This Is Why That PSL Is Doing More Harm Than Good

It’s Fall, ya’ll! That time of year when Pumpkin Spice Lattes (PSL) flood your local coffee shops and IG feeds. But have you ever stopped and thought about what’s really in them? Spoiler alert: they’re not as cozy as they seem. 

While we all love the idea of a warming PSL on a cool morning, the truth is that these mass-produced pumpkin-flavored (hint: “flavored”) drinks are loaded with chemicals, artificial ingredients, and sky-high amounts of sugar. And the sugar-free versions? Those are even WORSE. Plus, 90% of these PSL don’t even have actual pumpkin in them. Crazy, right?!

Here’s exactly what you're sippin’ on and how you can still get your PSL fix — the clean way.

What’s Really in That PSL?

Big chain coffee shops might make your favorite fall drink, but when you look closer at their ingredient lists, the picture isn’t so sweet. No real spices, tons of sugar, and not an once of actual pumpkin. Are we being scammed????

Here’s a closer look at what’s hiding in those PSL:

• Grande PSL: 50 grams of sugar (that’s 12.5 teaspoons!) and a long list of additives like potassium sorbate (a preservative), carrageenan (linked to gut inflammation), and a bunch of artificial flavors.
• DD PSL: 55 grams of sugar in a medium, plus high fructose corn syrup, artificial colors like caramel color, and preservatives that you’d never expect in a simple cup of coffee.

So, What’s the Big Deal?

We get it, PSL season is tempting, but all those artificial ingredients and massive sugar spikes can have a real impact on your health. 

Artificial flavors and preservatives are synthetic, which means your body doesn’t recognize them as real food. Things like caramel color and potassium sorbate may be common in processed foods, but they’ve been linked to health concerns like inflammation and even increased risk of disease.

On top of that you’re probably also getting a sugar overload. With around 50 gr in each drink, these lattes are a major reason for blood sugar spikes and crashes. Not to mention, excessive sugar consumption is linked to weight gain, poor energy levels, and even long-term issues like diabetes. Even the ‘sugar free’ options are still full of chemically processed artificial sweeteners. 

And let’s not forget there’s no actual pumpkin in most of these drinks! The "pumpkin" flavor you love? It comes from artificial flavorings and a spice mix that’s often not even organic. 

The Alternative: Make Your Own PSL

So, how do you enjoy that taste of fall without the harmful ingredients? Make your own! It’s easier than you think, and if you use better-for-you ingredients, you can still enjoy that cozy PSL feel without the chemicals. 

The secret? Using REAL ingredients like natural sugars, actual pumpkin, and real spices. Who would have thought that would be the big secret — but thanks to big food corporations, it really is that simple. 

Real Ingredients? Game-Changers

THIS is how you make that PSL actually taste (and feel) good:

• mNectar: An organic, naturally sweet, low-glycemic (GI of just 35) sugar alternative made of coconut sap powder. Unlike high-heat processed sweeteners, it keeps the natural minerals from coconut blossoms through a unique low-temperature dehydration process. It won’t spike your blood sugar and offers the added benefits of being rich in essential minerals like calcium, iron, zinc, and potassium.
• Real Pumpkin: Essentially a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as essential minerals like potassium and fiber. These nutrients support everything from immune health to digestion. Plus the flavor of real pumpkin is richer, deeper, and more authentic than its synthetic version.
• Organic Spices: Things like cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, and ginger come with natural health benefits. These spices are rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and important nutrients like manganese and calcium. Plus, when you use organic spices, you’re using ingredients grown without harmful pesticides or chemicals that can end up in your PSL.

DIY PSL Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of good, clean coffee (pro tip: look for a high elevation coffee that’s been tested for mycotoxins)
• 2 cups of raw goat milk, A2 cow milk, or plant milk
• 2 tablespoons organic pumpkin puree (or more to taste)
• 2 tablespoons of mNectar
• 1 teaspoon organic vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice powder or make your own with equal parts organic cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, clove.

Directions:

1. Brew your coffee based on the instructions and set aside.
2. Combine the milk and pumpkin on a saucepan over medium heat. Keep whisking until the mixture is warm but not boiling and the pumpkin is fully incorporated.
3. Add the mNectar, vanilla, and organic pumpkin pie spices. Whisk until fully combined.
4. If you like a frothy latte, you can use a handheld frother or whisk the milk mixture until it becomes foamy.
5. Pour the brewed coffee into your favorite mug and slowly add the spiced milk mixture. Stir gently to combine.
6. For an extra treat, sprinkle a little more pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top.