Hey there! Looking for some healthy alcoholic drinks that won’t ruin your diet? Well, you’re in luck! In this article, I’ll be sharing five of my favorite low-calorie, low-sugar drink options that are perfect for those who want to stay fit while enjoying a nice drink. Whether you’re looking to maintain your six-pack or work your way towards one, these drinks are definitely worth trying. Just remember, drinking responsibly is always key, and not everyone should consume alcohol, especially if you’re on a strict diet. So, let’s explore these delicious and guilt-free options together!
5 Healthy Alcoholic Drinks That Won’t Ruin Your Diet!
Drinking alcohol doesn’t mean you have to gain weight! Here are a few of my favorite low-calorie, low-sugar drinks that I recommend for those looking to stay fit while enjoying life.
April Spritz
Ingredients
- White wine
- Aperol
- Sparkling water
- Ice
- Lemon wedge (optional)
Instructions
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Add white wine to fill 1/3 of the glass.
- Add Aperol to fill another 1/3 of the glass.
- Top off with sparkling water.
- Stir gently.
- Optionally, garnish with a lemon wedge.
- Enjoy!
The April Spritz is a refreshing and flavorful drink that is low in sugar and calories. It combines the sweetness of Aperol with the crispness of white wine and the effervescence of sparkling water. It’s a perfect choice for those looking for a light and enjoyable beverage.
Vodka Soda
Ingredients
- Vodka
- Sparkling water
- Ice
- Lemon juice (optional)
- Lemon wedge (for garnish)
Instructions
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Add vodka to fill about 1.5 ounces.
- Top off with sparkling water.
- Optionally, add a splash of lemon juice.
- Garnish with a lemon wedge.
- Cheers!
The Vodka Soda is a classic and simple drink that is low in calories. The vodka provides a crisp and clean taste, while the sparkling water adds a refreshing effervescence. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for a subtle citrus flavor.
Whiskey Sour
Ingredients
- Whiskey (bourbon)
- Lemon juice
- Simple syrup (agave or other sweetener)
- Ice
- Lemon wedge (for garnish)
Instructions
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Pour about 2 ounces of whiskey into the shaker.
- Add 3/4 ounce of lemon juice.
- Add 3/4 ounce of simple syrup.
- Shake well.
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Use a strainer to strain the contents of the shaker into the glass.
- Garnish with a lemon wedge.
- Cheers!
The Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail for whiskey lovers. The combination of whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup creates a delightful balance of flavors. You can adjust the amount of simple syrup to your preference, or choose a low-sugar option like agave syrup.
Watermelon White Wine Cocktail
Ingredients
- Watermelon
- White wine (unsweetened)
- Sparkling water
- Agave nectar (or other sweetener)
- Ice
- Watermelon wedge (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cut the watermelon into cubes (about 2 cups).
- Pour the watermelon cubes into a blender.
- Add 2 cups of unsweetened white wine.
- Add a drizzle of agave nectar (to taste).
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour into a glass (this recipe makes four drinks).
- Top off with a splash of sparkling water.
- Garnish with a watermelon wedge.
- Enjoy!
The Watermelon White Wine Cocktail is a refreshing and fruity drink that is perfect for hot summer days. The sweetness of the watermelon pairs beautifully with the crispness of the white wine. By using unsweetened white wine and adding a small amount of agave nectar, you can keep the calorie and sugar content low.
Fruity Kava Cocktail
Ingredients
- Dried kava powder
- Citrus juice (such as yuzu)
- Ice
Instructions
- Put a small amount of dried kava powder into a glass.
- Add a splash of citrus juice (like yuzu) to the glass.
- Stir well.
- Cheers!
The Fruity Kava Cocktail offers a unique and sophisticated flavor profile. Kava is known for its relaxing properties, and the addition of citrus juice adds a refreshing twist. This drink is ideal for those looking for a low-sugar option that still provides an interesting flavor experience.
Other Low-Calorie Alcoholic Drinks
In addition to the aforementioned cocktails, there are several other low-calorie alcoholic drinks that you can enjoy without derailing your diet. Here are a few options:
Gin and Tonic
A classic drink made with gin and tonic water. Choose a low-calorie or light tonic water for an even lower-calorie option.
Rum and Diet Coke
For fans of rum, mixing it with diet cola can create a low-calorie drink that still delivers on flavor.
Tequila and Soda
Swap out the sugary margarita mix for a simple mix of tequila and soda water. Add a splash of lime juice for extra flavor.
Light Beer
Opt for light beer options, which typically have fewer calories and carbohydrates than regular beer.
Wine Spritzer
Mix wine with sparkling water to create a refreshing and lighter alternative to straight wine. You can also add a slice of fruit for added flavor.
These additional options provide variety and flexibility when it comes to low-calorie alcoholic drinks. Remember to enjoy them in moderation and be mindful of portion sizes.
Things to Consider
When choosing low-calorie alcoholic drinks, it’s important to consider a few factors that can impact your overall health and wellness. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Calories and Sugar Content
While low-calorie alcoholic drinks can help reduce your overall calorie intake, it’s still essential to be aware of the calories and sugar content in the specific beverages you choose. Reading labels, opting for unsweetened varieties, and using low-calorie mixers can help you make informed choices.
Portion Control
Keeping an eye on your portion sizes is crucial when it comes to maintaining a balanced diet. Even low-calorie drinks can add up if consumed in excessive amounts. Practice moderation and enjoy your drinks responsibly.
Mixers and Garnishes
The mixers and garnishes used in alcoholic drinks can significantly impact their calorie and sugar content. Opt for low-sugar or no-sugar mixers and consider using fresh ingredients like lemon or lime juice instead of premade mixes. Additionally, be mindful of the amount of garnishes you use, as they can add extra calories and sugar.
Potential Health Benefits of Moderate Alcohol Consumption
While excessive alcohol consumption can have negative health effects, moderate alcohol consumption has been associated with several potential health benefits. Here are a few:
Reduced Risk of Heart Disease
Moderate alcohol consumption, particularly red wine, has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease. This is believed to be due to the presence of antioxidants, such as resveratrol, in certain alcoholic beverages.
Improvement in Insulin Sensitivity
Some research suggests that moderate alcohol consumption may improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. However, it’s important to note that excessive alcohol consumption can have the opposite effect and increase the risk of diabetes.
Stress Reduction
Enjoying a drink in moderation can help alleviate stress and promote relaxation. However, it’s important to find healthy and non-alcoholic strategies to manage stress as well.
Social Engagement
Drinking alcohol in social settings can improve social engagement and promote a sense of community. However, it’s essential to balance the social benefits with the potential risks and always prioritize your well-being.
Conclusion
Choosing low-calorie alcoholic drinks doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice taste or enjoyment. By exploring the various options available and being mindful of the ingredients and portion sizes, you can find drinks that fit perfectly into your diet and lifestyle. Remember to drink responsibly, stay hydrated, and prioritize your overall health and well-being. Cheers to enjoying life while staying fit!