12 Healthy Alcoholic Drink Options To Opt For Over Beer And Wine
Summer is here, which probably means you’re drinking more than usual. After all, who doesn’t love a glass of wine or a beer in the sun? But, beer and wine can often leave us feeling bloated and not thaaat great, especially when we’re supposed to be having fun in our bikinis soon. If you’re trying to watch how much you drink or trying to make healthier choices, you shouldn’t have to miss out on all the fun with your friends. That’s why we’re here to save the day and present you with 12 healthy alcoholic drink options to go for instead of beer or wine.
Although, note, that just because these are “healthier” options in some ways to beer or wine, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they are always a better option. You should always limit the number of alcoholic beverages. It’s important to take into consideration sugar, carbs and calories – they might be “healthier” for different reasons.
1. Red wine
Though white wine has fewer calories than red wine and it seems like the perfect thing to drink on a hot summer’s day. A glass of red wine has antioxidants like flavonoids and resveratrol, which have heart-healthy benefits.
2. Shots (Gin, Whiskey, Tequila)
Did someone say shots? Shots are a good option when you want to drink more and are trying to be healthy, as they don’t require you to add all the extra sugary mixers. Be careful though and try to limit the amount of hard liquor you have, as it will be much stronger. Also, avoid anything colourful or creamy when choosing a shot. These are some of the more classic healthy alcoholic drink options.
3. Gin & (diet) Tonic/Soda water
If you can’t resist adding tonic, add less, in order to avoid all the extra sugar. Soda water is a great alternative to tonic as it will reduce your carb and calorie intake. Always go for clearer beverages, as they’re usually significantly lower in sugar (and calories) than other more colourful drinks.
4. Kombucha
Though you wouldn’t think it is an alcoholic drink, technically kombucha is because its ingredients are fermented. It is made from black tea and sugar and once they are fermented, contains a large amount of healthy bacteria also known as probiotics. This makes kombucha probably the healthiest of all alcoholic drinks as it is good for your heart, brain and your gut! This is one of the most unique healthy alcoholic drink options!
5. Cider
Cider is made from apples, making it different to beer. For those with a sensitivity to gluten or celiac disease, cider is one of the most delicious drink options out there. Cider is naturally gluten free, and tastes a lot more natural than gluten-free beers. Some studies suggest the high levels of antioxidants in cider, making it similar to a glass of red wine.
6. Light Beers
If you can’t resist having a beer, order a light one! Light beers are a great option for regular beer drinkers who want to manage their alcohol consumption or their calorie intake. Many well-known brands of beer offer light versions: Budweiser and Coors both offer a popular light beer, which still tastes like normal beer.
7. Bloody Mary
Most cocktails can be made healthier if you make them yourself. Just don’t buy the pre-made stuff. Bloody Mary’s often have lots of sugar and sodium but if you make it yourself, you can control the amount of tomato juice or alcohol you add. A healthier cocktail and you get at least 1 of your 5 a day in!
8. Mojito with honey (instead of syrup)
Swapping the syrup for honey will make your favourite mojito more healthy as it will be less sugary. There are a number of health benefits associated with mint leaves including its ability to help with IBS, bloating and common colds. Meaning that one mojito once in a while definitely won’t hurt.
9. A Classic Martini
A martini drink is typically low in calories – or at least lower than many other alcoholic drinks. A vodka martini contains around 127 calories, compared with 180 in a pint of beer or 170 in a glass of red wine. Many martinis also contain fruit, berries and flowers – and if it’s a dirty martini, there is the olive to consider! Practically a salad?!
10. Champagne
In terms of calories, champagne is slightly better than other alcoholic drinks like wine or beer. Serving sizes for champagne are generally smaller than other alcoholic beverages too, meaning that the calorie count is even lower. There are different kinds of champagne which vary in the amount of sugar they contain. If you’re trying to limit your sugar consumption, go for a glass of Brut Natural, Extra Brut or Brut. Cheers! Who knew champagne would be included on a list of healthy alcoholic drink options!?
11. Vodka Club Soda
Not the most exciting of drinks, but a vodka soda is low in calories. Add a touch of lime to give your drink a little bit more taste.
12. Sea Breeze
The perfect, refreshing summer drink! A Sea Breeze contains vodka, cranberry juice and grapefruit juice. Grapefruit is rich in Vitamin C and many people believe it can help you lose weight if you drink it before eating a meal. Why not try it out for yourself?
