Six Winter Drinks That Could Ruin Your Diet

After a long winter’s day of strolling the frozen, slushy streets of Boston, there’s nothing better than relaxing with a hot beverage. But before you sip, you may want to find out exactly what’s in your cup. In some cases, one small drink will replace all the calories you just burned working up your thirst.

Hot chocolate photo via Shutterstock

Hot chocolate
Calories: 220 in a small

It’s no surprise that this classic treat isn’t exactly a health food. A small, 10-ounce from Dunkin’ Donuts will set you back 220 calories, seven grams of fat, and 30 grams of sugar. Next time you indulge, better hold the whipped cream.

Mocha latte photo via Shutterstock

Mocha latte
Calories: 200 in a small

If your daily cup of joe has become so boring it’s putting you to sleep, a mocha might seem like a fun way to mix it up. But be warned: At Starbucks, a 12-ounce version of the chocolate pick-me-up made with 2 percent milk and no whipped cream packs on 200 calories and six grams of fat. How many calories are in a regular cup of coffee? A scant five.

Irish coffee photo via Shutterstock

Irish coffee
Calories: 210 on average

Between the caffeine and the alcohol, Irish coffee is sure to get you buzzed. But the intoxicating deliciousness comes at a price, to the tune of  210 calories and nine grams of fat.

Chai tea photo via Shutterstock

Chai tea latte
Calories: 190 in a small

This sweet, spiced tea is a go-to for the colder months, but don’t treat it as you would plain green or black tea. A 12-ounce Starbucks chai latte made with 2 percent milk has 190 calories, 3.5 grams of fat, and 32 grams of sugar.

Hot toddy photo via Shutterstock

Hot toddy
Calories: 150 on average

Because its base is usually either hot water or zero-calorie tea, a hot toddy is a better choice than drinks like egg nog and buttered rum. But don’t be fooled: The honey and bourbon in this winter cocktail pack a punch. An average toddy has about 150 calories in total, but if the bar is calling your name, this isn’t your worst choice.

Hot cider photo via Shutterstock

Hot cider
Calories: 120 in a small

If you’re counting calories, hot cider may be the way to go. On average, a 10-ounce cup has 120 calories, and a decent amount of vitamin C. Just get your sweet tooth ready, because this drink contains 31 grams of sugar.