Drink This, Not That: Holiday Cocktails

Everything seems to get a little richer during the holiday season, and that’s including holiday cocktails. From eggnog to heavy holiday beers, these traditional holiday drinks are fun but high in calories.

Erin Naatz, certified personal trainer and owner of in Sussex, says one of the biggest problems people have with added calories comes straight from holiday drinks.

“Consider this: There are about 125 calories in about 5-ounces of wine,” Naatz said. “Now, I'm not saying enjoying some holiday spirits is out of the question, but just limit how much you are actually consuming… Have a hankering for a cold brew? Your best bet is a Guinness Draught at 125 calories, or you could always reach for a low-cal Miller 64.”

And if you’re mixing drinks for your own holiday party, or even just out on the town, use these low-cal tips from HealthCastle.com to still have your taste buds tingling.

• Skip the Syrup: Many cocktails rely on sugar-sodden fruit syrups and mixes that offer none of the benefits of real fruit. Instead, use real fruit, especially citrus and berries. Try them blended as a base for mixed drinks.
• Kick the Cola: Cola packs a killer calorie punch, especially mixed with high-sugar spirits like rum or rye. Try a spritzer base instead for a much lighter take on carbonated drinks. Lime spritzer and rum or vodka is a great place to start.  
• Just a Splash of Flavor: Start with a basic vodka and soda (club soda has 0 calories) and add a hint of flavor with citrus peel, frozen berries, or fresh mint. The strong smells give the impression of big flavor, and the colors are great, too.
• Avoid High Proof: Higher alcohol levels instantly up the calorie count, so high-proof liquor bulks up your cocktail in more ways than one. Stick to the standard-proof brands to get both the calories and the drink strength you expect. 
• Sip, Pause, Repeat: Cocktails taste best when sipped slowly – and you'll consume less over the course of the party if you're not throwing them back. Add lots of ice to keep your drink cold to the last drop.

“If you keep the calories in moderation and don't skip your workouts, you will find you will not be one of the many people who put on the pounds throughout the holidays,” Naatz said.