May 4, 2012 | 2 minute read

In eNews, we review 30+ years of research on coffee and health, including cancer risk.  Many studies do point to potential health benefits of coffee, but today Americans can easily guzzle 14 teaspoons of sugar and more in a specialty coffee drink. The iced white chocolate mocha is a far cry from the basic cup of coffee packed with potential health-promoting phytochemicals.

Plain coffee has virtually no calories, so you may not think of a coffee shop concoction as a calorie splurge. But, add syrups, whipped cream and chocolate and pretty soon your drink has as many calories as a small meal. Substitute a sugary coffee drink for your usual unadorned coffee, and you may end up with extra pounds.

I’ve put together a line-up of iced coffee drinks based on Starbucks and Dunkin’ Donuts online nutrition information, using the popular 16 oz. size (Grande or Medium). By making smart choices, you can get a tasty, cold coffee beverage without breaking the calorie bank.

4. Iced skinny mocha – 100 calories (made with sugar free syrup)

5. Caramel mocha with cream – 260 calories (6 tsp added sugar)

If you like your coffee a little sweet, add a teaspoon or two of sugar yourself or get the sugar free syrups to keep calories down. Skim milk can add nutrition but adding the extra cream and whipped cream just adds extra fat.

What are your favorite coffee cooling beverages?