The holidays are full of jovial opportunities to connect with friends, however we all know it’s no small feat to maintain your desired ‘healthy lifestyle’ this time of year. We definitely don’t recommend depriving yourself (don’t worry, you’ll still have January to live like a monk) and are sharing our favorite healthy holiday cocktails that look and taste just as indulgent as the classics. We’ve gathered a few of our own creations and libation tips to lessen the negative impacts with delicious drinks that help you to bounce back and stay healthy.
*Not a drinker? More power to you during this season, these are delicious on their own without the buzz.
Cheers & enjoy!
Kelsey’s Kombucha Mule
The Good - Kombucha has all the sweet zing of a ginger ale, without the blood sugar spike which is a known contributor to overeating and late night cravings. Your gut is “equipped with the largest and most complex part of the human immune system”, which directly impacts weight gain, anxiety, mood and a laundry list of other daily stressors*. The natural probiotics from the fermentation contained in Kombucha helps to restore the good microbiome and fight off offenders during flu season.
Recipe
- 1 cup Gingerade Kombucha (GT's is a consistent fave)
- 1 ½ Oz Vodka
- ¼ cup of 100% apple juice
- Squeeze of lemon juice to bring out the ginger
- Cinnamon stick to stir
- Thin slice of apple wedge for the rim topped with a dash of cinnamon
Tips:
- Add the Kombucha last. You want to preserve the carbonation, like you would seltzer.
- I prefer a taller drink that allows me to sip a bit more volume without as much alcohol but you may want to reduce the amount of Kombucha if you like a stronger beverage.
Jason’s Keep in Keto Margarita
The Good - For starters, added complexity (i.e. decision fatigue) can be a diet killer over the holidays and it’s helpful to keep basic ingredients on hand for the occasions when a friend drops by or you’ve had a long week. This drink was created with everyday items in our kitchen and has one of the lowest calorie counts while tasting refreshing.
Recipe
- ½ can Lime La Croix
- ⅛ - ¼ c of fresh lime juice
- 3-4 drops of liquid Stevia (we love the Trader Joe's one)
- Clear Tequila (try to get tequila that is derived fully from the agave plant)
- Fill cup with ice, mix together & stir
Fun Fact: Some small studies have shown tequila can actually help your body produce more ketones through the metabolic process that occurs in one’s liver (however this doesn’t directly translate to fat burning and hasn’t been shown to benefit weight loss goals). While the ketogenic diet isn’t for everyone, our Founder Jason will cycle through it a few times a year to boost productivity and improve metabolic efficiency. This is his solution for a quick drink without adverse effects.
Allysa’s Sparkling Gin Grapefruit*
The Good - Using more natural forms of sugar is a great way to avoid the refined stuff. Not to mention grapefruits are a wonderful source of fiber and vitamin C, especially when freshly juiced (natural flu fighter). Grapefruit juice has also been known to assist with heart health!
Directions:
Start by cutting the grapefruits in half, adding honey to the top, and broiling them in the oven. Once the tops have caramelized, juice the grapefruits and add juice into a cup of ice. Add in the gin, some sparkling water or tonic of choice, and a little extra honey if you like it a bit sweeter.
Recipe
- 1½ oz Gin
- Juice from 2 grapefruits
- Grapefruit Sparkling Water or Tonic
- Maple Sugar or Honey
- Water & Ice
Other life tips for a hangover free holiday:
BYO La Croix: Gone are the days of trying to impress the group with your superior alcohol tolerance, throw a can of unflavored La Croix in your purse (or request Soda Water at a bar) and make it a 50/50 of wine to bubbly ratio.
Fit Vine: This low sugar, low sulfate wine is making waves in Whole Foods around the US. Sadly we can’t get it in Utah yet but the reviews are promising. If you’re being carb conscious this is a good option for your next holiday party.
What are your tips and favorite healthy versions of holiday cocktails? Please share in the comments below!
Sources:
https://www.livestrong.com/slideshow/1011662-7-signs-gut-out-whack/?slide=2
*Adapted from Julie Bauers PaleOMG blog.
