October Challenge - Pumpkin Spice Latte Swap

THE PROBLEM:

Fall is in full swing and we all know what that means: obnoxiously large scarves, big cozy boots and my personal favourite: seasonal coffee drinks that taste like pie in a cup. Don't get me wrong: it's A-okay to satisfy your sweet tooth every once in awhile with a nice, steaming pumpkin spice latte or a frothy caramel frappuccino. However, downing one of these bad boys on the daily may not be the best idea if you've got some big fitness goals in mind.

THE INSIGHT:

Here's a nutritional breakdown of a grande Starbucks pumpkin spice latte:

Take note of the sugar content. Even erring on the side of caution by selecting nonfat milk and no whip, there's still a whopping 49 grams of refined sugar in one 16 oz. grande cup! This is more than the daily recommendation for sugar in one.foul.swoop.

Besides being calorie dense, refined sugar is also highly inflammatory to your body. This inflammation is similar to the kind you experience when you cut your finger, only it's happening inside, to the tissues in your body. Inflammation is a problem because it's one of the leading causes of diseases like diabetes, heart disease and even cancer. But here's perhaps a more relatable thought to chew on: chronic inflammation such as the kind caused by excess sugar consumption impairs your ability to burn fat by throwing off the balance of important fat burning hormones like leptin (your hunger regulating hormone) and insulin (your glucose regulating hormone).

THE CHALLENGE: This month your challenge is to stay away from those calorie packed fall drinks and make your own healthier version instead. Becoming your own barista is not only going to spare you a ton of calories, but a whole lot of cash too- ($4.50 x 5 days/week= $90/month to be exact). That's a pair of Lululemons if I'm not mistaken.

CHALLENGE DOWNLOAD:

Click here to download this healthy pumpkin spice latte recipe. It's a breeze to make, comes in at less than half the calories and is completely free of refined sugar.

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Let's keep the conversation going.

Share your thoughts on this yummy drink below!