What TO Drink…
Ok…so dry January is over, and you are thinking that you would like to have your alcohol back in. Yet – you made so much progress over the past month and you’re thinking…there has to be some better alcohol choices, and there is!
As a nutritionist, I tell my clients to watch alcohol due to its high sugar content. I know, you are probably thinking – how can there be any sugar, I am not adding anything sweet to it. Well, all alcohol breaks down into sugar alcohol in the liver. When this sugar doesn’t have anywhere to go – because we aren’t moving enough or are already consuming too much sugar, it turns into fat and is stored on the body. Where is it stored – if you guessed your belly, you are right!
I know for many, alcohol is a special treat and something enjoyed with friends. Use the following tips to keep you on you’re a-game when it comes to fitness and still enjoy!
Alcohol is a carb…it’s a sugar, its made from plants. Knowing this, when you are going to be enjoying some wine or a drink, have a meal before or with it that has fat, protein, fiber and greens. Example: Salmon salad with lots of veggies and a yummy fat based dressing. Or a steak/chicken with steamed/grilled veggies and a little bit of butter. This will keep your blood sugar balanced.
1 or 2 at most! Drink slowly / sip and enjoy. If you follow the above guidelines for what to eat, and only have 1 to 2 drinks, you will be left without the hangover and zero guilt.
Get some exercise prior to your treat. A brisk walk it all it takes to get the body burning your glucose stores on your body.
Still keep it out…put sparkling water in your wine or cocktail glass and add fresh lemon, lime or mint! This trick is key for anytime you want to reduce or eliminate.
The healthiest drinks to have:
Skinny Vodka Soda – This is hands down our best tasting and most recommended drink. 1-2oz of Vodka (we’re big on avoiding grains, and vodka is made with potatoes) mixed with Spindrift (there are so many different flavors to choose from) and a squeeze of fresh lime. Bonus – you can even add a few berries. Check out this guide provided by Sprindrift.
Margarita alternative – Tequila with a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Key – ensure that the lime is really ripe, this will make it sweater.
Skinny Mojito – use a light rum, replace the syrup with monk fruit or stevia, use sparkling water (not tonic water which is loaded with additional sugar) and lots of mint.
On the rocks – skip all the additives and simply drink your alcohol with ice.
Wine – yes, you can still have this, but remember its 1-2 servings, 5 oz., not the whole bottle. Opt for organic, clean crafted wine.
