Is the Matcha Latte At Starbucks Healthy?

Matcha is a type of green tea made from the leaves of Camellia sinensis, a species of evergreen shrub native to China and Japan. It has been used as a medicinal and culinary ingredient in East Asia for centuries. In recent years, it has gained popularity in the Western world, particularly among health-conscious consumers. Starbucks has jumped on the trend, offering its own version of the matcha latte.

What Is a Matcha Latte?

A matcha latte is a beverage made with matcha powder, steamed milk, and sweetener. It is typically served hot, but some cafes may offer a cold version as well. Starbucks’ version is made with a combination of matcha powder, steamed milk, and classic syrup, according to the company’s website. The syrup is typically made from sugar, water, and natural flavors.

Nutrition Facts

The nutrition facts for a grande (16-ounce) matcha latte from Starbucks are as follows:

Calories: 140
Total fat: 2.5 g
Saturated fat: 1.5 g
Trans fat: 0 g
Cholesterol: 10 mg
Sodium: 150 mg
Total carbohydrates: 25 g
Dietary fiber: 0 g
Sugars: 24 g
Protein: 6 g

Health Benefits

Matcha powder is a concentrated form of green tea, meaning it contains more beneficial compounds than regular green tea. One of these compounds is called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which is a type of polyphenol with potent antioxidant properties. Studies suggest that EGCG may help reduce inflammation, lower the risk of heart disease, and protect against certain types of cancer.

Matcha powder may also help boost metabolism and aid in weight loss. One study found that people who ingested green tea extract, including matcha powder, burned more calories than those who did not. Additionally, matcha powder is high in fiber, which can help keep you feeling full for longer and reduce cravings for unhealthy foods.

Drawbacks

Although Starbucks’ matcha latte is made with matcha powder, it also contains classic syrup, which is high in added sugars. Consuming too much added sugar has been linked to an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions. It is important to note that a grande matcha latte from Starbucks contains 24 grams of added sugar — that’s 6 teaspoons (24 grams) of added sugar in one drink.

Therefore, if you’re looking to get the health benefits of matcha powder without the added sugar, you may want to opt for a plain matcha latte or make your own at home. Alternatively, you could order a matcha latte from Starbucks and request it without the syrup.

Bottom Line

Matcha powder is a concentrated form of green tea with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It may also help boost metabolism and aid in weight loss. However, Starbucks’ version of the matcha latte contains 24 grams of added sugar, which can offset any potential health benefits.

If you’re looking for a healthful matcha latte, it may be best to make your own at home or order it without the syrup when ordering from Starbucks.