Festive Mocktails to Celebrate the Season
Sip your way to a happy and healthy holiday season!
It’s not a bad idea to consume fewer overall drinks this holiday season. In fact, it really makes sense, given the newest research. We’re learning that less and less alcohol is better for you. Yet, there is also compelling science to suggest that getting together with friends and family is of increasing importance.
It’s a balance to encourage community and gathering while minimizing alcohol. Our answer is: drink something, but not alcohol all the time. Sip your way to a happy and healthy holiday season!
Getting Into the Mocktail Spirit
It is delightful to raise a glass to feeling good, treating your body right, getting better sleep and nixing hangovers. Zero-proof mocktails satisfy hankerings for a celebratory seasonal drink while ensuring you stay clear headed.
I’ve been testing different non-alcoholic festive drinks through the seasons using a variety of different flavors. Here are some of our collective favorites at Healthy Nest Nutrition.
These festive zero-alcohol drinks are a wonderful way to find that balance and celebrate the season.
Virgin Paloma
An excellent cocktail party refresher! I had this at a party last weekend and it was so pretty and delicious, I didn’t even miss the tequila. Simply mix club soda + grapefruit juice with a slice of lime and serve over ice. Maybe rim half the glass with salt or throw in a sprig of rosemary or thyme to fancy it up.
Pineapple-Ginger Spritz
Give your holiday mocktail a beachy twist while sneaking in some gut-friendly ginger and lemon. Pour unflavored seltzer water or club soda over ice and stir in pineapple juice, grated ginger and a squeeze of fresh lemon. Garnish with a pineapple wedge or lemon slice. (Borrowing this idea from True Foods).
Hot Toddy (of sorts)
This is a comforting cup that satisfies the craving for a hot nip on a cold winter night. Steep your favorite tea and throw in a hunk of fresh ginger and a squeeze of lemon. If you’re craving something sweet, add a spoonful of honey or natural maple syrup. It is yummy!
Holiday Punch for a Crowd
This one is built for a party and perfect for all ages. Mix the following in a pitcher: the juice of 3 to 4 fresh-squeezed blood oranges, 1 cup fresh-squeezed orange juice, 1 grapefruit freshly squeezed, 1 lemon freshly squeezed, ½ cup of agave and a shake of cinnamon. Pour over ice in glasses and top with a splash of ginger beer or seltzer water. Garnish with whole cranberries and pomegranate seeds.
Why Not Cocktails? Here’s a Little Refresher.
In case you need the why on mocktails — alcohol depletes the body. It is dehydrating, contains added boozy calories and mixers with chemicals (think Jack and Coke), impairs digestion and generally makes us feel bad.
Mocktails GIVE us:
1. Hydration: Proper hydration supports digestion, skin health, cognitive function and overall well-being.
2. Fewer Calories: Many mocktails are lower in calories than alcoholic beverages, especially when made with fresh fruits and natural sweeteners (like honey or agave).
3. Vitamins and Antioxidants: Ingredients such as citrus fruits, berries, and herbs like mint and basil are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that can help strengthen the immune system, fight free radicals and improve skin health.
4. Improved Digestion: Ingredients like ginger, mint, and lemon are often used in mocktails, helping to soothe nausea, reduce bloating and support gut health.
5. Blood Sugar Regulation: Ingredients like fresh fruit, coconut water, and herbs can help regulate blood sugar levels, add fiber + vitamins.
6. Support for Mental Clarity: Mocktails can provide the relaxation of a celebratory drink without the risk of impaired decision-making or cognitive function.
7. Better Sleep: Unlike alcohol, which can disrupt sleep patterns, soothing mocktails made with ingredients like chamomile or lavender can help us unwind without causing sleep disturbances.
8. Happy Feelings: Drinking a good-for-you tasty drink makes you happy without all of the baggage and next-day regret of drinking.
For help finding your personalized nutrition plan, digging deeper into willpower and setting yourself up for a healthy and happy new year, connect with a holistic nutritionist for a complimentary consultation.