Thirsty Thursday Things: A Healthy Approach to Cocktail Time

Let me start this one off with the obvious disclaimer:  I don’t encourage binge drinking, for many reasons, both physiological and psychological. I don’t think I need to get into the details right now…so just know that this post is intended for those that want to have an occasional cocktail sans guilt. Drinking in moderation tends to be a hot spot discussion in wellness, and it’s something that many of us include in our lives. So, the question is always, “how can I do that and still be/feel healthy?”

I’m going to lay it out here right now: I enjoy having the occasional glass of wine with my husband at dinner or having drinks with family and friends. It’s part of my social life, and while some may frown upon that, I’m just being real. YES, I love wine. YES I love crafting new, healthier cocktail concoctions.  YES, I am a cult follower of “Skinny-Girling” my drinks. And YES once in a while, I’ll use the over inflated, “but there are so many health benefits” excuse. I’m not ashamed.  You can still enjoy the occasional glass of wine (or two) and be perfectly healthy. In fact, during my wedding prep, my coach encouraged me to have a “free meal” during which I almost always  reached for a glass of wine or trimmed-down cocktail of my choice. Because, as if I haven’t said it enough, #treatyoself.

.   So, what are my preferences in those times of toasting? I’m a situational beverage selector. I believe there are certain times, places, and seasons that I enjoy different beverages. So, my choices tend to vary. And, as I mentioned, I like testing new recipes and/or challenging a bartender with a new idea. But, I don’t have all day here, so these are the basics:

`1. Wine aka the drink of the gods: I’m partial to red wine, specifically a good Malbec or Tempernillo. Although, lately I’ve been really into the reds of the Douro Valley because #honeymoonfeels. The problem is, I get a serious case of red teeth. And if you had these chompers, you’d understand how this may impact my photo opportunities when I’m out with friends or at a special event. So, in situations like that,  I’ll typically choose a Sauvignon Blanc or a glass of Champagne (Sparkling Rose has actually been a solid go-to as well). I prefer a dryer wine over a sweet wine, so even champagne is typically an Extra Brut.

2. Vodka Soda: I’m partial to Kettle One, but almost every other millennial female and my mom have hopped on board the Tito’s train, so I guess that’s good too? I always mix it with soda water, and sometimes add a splash of lime juice or cranberry juice to give it a little flava flave. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ve been known to tip back a Deep Eddy Grapefruit vodka and soda water (sometimes in the form of a Crush…I’m looking at you Baltimore). All of the Deep Eddy vodkas are small batched and infused with the chosen fruit…aka not added sugars.

3. Skinny Marg: Because, obvi. In the summer especially, your girl will have the occasional craving for a margarita and there is a Mexican restaurant right down the street from my house that makes off-the-chain margaritas. Now-a-days it’s a lot more common to find restaurants that use natural ingredients, so “skinni-fying” is becoming a lot easier. Here’s my go-to marg order:

•  Clear Tequila
•  Lime Juice
•  Water
• a SPLASH of Agave Nectar.

* Pro tip:  If you feel as though that isn’t sweet enough, bring a packet of stevia (or sweetener of choice. I try to limit the AF’s I use, so I go with stevia).

4. Mojito: I typically ask for my mojitos with only a dash of simple syrup (basically, liquid sugar). A mojito is mainly soda water, white rum, muddled mint, and simple syrup. Again, I ask for just a dash of the simple syrup. If you really want to avoid sugars (see pro-tip above).

5 Do’s when you Choose to BOOZE

1. Pay Attention to Portions: It’s important to note, especially when going out to restaurants or bars, it is quite possible that you’re getting more than the standard  serving size. This isn’t totally detrimental, but keep that in mind when you’re thinking about “ordering just one more.” You can also choose to do your own pours, specifically with wine. I personally like getting a bottle because I can control my pour and I know that it’s freshly opened. Check this out: 
   • Approximate Calories for Single Servings:
     • 5 ounce glass of red wine or white wine (~120 calories)
     • 4 ounce glass of champagne (~90 calories)
     • 1.5 ounces of spirits  (95-105 calories)
     • 12 ounce “lite” beer (55-120 calories…but just so you know, you’re basically consuming water at 55 calories).
     • 12 ounce beer (130-200 calories…again, massive range here and it’s very brand specific)
2. Take your time: Ever been in a sitch where it feels like you just ordered a drink and it’s already gone?  Or you can’t even give a solid review of the bevie because you downed it faster than your brain was able to process what just happened? We live in such a rushed society that we tend to hurry with everything. Take the time to actually enjoy what you’re drinking. Notice the flavors and rellllllaaaax people.
3. Mind Your Mixers This is a big one, specifically in the spirits department. I think it’s pretty clear that creamy, sugar laden beverages are calorie bombs. And, on top of that, they tend to be loaded with added sugars and ingredients that just aren’t good for you. If you find that something is just too plain with soda water/water…then add a splash of fruit juice. You can also choose to mix with a diet beverage, depending on your tolerance of artificial sweeteners. Oh and BTW, there is a BIG difference between a vodka with soda water and a vodka with tonic. Soda water contains 0 calories for an 8 ounce serving. Tonic, on the hand, contains 97 calories for an 8 ounce serving. Have two of those babies instead of two vodka sodas and you’ve increased your caloric intake but 200 calories. Was it worth it? Not to mention that sodas, pre-made mixers, and fruit juices contain added sugars which increases the likelihood of a hangover. No Bueno.
4. Hydrate: I mean, this is a no brainer. You are dehydrating your body when you consume alcohol and it’s important to replenish it. For every drink you have, follow it up with at least one glass of water or soda water. Added bonus: this will help you control the pace of your drinking. Before you go to bed, down a giant glass of water. This can help reduce morning-after bloating and puffiness. Hydration for the win.
5. Experiment with new recipes:  Don’t be afraid to try something new. There are so many resources online for healthier cocktails. Test them out at home and don’t be afraid to ask for something that’s “not on the menu” when you go to a bar or restaurant. A good bar or restaurant will, more often than not, be able to accommodate.

Also, one extra thing to note: don’t drink something if you don’t enjoy it. I like to use the beer example. If you HATE light beer (personally, I think most taste like water and aren’t worth my calories), don’t just order it because the non-light beer is higher in calories. I guarantee you won’t be satisfied and it’s just not worth it. If you opt for something a little higher in calories, just reduce the amount you drink of it. Remember, it’s all about moderation. And on that note, I need to go clean the house because I’m #old and that’s what Thursday evenings consist of these days. 

~ Xtina