Previous studies have found that gourmet coffee beverages (GCBs) contribute to weight gain, but female college students may be at particular risk—especially if they choose whole-fat over nonfat options. 

Researchers from the Simmons College Department of Nutrition in Boston studied how often college women indulge in GCBs, as well as how these drinks affect overall caloric intake. 

Most of the study’s participants—predominantly Caucasians in their 20s, of normal body weight—averaged 2.5 GCBs per week. 

Almost 75% of the women who chose hot drinks and 64% of those who opted for cold drinks purchased 10- to 16-oz. GCBs. Frozen beverages were often larger. 

A single drink’s calorie count ranged from 180 to 500, with 6 to 72 grams of sugar. 

“A significant percentage of college women consume GCBs, which contributes additional [calories] and fat to dietary intake,” the researchers concluded. “Over time, this could potentially affect weight status.”