When choosing drinks at Starbucks during pregnancy, it’s important to consider a few key factors:
Caffeine Intake: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women limit their caffeine intake to less than 200 mg per day. This is roughly equivalent to:
- Two small cups (8 ounces each) of strong coffee.
- Three cups of green tea
- Two shots of espresso
- Three to four cups of black tea (depending on the origin and preparation)
- Five cans of cola (12 ounces each)
Sugar Content: Be mindful of the sugar content in your drinks, as excessive sugar can have negative health effects.
Potentially Harmful Ingredients: Avoid drinks with ingredients that could be harmful during pregnancy.
Considering these factors, you can make safer choices when selecting your Starbucks beverages.
Here’s a list of 13 safe Starbucks drinks for pregnancy, keeping these considerations in mind:
Tips:
It’s best to avoid Starbucks passion tea because it contains hibiscus, which can increase the risk of miscarriage.
Also, steer clear of any teas with licorice, like peach tranquillity, as licorice can increase the risk of birth defects and neurological issues.
13 Safe Starbucks Drinks for Pregnancy
1. White Hot Chocolate
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If you’re looking for a cozy, pregnancy-friendly drink, try a white hot chocolate with 2 pumps of white mocha and 2 pumps of brown sugar, made with oat milk and cinnamon steamed in.
This can be your go-to winter drink, especially on those closing shifts since it has no caffeine.
It’s warm, sweet, and comforting—perfect for those chilly days.
If you prefer it cold, you can have it made with cold milk the same way.
2. Carmel apple cider
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If you love apple pies, you’ll definitely enjoy the caramel apple cider. It’s made with hot apple juice, cinnamon dolce syrup, whipped cream, and a drizzle of caramel.
This drink is like a warm hug in a cup and perfect for those chilly days.
It’s sweet, comforting, and completely caffeine-free, making it a great choice for pregnancy.
3. Decaf iced latte with coconut milk
A decaf iced latte with coconut milk is a refreshing and pregnancy-friendly drink.
It’s perfect if you want to enjoy the taste of coffee without the caffeine. The coconut milk adds a creamy, tropical twist that makes it extra special.
Just ask for a decaf iced latte and swap the regular milk for coconut milk.
It’s a simple change that makes a big difference. This drink is light, delicious, and a great way to treat yourself while keeping things safe for you and your baby.
4. London fog
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When you’re pregnant, finding a comforting and safe drink can be a treat.
Try a grande London Fog with one pump of raspberry. This drink has some caffeine, but it’s much lower than coffee, making it a safer option during pregnancy.
The blend of Earl Grey tea, steamed milk, and a hint of raspberry can be your daily indulgence, something to look forward to each morning.
If you’re worried about caffeine, you can always substitute with a caffeine-free tea.
5. Caramel Ribbon Crunch Cream Frappuccino
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If you’re craving something sweet and indulgent, try a caramel ribbon crunch cream frappuccino.
This drink blends buttery caramel syrup with milk and ice, then tops it off with dark caramel sauce, whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and a crunchy caramel-sugar topping.
It’s oh-so-beautifully delicious!
I usually go for a grande or tall size and always ask for extra crunch and drizzle.
This caffeine-free treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth during pregnancy.
6. Iced matcha tea latte
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If you’re looking for a refreshing and pregnancy-friendly drink, try an iced matcha tea latte.
Ask for light ice, a touch of vanilla, and vanilla sweet cream cold foam on top.
This drink is perfect if you love sweet things, but if you don’t, you can skip the vanilla.
The matcha gives it a nice earthy flavor, and it still tastes great even if it sits for a bit. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a cool, caffeine-free treat during your pregnancy.
7. Blended Strawberry Lemonade
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This refreshing drink combines the zing of lemonade with a hint of delicious strawberry flavor, all blended with ice.
It’s light, fresh, and perfect for putting a little zip in your step. This caffeine-free beverage is a great choice during pregnancy when you want something cool and tasty.
8. Iced Golden Ginger Drink
If you’re looking for a cool and creamy drink with a bit of a kick, try the Iced Golden Ginger Drink.
This refreshing beverage combines a golden ginger blend with turmeric essence, pineapple and ginger flavors, coconut milk, and ice.
It’s hand-shaken to perfection, making it a delightful treat to inspire your day.
Plus, it’s caffeine-free, so it’s a great choice during pregnancy. Enjoy this unique and tasty drink whenever you need a little pick-me-up!
9. Iced Guava Passionfruit Drink
This drink combines a guava juice blend with hints of passionfruit, pineapple, and ginger. It’s hand-shaken with coconut milk and ice, making it smooth and creamy.
Perfect for uplifting your day, this delicious beverage is caffeine-free and a great choice during pregnancy.
Tips for Ordering at Starbucks During Pregnancy
- Limit caffeine: Choose decaf options or naturally caffeine-free drinks.
- Reduce sugar: Ask for fewer pumps of syrup or use sugar-free alternatives.
- Check ingredients: Make sure no herbs that are unsafe during pregnancy (like some found in teas) are included.
- Hydrate: Opt for hydrating choices like water-based drinks or those with coconut milk.
- Moderate dairy: If you can’t have dairy or are avoiding it, choose lactose-free or plant-based milk options.
Consulting with your healthcare provider about your diet, including caffeine and sugar intake, is always a good idea during pregnancy.