Is Starbucks Iced Matcha Latte Healthy?

What is an Iced Matcha Latte?

An Iced Matcha Latte is a type of green tea latte made from matcha powder. It is made from a blend of matcha green tea powder and a milk of your choice, usually either almond or soy milk. It is usually served over ice, which gives it its signature cooling effect. The flavor is earthy and slightly sweet, with a hint of grassy notes. The drink has become increasingly popular in recent years, and can be found at many coffee shops, including Starbucks.

Nutritional Profile of Starbucks Iced Matcha Latte

A Grande size Starbucks Iced Matcha Latte made with almond milk is around 160 calories. It contains 16 grams of total carbohydrates, 13 of which are sugars. It also has 10 grams of fat and 6 grams of protein. It contains no cholesterol or sodium. It has 4% of the daily recommended value of calcium and 8% of the daily recommended value of iron.

Health Benefits of Matcha Green Tea Powder

Matcha green tea powder is made from finely ground green tea leaves. It is packed with antioxidants, which are beneficial compounds that help protect the body from free radicals. They can help reduce inflammation, protect cells from damage, and improve overall health. Additionally, matcha green tea powder contains a unique type of antioxidant called catechins, which have been linked to a lower risk of certain cancers. Matcha powder is also a source of caffeine, which can help increase alertness and energy levels.

Are There Any Negative Health Effects?

The main potential downside of an Iced Matcha Latte is the high sugar content. While the drink does contain beneficial antioxidants from the matcha powder, the added sugar could be a cause for concern. Additionally, the drink contains caffeine, which can have a negative effect if consumed in large amounts. Too much caffeine can cause anxiety, insomnia, and digestive issues. Therefore, it is important to consume the drink in moderation.

Conclusion

Overall, Starbucks Iced Matcha Latte is a tasty and refreshing drink that can provide some potential health benefits from its matcha green tea powder content. However, it also contains high amounts of sugar and caffeine, so it is important to consume it in moderation. If you are looking for a healthier option, you can opt for unsweetened matcha green tea powder with almond milk.