Lately, I’ve been trying to eat healthier and build a body I can feel proud of, but can we talk about how expensive healthy eating is?
This week, I’m challenging myself to cut calories while increasing protein (we’re going high-vibe, low-spend). I saw a bunch of protein coffee TikToks and thought:
“That’s cute… but I don’t drink coffee.”
What I do drink is matcha.
Why Matcha?
I’ve only ever had matcha from Starbucks, but to keep things budget-friendly, I decided to try making it myself at home.
Most recipes called for matcha + vanilla + milk, but I’m not a milk girl. I opted for unsweetened almond milk and hoped the protein powder would add enough sweetness. My goal was to create a drink that’s:
High in protein
Low in calories
Actually tastes good
And costs less than a Starbucks trip
Budget Breakdown
I wanted to spend less than $20.
I actually spent $47.40, but hear me out — I bought in bulk.
Here’s how it breaks down per serving:
Ingredient Servings Cost Cost/Serving
Matcha Powder 85 ~$25 $0.29
Protein Powder 16 ~$17 $1.06
Almond Milk 8 ~$3.50 $0.43
Total per drink: $1.78
185 calories | 19g protein
That’s cheaper than your favorite iced latte — and it’s giving health & glow.
Trial & Error
Let’s just say: a spoon won’t cut it.
I started by mixing everything in a measuring cup… major clumps.
What worked:
Tossed it all in the blender = smooth & frothy
Poured over ice = perfection
Sweetened almond milk (they didn’t have unsweetened at the store) = balanced flavor
Pro Tip: A blender or frother is essential.
(A spoon or shaker bottle? Don’t bother.)
How I Felt
Energy: Boosted, but calm
No crash like with coffee
Stomach: Happy — almond milk didn’t upset me
Taste: Actually GOOD. Sweet, creamy, satisfying
Fullness: Held me until a snack (not a full meal)
Coffee vs Matcha: The Glow-Up Comparison
| Coffee | Matcha | |
| Caffeine | Fast hit, potential crash | Slower release, longer-lasting energy |
| Jitters | Common | Calming effect from L-theanine |
| Nutrition | Some potassium | Antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, minerals |
| Oral Health | Can stain teeth | Antibacterial, supports oral hygiene |
| Stress | Can increase anxiety | Naturally calming and centering |
Final Thoughts
Was it worth it? Absolutely.
For $1.78 a day, I made a drink that’s energizing, protein-packed, and way better for me than my usual Starbucks order.
Plus, now I have:
85 servings of matcha
16 servings of protein
8 servings of almond milk (Can substitute with whole milk, which is $1.49 and contains 16 servings)
Until next time,
XOXO
Kiki