How to Lighten Your Alcoholic Beverages Up this Holiday Season
Hey Angels and Alphas,
With the Holidays coming up around the corner, it’s always good to (no pun intended) serve a reminder about how important it is to enjoy alcoholic beverages in a healthier way (especially if you’re someone who is on a fitness journey right now.)
Enjoying alcoholic beverages in a healthier way hinges on the choice of alcohol, the mixers used, and the quantity consumed.
In this article, we will explore how to make your holiday cocktails healthier and more enjoyable, at least as healthy as they *can* be.
Choosing Healthier Mixers
The mixers in your cocktails can drastically change the nutritional content of your drink. Traditional mixers often come loaded with sugar and calories, but there are healthier alternatives. Using fresh fruit and juices not only reduces sugar intake but also adds natural flavors.
Consider replacing sugary sodas with sparkling water or club soda to add a refreshing fizz without the extra calories. Enhancing your drink with botanicals like bitters and aromatics such as fresh herbs and ginger can significantly improve the flavor profile of your cocktail without adding calories.
A simple yet delightful combination could be your favorite spirits served with fizzy water, complemented by a slice of citrus and a sprig of fresh mint for a refreshing twist.
Embracing Moderation
The key to enjoying alcoholic beverages healthily is moderation. It’s easy to overindulge, especially during festive seasons, but limiting yourself to one or two servings can help manage calorie intake. Not every celebration requires an alcoholic toast. Consider saving these drinks for occasions that are truly special to you. For non-alcoholic alternatives that still feel festive, try sparkling water with a twist of lime or a fancy glass of kombucha.
Choosing the Right Alcohol
Your choice of alcohol can also influence the healthiness of your drink. While all alcohol contains calories, some types are lower in calories and carbohydrates than others. Spirits like vodka, rum, gin, and whiskey are typically lower in these respects. When it comes to wine, red varieties offer more health benefits than white, thanks to their heart-healthy antioxidants and polyphenols like resveratrol. This makes red wine a suitable inclusion in diets like the Mediterranean diet, known for its health benefits.
Making Informed Choices
When crafting your holiday cocktails, consider these three aspects: the base alcohol, the mixers, and your portion size. Opt for spirits that are low in calories and carbohydrates. Choose mixers that are low in sugar but high in natural flavors. Lastly, be mindful of your portion sizes. Overindulging not only leads to excessive calorie intake but can also have broader health implications.
By staying mindful of these factors, you can enjoy your holiday season with delicious, health-conscious cocktails. Remember, the key to a healthier approach to alcohol is moderation and informed choices. With these tips, you can create delightful drinks that are both enjoyable and better for your health… and won’t derail you from your fitness progress!
Leave a Comment