Pumpkin spice lattes, apple crisp macchiatos, and chai lattes may conjure up all kinds of images for you. You can't think of fall or winter without at least acknowledging these drinks exist. Caroline Brundage, a dietetic intern with OSF Healthcare says to be careful with these drinks as they contain added sugar.  Some drinks she says have 50 grams or more of added sugar.  Brundage says more coffee shop drinks have higher levels of saturated fat which can cause weight gain. 

Brundage says that you should do your research before getting hooked on a sugary drink such as checking out the nutritional information and looking for added sugar, carbohydrates, and saturated fat.  If you're purchasing on an app, you can customize your drink.  Brundage says that customizing your drink by doing things like skipping toppings and going with almond milk can help with calories. 

Another option you have is to make your drinks at home.  This way, Brundage says you can know exactly how much of each ingredient is in your drink.

Brundage says if you commit to a healthy diet and exercise, getting a once-a-week sugary drink reward isn't a huge concern.  If you get a coffee a few times a week, however, she says to consider swapping ingredients, purchasing a smaller size, making the drink at home, or cutting back on the number of drinks can help. 

See your primary care physician or dietitian for more information on dieting and how to enjoy your drinks.