Happy May! As summer approaches and we have more social engagements in the warmer weather, I wanted to share my recommendations for the healthiest summer drinks + cocktails. Even though I am a holistic nutrition health coach and barre/yoga teacher, I still like to indulge in a nice glass of wine or a cocktail because hey, I’m human! With that being said, I’ve learned which alcohols have the lowest sugar + calories to help you stay consistent with your wellness goals and don’t result in a horrible hangover. This allows you to be able to enjoy yourself but also to wake up the next day feeling fresh and able to continue on your healthy + happy lifestyle that you’re already on without any hiccups or issues!
Here are my top picks for healthiest cocktails/drinks as they don’t spike your blood sugar levels quite as much as other alcoholic beverages:
- Mezcal or Tequila Blanco soda with lime – These drinks will be lower in calories + sugar. I prefer Mezcal as it needs to be made 100% from agave vs tequila which is only 51% agave (this means the rest can be sugar/other fillers.) However, the more high-end tequilas should be made from higher amounts of agave.
- Vodka/Gin soda with lime or lemon – Clear liquors in general are lower in calories + sugar. Personally, I’ve had allergic reactions to vodka (even Tito’s!) and I’ve heard other people have had a similar reaction so be cognizant of this. If you think you’re one of them, try switching over to gin or tequila.
- Red or Rosé Wine – Wine contains antioxidants and compounds called polyphenols, resveratrol, and quercetin, which are good for heart health. Wine also enhances the taste of your food so it’s great to pair with a nice meal!
- Spiked Seltzer – This is a great option instead of a beer as they are low in calories, sugar + carbs and the bubbles will keep you full so you’re more likely to drink less. My favorite brand is Truly as it’s made with all natural ingredients and only has 1g of sugar. My next option would be White Claw with only 2g of sugar, but not necessarily all natural. These are perfect for the beach!
Additional Drinking Guidelines:
Whiskey, Scotch, Rum
- While these may contain more sugar, as long as you consume them on the rocks, you won’t be adding in any additional calories. They also contain higher concentrations of congeners, toxic compounds formed when alcohol is fermented, which is why the hangovers may be worse. Lastly, make sure to drink it slow so you don’t end up consuming more drinks since there’s less liquid!
Beer
- I would recommend steering away from beer if you are looking to lose weight or get more muscle definition as beer contains the highest amount of sugar, carbs + calories. You can consume light beers, but in my opinion – they are probably not even worth it. If you are going to have a beer, I would recommend picking one that’s “worth it” and actually enjoy drinking it.
Ciders
- If you are not feeling a beer and want something gluten-free, I usually opt for a cider instead. However, note that ciders can be high in sugar so you want to look for ones that are on the drier, less sweet side. My recommendations would be Magners Irish Cider, Austin Eastciders or Woodchuck Amber Hard Cider.
Final “Little Adapts”:
- Drink at least a glass of water in between each beverage to stay hydrated.
- Stay away from sugary cocktails on the menu unless you deem it “worth it”, but you’re better off sticking with the recs above.
- Kombucha is also a great mixer and mixes really well with Mezcal, especially Health-Ade Power Greens. You might as well get some probiotics in while you’re drinking too!
- I recommend sticking with a 3 – 4 maximum beverage consumption over the course of night aka a long period of time (ideally, 1 to 2 is better of course!)
- If you need to add flavor, you can ask for lime, mint + cucumber or a splash of juice (emphasis on a splash!)
- Tonic is actually high in sugar + calories and not the same as soda water. Have a splash or avoid it altogether!
- 2 cucumber slices
- 4 mint leaves
- 1 lime wedge
- 1 oz Mezcal
- Handful of ice
- 6 oz seltzer or sparkling water
- Place cucumber, mint + lime in the bottom of a cocktail glass + muddle with a muddler.
- Add in mezcal, ice + sparkling water and stir.
- Option to serve with a slice of lime + cucumber as a garnish to serve. Enjoy!
You can make this cocktail at home or ask for it at any bar + restaurant as they usually have cucumber, lime + mint on hand!
With Health + Happiness Always,
Jax
PS – Need tips on the best travel snacks? Click here!
