Do you feel that autumn chill creeping in? It’s not just the crisp air that’s a sign of the season; Starbucks is bringing back its Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) today, marking what many fans see as the unofficial start of fall. Sure, the official start of fall isn't until the autumn equinox on September 22, but the PSL’s return makes it feel like fall is already here.
If you're planning to indulge in this seasonal treat throughout the autumn months, you might want to take a closer look at what’s in your cup. Here’s everything you need to know about the PSL, from its history to its health impacts.
The Origins of the Pumpkin Spice Latte
Let’s dive into a bit of history. The Pumpkin Spice Latte, often shortened to PSL, was first introduced by Starbucks in 2003. The idea was to create a seasonal drink that built on the success of their Peppermint Mocha. This seasonal favorite combines espresso with a pumpkin pie spice sauce made from pumpkin puree, topped with whipped cream and a blend of spices like cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, and ginger. It’s designed to evoke the comforting flavors of a pumpkin pie, making it a perfect fit for the fall season.
Whether you adore the PSL for its cozy vibes or find it a bit overhyped, it’s clear the drink has cemented its place in pop culture. Thanks in part to social media, where fans share photos of their PSLs, the drink has become a symbol of fall. Starbucks even created a Twitter account for the PSL in 2014 to play into the growing hype.
The PSL’s success has spurred a wave of pumpkin spice-flavored products, from Oreos to body scrubs. However, none have reached the enduring popularity of the original Starbucks beverage.
But why does the PSL evoke such strong feelings? A 2021 study from Johns Hopkins University suggests that the spices in the PSL trigger feelings of nostalgia. Licensed therapist David Klow explains that humans have a natural inclination to seek new experiences while also craving routine. The PSL, which appears just once a year, taps into both desires, making it a seasonal must-have for many.
Is the Pumpkin Spice Latte Good for You?
So, is this seasonal treat a healthy addition to your diet? According to registered dietitian Sheri Gaw, the spices in the PSL, like cloves and cinnamon, are packed with antioxidants. Studies have shown that these spices can help lower the risk of various diseases, including cancer and heart disease. Ginger and nutmeg also offer health benefits, including protection against certain cancers and diabetes.
However, it’s not all good news. Along with the beneficial spices, the PSL is also loaded with sugar, saturated fat, and calories. A Grande Pumpkin Spice Latte from Starbucks contains 50 grams of sugar, 390 calories, and 14 grams of fat, with nine grams being saturated fat. While it does offer 14 grams of protein, the high sugar content and lack of fiber mean it’s more of a dessert than a nutritious drink.
The American Heart Association recommends that women limit their added sugar intake to 25 grams per day and men to 36 grams. Additionally, fat should constitute 25% to 35% of your daily calorie intake, with saturated fat limited to less than 7%. A PSL can quickly push you past these limits, especially if consumed regularly.
Moreover, a Grande PSL has 150 mg of caffeine, which might be an issue if you're not accustomed to drinking coffee regularly. The FDA suggests a maximum of 400 mg of caffeine per day, so having more than two PSLs could put you over that limit. If you're sensitive to caffeine, this could lead to issues like disrupted sleep or increased heart rate.
Tips for Enjoying a Healthier PSL
If you’re set on enjoying a PSL but want to make it a bit healthier, consider these tips. Dietitian Brittany Werner suggests treating PSLs as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily habit. Given their low nutritional value and high sugar content, they should be enjoyed as a special treat.
Dietitian Chris Mohr recommends asking your barista for a few substitutions to lighten up your PSL. Opting for skim milk can reduce the calorie and fat content, and requesting half the usual amount of syrup can cut down on the sugar while still giving you that pumpkin spice flavor.
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Conclusion
The Pumpkin Spice Latte season is here, and whether you love it or loathe it, it’s a staple of fall. While the PSL brings some health benefits thanks to its spices, it’s also packed with sugar, calories, and fat. Enjoying it in moderation and making a few tweaks can help you indulge in this autumn treat without derailing your health goals.
