by Margaret S Garrett - Published 6 months ago

Healthiest Alcoholic Drinks: Lighter Options

The holiday season is here, offering many chances to enjoy a drink (or two!). You might think you need to avoid alcohol entirely if you’re trying to lose weight, but this isn’t always true. In fact, research shows that strict restrictions and deprivation often lead to overeating and binges.

With a bit of planning and focus, you can enjoy the holiday season and all its delights without disrupting your diet.

CONSIDERATIONS FOR YOUR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES

When considering a cocktail, it’s essential to keep three things in mind: the type of alcohol, the portion size, and the mixers you choose.

Let’s start with the type of alcohol. Contrary to what many believe, alcohol itself is not very high in calories or carbs. Some types of alcohol have fewer calories, sugar, and carbs than others.

Vodka, rum, gin, and whiskey have the lowest calorie and carb content.

Red wine is a healthier choice than white because it's packed with heart-protective antioxidants and polyphenols, like resveratrol. Red wine is even part of the Mediterranean diet!

Use the chart below to pick the best option for you, based on your goals.

Next, consider what you're mixing with your alcohol. Often, it's the mixers, not the alcohol itself, that add a lot of calories … mostly from sugar!

You can cut the sugar in half (and make it taste better) by using fresh fruit and juices, sparkling water, and club soda. Botanicals like bitters and aromatics like fresh herbs and ginger also add flavor and balance, without calories. For the easiest solution, serve your spirits with fizzy water, a squeeze of citrus, and some fresh mint — and stick to just one or two servings.

Next, consider your alcohol intake.

For holiday cocktails, moderation is key. Not every occasion requires a drink, so choose your moments wisely.

For a festive, alcohol-free option, try sparkling water with lime or kombucha in a wine glass.

LOWER-CALORIE COCKTAILS

Mindfulness doesn't mean complete abstinence. Enjoy a festive season while still enjoying a cocktail or two.

Here are some lighter cocktail options to get you in the holiday spirit!

BLOODY MARY

This brunch staple is a sugar-free option that's under 100 calories and features vegetables. (Yes, tomato juice counts!) To make it even healthier, avoid the salted rim and minimize salt in the mix. This lowers sodium and helps prevent bloating. Serve in a smaller glass and use only 1 ounce of vodka for a flavorful, low-calorie cocktail.

Ingredients

1 ounce vodka
4 ounces tomato juice
2 dashes Worcestershire sauce
2 dashes Tabasco sauce
1/2 lemon, juiced
1/8 teaspoon celery salt
Pepper, to taste
1 stalk of celery for garnish
1 teaspoon fresh horseradish

SCREWDRIVER

You can easily modify this traditional drink by adding a bit of sparkling water and using less orange juice. A slice of orange can be used for decoration.

Ingredients

1 1/2 ounces vodka
2 ounces orange juice
Splash of sparkling water

BOURBON AND SODA

This classic beverage, with under 100 calories, is perfect for slow enjoyment and simple to prepare.

Ingredients

1 1/2 ounces bourbon

2 ounces club soda

Squeeze of lime

WINE SPRITZER

This cocktail is low in calories with only 40 calories per serving. You can use heart-healthy red wine for an added benefit.

Ingredients

2 ounces wine

2 ounces sparkling water

SPARKLING GREYHOUND

The Sparkling Greyhound is a refreshing and flavorful drink with only 89 calories, making it a great alternative to a vodka soda.

Ingredients

1 ounce grapefruit juice
2 ounces vodka or gin
2 ounces club soda

PALOMA

The Paloma, a beloved Mexican cocktail, shares similarities with a margarita but utilizes grapefruit and lime juice instead of a pre-made mix. Notably, it's relatively low in calories, clocking in at 121 calories when adhering to the proportions outlined below.

Ingredients

1 1/2 ounces tequila

2 ounces grapefruit juice (freshly squeezed is ideal)

1/2 ounce lime juice

Splash of club soda

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Overindulging in alcohol during the holiday season can negatively impact your well-being. When selecting cocktails, consider the alcohol base, the mixers used, and the portion size (or the number of drinks consumed at one time). To mitigate potential negative effects, practice mindful consumption, opt for low-calorie spirits, and steer clear of sugary cocktails.