Starbucks’ ”Medicine Ball”: A Comforting Brew for Cold Season
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As cold and flu season hits the U.S., many are turning to comforting beverages for relief.Among the most popular is Starbucks’ Honey Citrus Mint Tea, affectionately known as the “Medicine Ball.” This isn’t just any tea; its reputation precedes it.
Initially a secret menu item, the “Medicine Ball” gained such widespread popularity that Starbucks officially added it to their menu in 2017. A Starbucks spokesperson explained, “The drink, once a ‘secret menu item,’ became so popular that it was added to the official menu in 2017 under the name ‘Honey Citrus Mint Tea.'”
The drink itself is a delightful blend of Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea and Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea, enhanced with steamed lemonade and a touch of honey.While the Starbucks website details its composition, itS vital to note the sweetness; a grande size contains 30 grams of sugar.
Registered dietitian and nutritionist Kelsey Kunik offers a unique perspective. “This is one of my favorite recipes to help fight runny noses and soothe sore throats in the winter thanks to the combination of honey and teafig greens,” she shared with Fox News Digital. Kunik, who contributes to the “Graciously Nourished” website, highlights the health benefits.
She explains that green tea “contains natural antioxidants that support a healthy immune system,” while the addition of peppermint tea (a common variation) can help soothe congested sinuses. Furthermore, she notes that “Honey also acts as a natural cough suppressant and throat soother.”
While the “Medicine Ball” offers a comforting and potentially beneficial blend of ingredients, it’s crucial to remember that it’s not a replacement for medical advice. For serious illnesses, consulting a healthcare professional is always recommended. Tho, for those seeking a soothing and flavorful beverage during cold and flu season, Starbucks’ Honey Citrus Mint Tea might just be the perfect pick-me-up.
Boost Your Immunity with Flavorful Homemade Teas
In today’s fast-paced world, finding simple ways to improve your health and well-being is crucial. One easy and delicious method? Crafting your own immunity-boosting teas at home.Not only does this give you control over ingredients and sugar content, but it also allows for creative flavor combinations tailored to your preferences.
According to a recent Fox News article, making drinks at home “gives you more control over the ingredients.” This is notably beneficial when aiming to reduce sugar consumption. One simple strategy is to “use light lemonade” or even just a squeeze of lemon in hot water as a refreshing alternative to sugary beverages.
Tea Inspired by Medicine Balls: A Refreshing Recipe
Ingredients:
- 6 ounces lemonade
- 6 ounces water
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 cup green tea with peach (The Tea Pig brand is recommended)
- 1 cup peppermint tea (optional, The Tea Pig brand is also recommended)
This recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors, combining the tartness of lemonade with the soothing properties of green and peppermint teas. The honey adds a touch of sweetness while providing additional health benefits. Feel free to adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences.
remember, incorporating these simple homemade tea recipes into your daily routine can be a delicious and effective way to boost your immunity and maintain a healthier lifestyle. Experiment with different tea varieties and flavor combinations to discover your perfect blend!
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Control Your Sugar intake with This delicious Two-Tea Blend
Looking for a delicious and healthy way to curb your sugar cravings? Registered Dietitian Nutritionist kelsey Kunik offers a simple, yet effective, solution: a refreshing two-tea blend that lets you control your sugar intake.
“one nutritionist said you can control the amount of sugar you consume by making this tea at home,” Kunik explains, emphasizing the power of homemade beverages in managing sugar consumption.
A Refreshing Two-Tea Recipe
- Warm the Base: Gently warm 6 ounces of lemonade in a mug by microwaving for 30 to 60 seconds.
- Steep the Green Tea: Add 6 ounces of nearly boiling water to a mug and steep one Tea Pig green tea and peach bag for 5 minutes. This provides a delightful fruity base.
- Add Peppermint: After 3 minutes, introduce a Tea Pig peppermint tea bag to the mix and let it steep for the remaining 2 minutes. The peppermint adds a refreshing twist.
- Sweeten to Taste: Stir in a tablespoon of honey. Adjust the amount to your preferred sweetness level.
This simple recipe allows for personalized sweetness,empowering you to manage your sugar intake effectively. The combination of green tea, peach, and peppermint creates a soothing and flavorful beverage perfect for any time of day.
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This recipe was shared with Fox News Digital.
By Christine Rousselle, Lifestyle Reporter, Fox News digital
Sip Your Way to Wellness: Homemade Teas For the Cold Season
As cold adn flu season approaches, many people are looking for comforting and naturally immunity-boosting remedies.And while starbucks’ popular “Medicine Ball” offers a soothing blend of flavors, crafting your own teas at home allows for greater control over ingredients and sweetness levels. Today,we sit down with Dr. Amber Lee, a Naturopathic Doctor and Tea Specialist, to explore the health benefits of tea and discover some appetizing recipes perfect for the colder months.
Senior Editor – World-Today-News.com:
Dr. Lee, thanks for joining us today. Let’s start by discussing the ”Medicine Ball” phenomenon. Its gained immense popularity, and it seems people really crave those comforting flavors when thay’re feeling under the weather.
Dr. Amber Lee:
Yes,the “Medicine Ball” certainly captures the essence of comforting warmth and soothing sensations we often seek when we’re not feeling our best. There’s a reason why this drink resonates so strongly with people. The combination of green tea, citrus, honey, and warmth can provide a sense of relief.
Senior Editor:
Many people appreciate its natural ingredients. Can you elaborate on the specific health benefits these ingredients offer?
Dr. Amber lee:
Absolutely! Green tea, for example, is rich in antioxidants which help support the immune system. Citrus fruits are packed with Vitamin C, another important immune booster. Honey is known for its soothing properties and can help coat and soothe a sore throat. Using these natural ingredients is a fantastic way to nourish the body while you’re recovering.
Senior Editor: You mentioned the benefits of making tea at home. what are some advantages to crafting your own blends?
Dr. Amber lee:
Homemade teas offer complete control over ingredients and sweetness.You can adjust the ratios to your liking and avoid added sugars or preservatives often found in commercial drinks. This is particularly important for those watching their sugar intake or who have dietary restrictions.
Senior Editor: That’s a key point. Many pre-made drinks can be surprisingly high in sugar. Let’s explore some recipes. do you have any favorites fortifying our immune systems during cold season?
Dr.Amber Lee: I love a simple yet powerful blend:
“Ginger Citrus Burst”
1 cup hot water
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
1/2 lemon, juiced
1 teaspoon raw honey (or to taste)
* Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
This combination is a warming powerhouse.ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe nausea. Lemon provides Vitamin C, and the cayenne pepper adds a delightful kick and may temporarily open up nasal passages.
Senior Editor:
That sounds delicious and truly comforting. Thank you so much,Dr. Lee, for sharing your expertise and these wonderful recipes.We hope our readers enjoy trying them out this cold season.
Dr. Amber Lee:
My pleasure! Stay healthy and warm everyone!
