Yes, your favorite sodas and cocktails have extensive calories in them, but that’s no reason you can’t drink socially, watch your sugar intake and have a good time too. With Valentine’s Day just a few days away, we know you want to celebrate with that special someone so we did some research and came up with…
Three Zero and Low-Sugar Drinks to Order Out
Gin, Vodka and Whiskey.
Surprise! “Spirits, such as gin, vodka, whiskey and even rum are highly distilled and should not contain sugars,” according to Diabetes.co.uk. “With spirits the consideration is more on what they are mixed with.”
And we agree. While straight, alcoholic beverages may not contain much sugar, they can be high on calories and not a healthy drink choice. But if you really want to enjoy an alcoholic beverage, order a mixed drink with healthier options.
For example, look at mixes that contain natural ingredients like real fruit juice, ginger, lemon, or honey. And ensure that the tonic or seltzer-water is sugar-free too.
Wine.
Yes, wine contains fructose, or sugar, from grapes. But it contains lower amounts than most social drinks, and wine can actually be good for you in moderation. If you want to celebrate, it’s o.k. to have a glass of red wine. Just choose one with a low, sugar content.
“To keep the calorie count low from both sugar and alcohol in a glass of wine, stick with dry wines,” states Christine Lehmann, a certified holistic nutritionist, in her article at The Washington Post. She suggests:
- White: sauvignon blanc, Italian pinot grigio, viognier, and chardonnay
- Red: cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, pinot noir and syrah
- French rosé from Provence or Languedoc
- Brut sparkling wine
Make a Personal Request.
Depending on the restaurant, you may be able to order a variety of zero or low-sugar drinks… even if you aren’t a VIP. Ask the server for recommendations. They may have green and infused teas, fresh vegetable juices, special coffees, and seltzer-water drinks.
To increase your chances of finding the perfect drink, choose a restaurant known for their fresh ingredients, healthy recipes and customer service.
Don’t Despair. Fun, Sugarless Drinks are Out There!
If you want to stick to your Daily Sugar Allowance, it’s essential to avoid sodas, mixed cocktails, beer, and champagne. But don’t get discouraged! While it may be frustrating to find fun, sugarless drinks, it’s not impossible.
There are plenty of choices available with zero to very little sugar. You just need to conduct some research in advance. After all, there are new, healthier beverages being introduced all the time. And when things get really dire, you can always make your own, healthy cocktail at home and take it to a restaurant that allows you to BYO.
Now, go and have some fun with your special Valentine!
Please share your thoughts below, and for more helpful tips and motivation, check out the“My Daily Sugar Allowance” information here.
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