What are the best drinks for the holidays?

A little Naughty, But Mostly Nice Holiday Drinks
 
One of the things I often hear from clients is that they don’t want to give up their wine or other alcoholic beverages. I am a big believer in balance and sometimes that may mean having a drink, especially when you are celebrating the holidays with your family and friends. To get the most value out of your alcoholic beverages, take a look at my tips and recipes for healthier versions of classic favorites:

BEST DRINKS TO HAVE AT A PARTY:
 
Organic/Sustainable White Wine or Rose – one 5oz glass contains 120 calories. I love Alie Rose by Fresconbaldi. This winery is committed to sustainable agriculture and environmental preservation, which is crucial right now at the time of global warming. I will cheer to that! https://en.frescobaldi.com/wines/alie/

Organic/Sustainable Red Wine – red wine has the highest level of antioxidants and resveratrol, which has shown to have some heart-healthy benefits. One 5oz glass contains only 100 calories. Try Avignonesi brand – the owner that created this organic winery is committed to only use sustainable and bio-dynamic practices. These wines are available at Total Wine and More. https://avignonesi.it/en
 
Champagne/Sparking Wine/Prosecco – each glass is usually 4 oz and has 80-90 calories. Try Bisol Jeio Prosecco Brut – it has 11% of alcohol and about 2 grams of sugar per glass. http://www.jeio.it
 
 
Z-TIPS:

• Drink flavored Italian Sparkling Water from champagne flutes in between alcoholic beverages to reduce alcohol consumption and stay hydrated. Try raspberry/lemon or the strawberry flavors by 365 Brand at Whole Foods.

• Avoid martinis and instead have your drink on ice. As ice melts, it will dilute alcohol and make your drink less concentrated, therefore easier to process by your system.

• Try 100% Agave Blanco Tequila - it has been said that tequila can act as a probiotic, help digestion and even aid in weight loss. The best way to have your tequila is on ice and diluted with some fresh grapefruit juice, which can help burn fat.

• Substitute dairy milk and cream for almond milk and coconut cream. Plant-based milks are cholesterol free and they offer additional benefits such vitamin E and good-for-you fats.

 
 
Recipes:
 
Pineapple Vodka Cocktail – Craving a mixed Vodka drink? Mix healthy green juices with vodka for a balanced mixed drink.
 
3 ounces pineapple-based green juice like BluePrint Pineapple Apple Mint, available at Whole Foods Market.
1 ounce Vodka
Fresh wedges of pineapple
 
Mix ingredients in a glass with ice. Decorate with a wedge of pineapple.
 
 
 
Vegan Egg Nog – When you are in the mood for an old-fashioned egg not, try this cholesterol-free recipe that will give you all the flavor as well as extra protein and fiber that a traditional drink won’t.

• 2 cups Califia Farms Eggnog Flavored Almond Milk
• 1 Cup Cold Water
• 10 oz Extra-Firm Sprouted Tofu
• 1/2 cup Coconut Nectar
• 1.5 tablespoons Pure Vanilla Extract
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt

1 cup rum or brandy (optional)
 
Blend all ingredients until smooth in a high-speed blender. Enjoy!

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