3 things that make a cocktail healthy

As the weather warms up, it’s almost impossible to resist the temptation of a refreshing tipple, so we’ve found 3 things that make a cocktail healthy.

The problem with most cocktails is that they are jam packed with sugar and filled with calories. While they might taste good and leave us feeling merry, we know that they aren’t doing anything beneficial to our bodies. So if you’re looking forward to some delicious cocktails this summer, there’s no need to worry. Here’s how to indulge wisely in the sunshine.

The right spirits

Most spirits used in cocktails are incredibly sweet. Not only this, but they’re then mixed with added sugar syrups and fruit juices, creating a drink that’s pure sugar. So, if you want to cut the cocktail calories, switch from high calorie spirits like amaretto (200 kcal per serving), Irish cream (around 150kcal) and brandy (up to 100kcal), to spirits with less sugar and carbohydrate, like vodka, gin, whisky or rum, which all have around 60 kcal per serving and still make a delicious drink.

Soda mixers

Some of the most famous classic cocktails are the worst culprits when it comes to their calorie content. Worldwide favourites like the margarita, piña colada and strawberry daquiri can have anything from 300-600kcal per serving! Some daquiris even have more than 1,000! That’s a lot for one drink. Of course, the odd serving is fine, but we all know how easily one cocktail can turn into several. So, if you’re looking to cut the calories, or can’t resist the temptation of a second drink – then opt for a lower-calorie option. Cocktails like gin and tonic, vodka soda with lemon and tequila have around a third of the calories of the other drinks (around 100 kcal per glass) – and they still taste good!

Intense flavours

Not only is making your own cocktails incredibly fun, but it also gives you the chance to create your drink wisely. If you don’t want to add sugar-laden syrups or spirits into your drink for flavour, then definitely get creative and try making your own cocktails. Ingredients like citrus fruits – limes or oranges, for instance – can add a refreshing taste to your drink, or add ginger or chilli for a fiery kick. For sweetness, you can also switch to less refined options like liquid stevia or some maple syrup. This way, you can tell how much sugar there is in your drink.