We shared in a recent post that new studies have uncovered additional information that points to the benefits of limiting alcohol intake. For many, one of the hardest aspects of cutting back on drinking is still wanting to enjoy a delicious beverage. Most often, that drink is also associated with another element. It can be something that’s become a routine while socializing, it can mark the end of a long day, or is seen as a “must” during a period of relaxation. While water is always a great option (and great for your health!), it doesn’t always quench the craving for something tasty and refreshing. To get the best of both worlds, try one of these healthy non-alcoholic drinks. There are a variety of options- from mocktails to smoothies, and fermented drinks that also help support your gut health.
Get creative! Just as with anything else, the most difficult part of reducing or omitting alcohol from your diet is getting in the routine. These drinks can be just as enjoyable and support your health at the same time- all without the side effects and health risks associated with alcohol.
Blood Orange Mocktail
This delicious, simple drink contains blood orange juice, lime juice, some coconut water and seltzer for some bubbles. It’s refreshing and easy to make ahead of time and stash in the refrigerator for future enjoyment.
Orange, Cranberry, Apple Spritzer
Oranges are a summer staple and incorporating the flavor into this refreshing drink adds a taste of the season. This only requires equal parts orange, cranberry, and apple juices (search for low sugar options!), load it up with ice, and garnish with your favorite fruit. Voila! Delicious, refreshing, and guilt-free.
Spiced Mango Smoothie
This delicious smoothie will quickly become your go-to morning drink. It contains mango as well as several spices that benefit the body. Turmeric is a spice known for its anti-inflammatory components and is an excellent antioxidant. Ginger has similar anti-inflammatory effects and is super soothing on the gut. Mango, known for its high levels of vitamin A, C and B6, contains loads of vitamins and minerals that help keep you feeling fuller for longer. Finished off with dairy-free yogurt (but you can also use non-fat, plain Greek yogurt) provides protein and probiotics to get your morning started strong.
Lemon Mint Raspberry Water
While hydration is a key factor in overall wellness and weight maintenance, it’s not always easy to guzzle all the fluids that our body needs. One way to ensure that you drink more is to make the drinks more enticing, without adding on the calories, sugar, and other unhealthy ingredients. This recipe shares how to make refreshing lemon, mint, raspberry water, but you can translate the idea with any fruits and herbs.
Fizzy Blueberry Lemonade
If you are trying to incorporate more liquids into your diet you might be tempted to purchase store-bought beverages. But be cautious when doing so, as many are loaded with sugar, additives (for shelf life), and other unnecessary ingredients. Try this homemade lemonade that is sugar free.
Cucumber Collins
This sugar free option is simple to make, with only a few ingredients. The cucumber is refreshing on a sweltering afternoon, and you won’t have to worry about the effects of alcohol on your body.
Herb Kvass
A kvass is a bubbly, fermented drink that is traditionally made with beets, but can be made with any vegetable that ferments well. This recipe contains rosemary, sage, and thyme, making for a refreshing, aromatic drink that is incredibly easy to make and have on hand at any time of the year. For other great ideas on how to ferment your vegetables, you can also read Fermented Vegetables, a book that shares many wonderful ideas on how to incorporate fermented vegetables into your diet.
Blueberry Kombucha
This recipe has refreshing mint and blueberries, and is E.A.S.Y! The recipe calls for kombucha, and you can learn to make your own here. Once you’ve completed that process, the rest of the recipe is a cinch. If you opt to, you can also purchase a kombucha SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast) starter kit here, rather than make it from scratch. Whichever route you choose to make the kombucha, you’re guaranteed a delicious drink, full of probiotics.
Iced Coconut Matcha Latte
Matcha is a powder made from green tea leaves. It is full of antioxidants, helping support your body’s overall function. This drink is also sugar-free, an added bonus. Substitute almond milk for the coconut milk to shed some of the calories and fat, still adding in a creamy element.
