Looking for some refreshing drink to nourish and satisfy your craving? With a rising awareness of health-conscious living, searching for ways to enjoy your healthy alcoholic drinks without feeling guilty may just be the right thing to do.
Finding the right balance between enjoying life and making health-conscious choices can be a challenge, especially when it comes to what you drink. Alcoholic beverages often come with added sugars and a pile of calories—but they don’t have to!
This blog explores the most healthy alcoholic beverages and healthy non-alcoholic drinks that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
The Benefits of Healthy Alcoholic Drinks
Alcohol may not be the healthiest drink, but if consumed in moderation, it can provide some benefits for human health. Healthy alcoholic drinks, such as red wine, contain antioxidants, which have been linked to improved cardiovascular health. Regular to moderate alcohol consumption may lead to a lower risk of dementia, thus improving cognitive function. Moreover, research suggests that light consumption of healthy alcoholic drinks decreases the risk of diabetes and osteoporosis.
But a word of caution: it is important to drink alcohol in moderation and avoid overdrinking, as it can pose negative health consequences. According to CDC, the recommended moderate alcohol use is two drinks or less in a day for men, and one drink or less in a day for women.
The good news? There are some healthy alcoholic drinks that you can consume in moderation to reap the health benefits for a healthier, active, and revitalized you.
The Most Healthy Alcoholic Drinks
1. Red Wine
Red wine is made by fermenting and crushing dark-colored grapes. A 2018 study revealed that moderate consumption of red wine is linked to a decrease in cardiovascular diseases, atherosclerosis, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes.
Red wine is considered a healthy alcoholic drink and is rich in antioxidants. One of these is Resveratrol, which is regarded as the most effective wine compound. When consumed in moderation, it prevents cardiovascular disease and other heart-related complications.
2. White Wine Spritzer
A refreshing and low-calorie beverage, the wine spritzer combines sparkling water or soda with wine. Its lower alcoholic content than red wine makes it an ideal healthy alcoholic drink for those looking to reduce their calorie intake. It contains approximately 121 calories with a 5-oz serving of white wine that you can mix with a carbonated drink for a calorie-free beverage. Like red wine, it contains polyphenols that prevent cell damage by reducing oxidative stress.
3. Vodka Soda
If you want to lose weight while enjoying a refreshing alcoholic drink, vodka soda is the answer. At only 133 calories per standard 7.5-oz serving, vodka soda is relatively low in calories and sugar. Moreover, drinking vodka increases leptin levels, a hormone that our body’s adipose tissue releases, creating a sensation of fullness and satiety, making it among the most healthy alcoholic beverages.
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4. Champagne
Champagne is among the most popular alcoholic drinks—and it is healthy too! Made from both red and white wine, champagne contains the highest level of Resveratrol, the polyphenolic compound responsible for a healthy heart and low blood pressure. A standard 5-oz serving of champagne contains about 90-125 calories, with drier varieties containing even fewer calories than sweeter ones, making it a good choice for a healthy alcoholic drink.
Refreshing Non-Alcoholic Alternatives for a Healthier You
Although you can manage your weight by consuming healthy alcoholic drinks, drinking them in moderation is the key. Alternatively, you can try out these healthy non-alcoholic drinks that are just as refreshing and satisfying:
1. Sparkling Water with Fruits or Herbs
Sparkling water infused with fresh fruits and herbs is a refreshing and revitalizing alternative to healthy alcoholic drinks. It is a great way to stay hydrated and infusing it with fruits and herbs can make it even more appealing. Furthermore, sparkling water does not contain any sugars, caffeine, or artificial flavors, so you can quench your thirst without adding empty calories. A study shows that consuming sparkling water can potentially relieve indigestion and bloating.
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2. Kombucha
Kombucha is a type of fermented tea that is rich in probiotics and has several benefits for health. A convenient alternative to healthy alcoholic drinks, kombucha provides your gut with healthy bacteria which may improve digestion and reduce inflammation. Moreover, kombucha made from black and green tea has strong antibacterial properties which fight against harmful bacteria.
3. Mocktails
Mocktails are sophisticated, healthy alternatives to healthy alcoholic drinks with various benefits. One of the main benefits that it delivers is reduced calorie intake. You can easily make low-calorie mocktails with fresh fruits and mint that will prevent overeating and suppress your appetite. Additionally, mocktails can promote relaxation and restfulness, as they do not contain alcohol, which has been known to disrupt sleep patterns.
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4. Herbal Teas
Ranked among the most healthy non-alcoholic drinks, herbal teas have strong antioxidant properties that fight oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. Certain types of herbal teas such as ginger tea are known to relieve gastrointestinal infections, while chamomile tea reduces the risk of heart diseases. Moreover, hibiscus tea may lower blood pressure, leading to a better heart health.
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How to Strike the Right Balance?
Here are 5 tips to help you strike the right balance when consuming healthy alcoholic drinks:
- Set clear limits: decide in advance how many drinks you will have
- Choose lower-calorie options: opt for lighter healthy alcoholic drinks such as wine spritzers as they have fewer calories and lower sugar content
- Stay hydrated: drink water between alcoholic drinks to slow down overconsumption, allowing you to enjoy your drinks more mindfully.
Key Takeaway
Finding the right balance between consuming alcoholic drinks and caring for your health may be a tough task. However, a moderate consumption of healthy alcoholic drinks can benefit your health. Conversely, non-alcoholic drinks can provide a refreshing and uplifting alternative to alcoholic drinks, allowing you to indulge in drinking without feeling guilty.
