When you’re feeling under the weather with a cold, a warm and comforting beverage from Starbucks can be just what the doctor ordered. The coffee giant offers a wide range of drinks that can help alleviate your symptoms and provide a much-needed pick-me-up. In this article, we’ll explore the best options to get at Starbucks when you have a cold, from soothing teas to revitalizing coffee drinks.
Understanding the Benefits of Certain Ingredients
Before we dive into the specific drinks you should consider, it’s essential to understand the benefits of certain ingredients that can help combat a cold. Ginger, for example, has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce congestion and soothe a sore throat. Honey is another ingredient that’s rich in antioxidants and has antibacterial properties, making it an excellent addition to your drink. Green tea is also a great option, as it’s high in antioxidants and can help boost your immune system.
Teas to Try
Starbucks offers a variety of teas that can help alleviate cold symptoms. One of the best options is the Chai Tea Latte, which combines black tea with spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom. The combination of these ingredients can help reduce congestion and warm up your body. Another great option is the London Fog Tea Latte, which features earl grey tea, steamed milk, and vanilla syrup. The bergamot oil in the earl grey tea can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms like a sore throat.
A Closer Look at Herbal Teas
If you’re looking for a caffeine-free option, Starbucks’ herbal teas are a great choice. The Peach Citrus White Tea Infusion is a soothing and flavorful option that’s high in antioxidants and can help calm a sore throat. The Mint Majesty Tea is another great option, as the menthol in the peppermint can help ease congestion and reduce coughing.
Coffee Drinks to Consider
While tea is often the go-to choice when you’re feeling under the weather, certain coffee drinks can also be beneficial. The Caffè Latte is a great option, as the combination of espresso and steamed milk can help provide a much-needed energy boost. You can also ask for a shot of honey to be added to your latte, which can help soothe a sore throat and provide antibacterial benefits.
Customizing Your Drink
One of the best things about Starbucks is the ability to customize your drink to your liking. If you’re feeling under the weather, consider asking for a few modifications to your drink. Extra honey can be added to provide additional antibacterial benefits, while whipped cream can help soothe a sore throat. You can also ask for your drink to be made with steamed milk instead of foam, which can be easier to drink when you’re congested.
Avoiding Certain Ingredients
While certain ingredients can be beneficial when you have a cold, there are others that you should avoid. Dairy products can be mucous-producing, which can exacerbate congestion and make your symptoms worse. Sugar can also be a problem, as it can suppress the immune system and reduce the effectiveness of your body’s natural defenses. Opt for non-dairy milk alternatives like almond or soy milk, and ask for less or no sugar in your drink.
Additional Tips for Feeling Better
In addition to getting the right drink at Starbucks, there are several other things you can do to help alleviate your cold symptoms. Staying hydrated is essential, as it can help thin out mucous and reduce congestion. Getting plenty of rest is also crucial, as it can help your body recover from the infection. Using a humidifier can also be beneficial, as it can help add moisture to the air and reduce congestion.
Natural Remedies to Try
There are several natural remedies that you can try in addition to getting a drink at Starbucks. Elderberry syrup has been shown to have antiviral properties and can help reduce the severity of cold symptoms. Echinacea is another herb that’s often used to boost the immune system and reduce the risk of illness. Steam inhalation can also be beneficial, as it can help loosen mucous and reduce congestion.
| Drink | Ingredients | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Chai Tea Latte | Black tea, ginger, cinnamon, cardamom | Reduces congestion, soothes sore throat |
| Earl grey tea, steamed milk, vanilla syrup | Reduces inflammation, alleviates sore throat |
Conclusion
When you’re feeling under the weather with a cold, a warm and comforting drink from Starbucks can be just what you need to feel better. By understanding the benefits of certain ingredients and customizing your drink to your liking, you can help alleviate your symptoms and provide a much-needed pick-me-up. Remember to stay hydrated, get plenty of rest, and try natural remedies like elderberry syrup and steam inhalation to help your body recover from the infection. With the right drink and a little bit of self-care, you can be back to your normal self in no time.
What are the best Starbucks drinks to order when I have a cold?
When you’re feeling under the weather, a warm and comforting drink from Starbucks can be just what you need to help soothe your symptoms. Some of the best drinks to order when you have a cold include hot teas like the Peach Citrus White Tea or the Chai Tea Latte, which can help to ease congestion and calm a sore throat. You can also opt for a hot coffee drink like the Caramel Macchiato or the Caffè Latte, which can provide a much-needed energy boost to help you power through your day.
In addition to these drinks, you may also want to consider adding an extra shot of espresso or a pump or two of peppermint syrup to help clear out your sinuses and give you an extra kick. If you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, you could also try a warm and comforting drink like the Hot Chocolate or the London Fog, which can provide a soothing and calming pick-me-up without being too overwhelming. Whatever you choose, be sure to ask your barista to make it extra hot, as the steam can help to loosen up any congestion and provide additional relief from your cold symptoms.
Can I customize my Starbucks drink to help alleviate my cold symptoms?
Yes, you can definitely customize your Starbucks drink to help alleviate your cold symptoms. One way to do this is to ask your barista to add a squeeze of fresh lemon or a pump or two of honey syrup to your drink, which can help to soothe a sore throat and provide an extra boost of vitamin C. You can also ask for your drink to be made with steamed milk instead of regular milk, which can help to add an extra layer of warmth and comfort to your drink. If you’re feeling really congested, you could also try asking for a drink with a splash of Citrus Refresher, which can help to provide a refreshing and invigorating pick-me-up.
Another way to customize your drink is to ask your barista to hold the whipped cream or extra foam, which can be difficult to digest when you’re feeling under the weather. You can also ask for your drink to be made with a non-dairy milk alternative, such as almond or soy milk, which can be easier on your stomach and provide a lower-calorie option. By customizing your drink to your specific needs and preferences, you can help to ensure that you get the most benefit from your Starbucks drink and start feeling better in no time. Remember to always ask your barista for their recommendations, as they may have some insider knowledge on the best ways to customize your drink for cold relief.
Are there any Starbucks food items that can help alleviate cold symptoms?
Yes, there are several Starbucks food items that can help alleviate cold symptoms. One of the best options is the oatmeal, which can provide a warm and comforting bowl of goodness to help soothe a sore throat and calm a queasy stomach. You can also try the yogurt parfait, which can provide a boost of protein and calcium to help support your immune system and keep you feeling full and satisfied. Additionally, the fruit and cheese plate can be a great option, as it provides a light and refreshing snack that’s easy to digest and packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
Another great option is the Cranberry Bliss Bar, which is a sweet and tangy pastry that’s packed with dried cranberries and white chocolate. The cranberries are a great source of vitamin C, which can help to boost your immune system and fight off infection. You can also try the butter croissant or the blueberry muffin, which can provide a warm and comforting treat to help lift your spirits and provide a much-needed energy boost. Whatever you choose, be sure to opt for something that’s easy to eat and won’t exacerbate your cold symptoms, such as a dry or scratchy throat.
Can I get a refund or replacement if my Starbucks drink doesn’t help my cold symptoms?
If you’re not satisfied with your Starbucks drink or feel that it didn’t help alleviate your cold symptoms, you can definitely ask your barista about a refund or replacement. Starbucks has a customer satisfaction guarantee, which means that they will work with you to ensure that you’re happy with your drink and provide a refund or replacement if necessary. However, it’s worth noting that Starbucks drinks are not a substitute for medical treatment, and if your symptoms persist or worsen, you should seek medical attention from a qualified healthcare professional.
To request a refund or replacement, simply ask your barista and explain the situation. They will work with you to determine the best solution, whether that’s a refund, a replacement drink, or a modification to your original order. Be sure to be polite and respectful, and provide as much detail as possible about your drink and your symptoms. By doing so, you can help to ensure that you get the best possible outcome and can enjoy your Starbucks drink with confidence. Remember to always prioritize your health and well-being, and seek medical attention if your symptoms persist or worsen over time.
Are there any specific ingredients or additives that I should avoid when I have a cold?
Yes, there are several ingredients or additives that you may want to avoid when you have a cold. One of the main things to avoid is dairy, as it can be difficult to digest and may exacerbate congestion and other cold symptoms. You may also want to avoid adding extra sugar or cream to your drink, as these can be difficult to digest and may provide a quick energy boost but ultimately leave you feeling worse. Additionally, you may want to avoid drinks that are high in caffeine, as these can dehydrate you and worsen cold symptoms like headaches and fatigue.
Another thing to avoid is adding flavorings or syrups that are high in sugar or artificial ingredients, as these can be difficult to digest and may provide a quick energy boost but ultimately leave you feeling worse. Instead, opt for natural ingredients like lemon, honey, or ginger, which can provide a soothing and calming effect without exacerbating your cold symptoms. You can also ask your barista to hold the whipped cream or extra foam, which can be difficult to digest and may provide a quick energy boost but ultimately leave you feeling worse. By being mindful of the ingredients and additives in your drink, you can help to ensure that you get the most benefit from your Starbucks drink and start feeling better in no time.
Can I use my Starbucks rewards points to get a free drink when I have a cold?
Yes, you can definitely use your Starbucks rewards points to get a free drink when you have a cold. In fact, redeeming your rewards points for a free drink can be a great way to treat yourself to a warm and comforting beverage when you’re feeling under the weather. Simply log in to your Starbucks rewards account, check your balance, and redeem your points for a free drink of your choice. You can choose from a variety of drinks, including hot teas, coffee drinks, and refreshers, and even customize your drink with extra shots of espresso or pumps of syrup.
To redeem your rewards points, simply ask your barista or use the Starbucks mobile app to place your order. Be sure to have your rewards account information handy, as you’ll need to provide your account details to complete the transaction. Once you’ve redeemed your points, you can enjoy your free drink and start feeling better in no time. Remember to always check your rewards balance and redeem your points before they expire, as this can help you get the most value from your Starbucks rewards program and enjoy free drinks and other perks all year round. By using your rewards points to get a free drink when you have a cold, you can help to brighten your day and feel a little better, even when you’re not feeling your best.