. For example, people with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or heart disease, may need to limit their caffeine intake. Additionally, pregnant or breastfeeding women may need to avoid certain ingredients like caffeine or chocolate.
When consuming low-calorie hot drinks, be sure to listen to your body and pay attention to any adverse reactions. If you experience jitters, anxiety, or an irregular heartbeat after consuming a low-calorie hot drink, it may be a sign that you need to reduce your caffeine intake or avoid certain ingredients. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your diet or health.