‘Tis the season for braais by the pool and late nights out with family and friends, and that often goes hand in hand with cold, refreshing beverages. Unfortunately, most of our favourite alcoholic drinks are filled with copious amounts of sugar. But don’t let that suck the fun out of your summer holidays, for “healthy” alternatives do exist.
What to Order at the Bar
1. Light Beer
After a long day out in the sun, an ice-cold beer does just the trick! Unfortunately, too many can lead to the infamous beer belly. To avoid the calories, try your favourite beers in lighter forms, e.g., Castle Lite, Bud Light, Amstel Light. You could also try something different this summer by giving local, lighter craft beers a taste.
2. White vs Red Wine
Red wine has more health benefits due to antioxidants; however, white wine tends to be slightly lower in calories and feels lighter. Opt for dry over sweet wines, regardless of colour, as dry wines contain less sugar. You could also switch to a wine spritzer to cut sugar in half.
3. Stick with Hard Liquor Shots
Each shot of hard liquor is about 100-130 calories; but once you add mixers (sugar, cream, etc.), the calories double. Stick with hard liquor such as tequila, vodka, whiskey, gin, and rum. Choices like peppermint crisp and strawberries-and-cream are a no-go.
4. Goodbye Tonic, Hello Soda
Block your ears, G&T enthusiasts — tonic water contains around 83 calories and 21.5 grams of sugar, while soda water contains zero. To spruce up soda water, add lemon, lime, or berries. If you’re not ready to give up tonic, try lighter options such as Fever-Tree’s Light Indian Tonic.
5. Low-Calorie Cocktails
Not living behind the camera? Delicious cocktails can catch up, but don’t worry, you don’t have to give them up. Here are cocktails under 200 calories:
- Mojito (168 calories)
- Old Fashioned (154 calories)
- Cucumber Gin Martini (100 calories)
- Rum and Diet Coke (96 calories)
- Amaro (75 calories)
- Vodka/Gin and Soda (65 calories)
Tips for Making Healthier Drinks at Home
1. Use Low-Calorie Mixers
Often, the liquor itself isn’t the main calorie contributor — it’s the mixer. Use teas, lighter tonics, sodas, lemonades, and fruit juices. Ask for drinks on the rocks to reduce calories further.
2. Add Ice
More ice keeps your drink cooler and reduces the amount you consume, cutting down calories.
3. Swap Syrup for Natural Sweeteners
Substitute syrups with honey, organic agave nectar, maple syrup, or fresh ingredients like lemon, lime, mint, basil, cucumber, or berries. Citrus, herbs, and fruits enhance flavour without extra sugar.
4. Alternate with Water
Hydrate! Make every other drink water to slow drinking and help your body process alcohol while filling up your stomach.
5. Pick a Healthy Barman
Thirst caters to all types of events, ensuring bars are stocked with quality ingredients. We also help select healthier drink alternatives for calorie-conscious clients.
There you have it! There’s no need to stick to dull drinks to avoid excessive calories. The festive season is here — eat, drink, and be merry, guilt-free!
Enjoy your summer beverages with Thirst bar services and expert cocktail creations for any event!
