11 Silent Calorie Traps: What You're Drinking This Season (and How to Fix It)

3. Peppermint Mocha and Minty Holiday Lattes

Peppermint mocha blends two tempting components—chocolate and mint—so it’s easy to forget you’re drinking what amounts to a liquid dessert. Syrups and mocha sauce contribute concentrated sugar and calories, and seasonal indulgence can quickly become habitual. If you love the mint-chocolate combo, small changes preserve the sensation while cutting back. Ask for fewer pumps of syrup or request sugar-free peppermint if available. Try an Americano with a splash of milk and one pump of peppermint for a similar flavor profile with far fewer calories. At home, make a warm cocoa with unsweetened cocoa powder and a peppermint tea bag steeped into the milk for natural mint notes. Sipping a smaller cup more slowly can also heighten satisfaction, so one small serving feels like enough. These practical swaps keep the ritual and the taste front and center—while protecting your overall daily calorie balance.

4. Eggnog

Eggnog is a holiday classic that leans heavily on richness: cream, egg yolks, and sugar are central to its texture and flavor. That richness is pronounced even in a modest serving, yet because eggnog is seasonal and festive, people may treat it as a one-off and pour a larger glass than they intend. For those who enjoy eggnog’s unique profile, there are ways to savor the flavor without a full caloric hit. Make a lighter batch at home using low-fat milk, reduced sugar, and an egg substitute or an extra splash of milk to keep the mouthfeel. If you’re ordering or buying premade eggnog, choose a small portion and savor it slowly—treat it like dessert, not a beverage to sip while doing other things. Another option: split a small serving with a friend or pair a single cup with a protein-rich snack so the drink feels satisfying. These approachable strategies honor tradition but help you keep daily calories in check.