For more than half of my clients, bubbly drinks or cocktails are a big part of the holidays. You actually can enjoy these wisely without guilt and without gain, but it takes some strategy.
For my 20+ years as a dietitian, I’ve seen Halloween weekend begin the downward slope beginning the winter holiday padding. It doesn’t have to be!
So, I rounded up some advice regarding holiday festivity tips regarding cocktails from my fabulous RD-colleagues so you can start the holidays off smart if you decide to indulge (PLUS I’ve got a fun, app-based program you can jump into for November and December to help you avoid the impending downward spiral I mentioned AND to help you reduce holiday stress!) Accountability is the secret sauce to get you through the holidays brilliantly!
TIP 1
“I lessen the calorie load and alcohol content by also making a spritzer with carbonated water. Additionally, I am a huge believer in the alternate rule! After each boozy beverage, have a glass of water. And lastly, don’t keep topping off that wine glass. It’s so easy to lose track of how much you have consumed! Pour a glass (5 ounce). Enjoy. Follow wine with a glass of water. Oh and for mimosas or other champagne cocktails, I go VERY light on the mixers. Saves calories and lets you enjoy that champagne taste.”
–Caroline Susie
TIP 2
“I usually enjoy one cocktail. I know that more doesn’t taste better, it’s just more. But that ONE sure does taste good! Then will have a sparking water, such as La Croix. I appreciate when hostess has a non-alcoholic option.”
–Judy Barbe
TIP 3
“Don’t show up to a party on an empty stomach. If you’re hungry and thirsty upon arrival, it’s easy to get tipsy quicker than planned, even if you do moderate your alcohol intake at the party. Have a small protein and fiber-rich snack about 1-2 hours before the event to put something in your stomach (apple with peanut butter).
Also, when you’re at the party, make sure to swap out a few rounds for water or seltzer, especially when you’re talking and catching up with friends. It’s easy for beverages to go down quicker when we’re chatting up a storm, so alternating non-alcoholic beverages will be a power move.”
– Mandy Enright
TIP 4
“I like to have flavored, sparkling water available. And if I know I want to have more than one drink I will make them half strength (if possible – easier with mixed drinks!). I will normally do 1/2 shot spirit, mostly seltzer/club soda, and a splash of regular juice or soda. Or I sign up to be DD! Easy excuse :).”
–Erin Burke
TIP 5
“Creating a plan before you arrive is a simple but strategic way to enjoy alcohol in moderation. You might decide to have a cocktail during the social hour and a glass of wine with dinner. By deciding in advance, and telling your partner or a friend, you can pace yourself while still enjoying your beverage of choice!”
–Jennifer Hunt
We all need some holiday strategy and accountability so we don’t have SORRY holidays!
Join me for my 8-week app-based program to lower stress for this season and to help you splurge strategically: check out my Holiday 600 Strategy here. I’ve even got a 2-month EASY menu plan for you that your whole family will love! It’s going to be FUN!
TIP 6
“When you arrive to a holiday party, drink water before having a cocktail. Chances are you are dehydrated, so you would drink the cocktail too fast if you start with it. By drinking water first, you hydrate and slow down your drinking, making your alcoholic beverage last longer.”
–Kristi Coughlin
TIP 7
“One of my best tips is with the spirits! I know many RDs have dined with me and laughed when I order a shot of tequila and glass of club soda, but, I can keep the actual portion in check of the spirit without getting 2-3 times that amount in a well drink. Mix that into a club soda, add a lemon and lime and viola, a healthy, hydrating drink!”
–Elizabeth Shaw
TIP 8
“I enjoy lower alcohol wines — they leave me feeling much better the next day. While a difference of 2% may not seem like a lot — between a 12% Chianti and a 14% Shiraz, for instance — the effect it has on you is noticeable. If you’re able to choose your own wines for holiday parties, etc., be sure to check the label. You’ll end up drinking “less alcohol” overall simply by choosing a wine with a lower alcohol content.”
-Regan Jones
Enjoy your holiday season, keeping moderation in mind, and savoring each sip mindfully.
Be sure to check out my Holiday 600 Strategy here. We start Monday (prep days are Saturday and Sunday). I’m ready to zip you your 2-month EASY menu plan and support you daily for your most happy-healthy holidays yet!
