So You Want a Healthier Cocktail? We’ll Show You How!

Whether it’s sitting by the pool or dining at a five-star restaurant, there’s something about a cocktail in your hand that just elevates the mood. And nothing beats the taste of your favorite, well-poured drink. Although delicious, cocktails are not exactly known for being healthy. But what if we told you there’s a way to make a cocktail, dare we say it–healthy? Here are our top five tips for crafting a healthier cocktail.

Skip the Premade Mixes

When you want a drink ASAP, it’s easy to opt for a cocktail mixer. After a long day of work, adding tequila to a margarita mix seems like the route to go. The reality is these tasty mixers are packed with sugar and are high in calories. Plus, sugar combined with alcohol is dehydrating and can increase the possibility of a hangover. Stick with a low-calorie base like club soda. And if you want a little sweetness use a small amount of simple syrup.

Invest in a Measuring System

Unless you’re a professional bartender, you probably shouldn’t be measuring your liquor servings with only your eyeballs. Cocktail glasses come in all shapes and sizes, and what might seem like a little pour could actually be a lot. Every amount counts and extra booze can make a big difference in how many calories your drink has. Use a cocktail jigger to help you portion your liquor serving, and ensure you’re not going overboard.

Make Your Drink HALFSIES™

Did you know, you can reduce the calories of a cocktail simply by making it HALFSIES™? This new style of drinking involves cutting your alcohol serving in half by using one part full-proof liquor and one part zero-proof liquor. These low-proof cocktails give you the freedom to enjoy the full flavor of your favorite cocktail, without going full calories. Non-alcoholic alternatives have up to 90% fewer calories compared to their counterparts. And many cannot even tell the difference in taste!

Try a Mocktail Version

If the word mocktail triggers images of sparkling grape juice or a Shirley temple boy do we have some good news for you. Now you can enjoy all the authentic flavors you love, completely alcohol-free. Spiritless award-winning spirits capture the taste you know, without any alcohol. If you're looking for a low-calorie cocktail, try making your drink completely zero-proof with a uniquely distilled non-alcoholic spirit.

Eat a Healthy Meal Before You Drink

Even when your cocktail is low-calorie, you could end up consuming unplanned calories from drinking. If you know you’re going to consume alcoholic beverages, have a nutritious meal before. This will help your body metabolize the alcohol, so you do not have that greasy food craving later. Focus on foods that balance protein, carbs, fiber, and fat, so your blood sugars and electrolytes are normal before you have anything to drink.