We spend a lot of time thinking about how to make the holidays sparkle. One way is with festive foods and beverages that help us savor the season. We know that holiday cookies and cakes can offer attributes we’re seeking to limit. (Added sugar, calories, and artificial colors, to name a few.) But we may not realize our drinks can too. With a bit of thought and swaps, we can enjoy better-for-you beverages, while still soaking in the season.
A Better Warm Drink
It’s tempting to cozy up with a warm drink from your local barista. However, most are more decadent than you may realize. A medium-size flavored coffee beverage can easily have over 300 calories and around 50 grams of sugar. So when you order, ask for fewer syrup pumps. Choose lower-fat milk to reduce calories and saturated fat. And consider if you really need the add-ons like whipped cream and caramel or chocolate drizzle. For an alternative, try a warm holiday drink made from 100% pure fruit juice. Or make your own Chai latte or Chai-der, a unique blend of chai and warm cider. (You can even boost it with an espresso shot!)
A Twist on Tradition
Pass on traditional eggnog and try Banana Nog instead, which has no added sugar and very little saturated fat. Make it yours with your preferred spices and flavorings. And pass on mulling packets with sugar and artificial flavorings. Prepare your own mulled cider with warm spices and no added sugar instead.
Sneak in Some Probiotics
A healthy immune system begins with a healthy gut, so why not enjoy probiotic-rich drinks that help it along. Try fermented drinks like kefir or kombucha. Or try tea or sparkling beverages with added probiotics. New prebiotic-rich products, like Olipop or Poppi, can also be found in your local grocery store. If you are looking to replace full sugar soft drinks these could be an option for you. However, the health benefits of prebiotic beverages have not been proven and even though the quantity is significantly less than regular soda, they do contain added sugar.
Limit Alcohol
Alcohol consumption can negatively affect our health in many ways. During the holiday season, we may find ourselves at more events and gatherings with alcohol—potentially several nights a week. If we aren’t mindful, we could consume it several nights in a row or in unsafe amounts. Try to limit intake or pass on alcohol altogether with fun mocktails. Make a vibrant holiday punch or blend sparkling water and a twist of lime with a mixer.
Alternative Simple Syrups
Simple syrups are traditionally made with sugar (a lot of it). To avoid excess sugar you could use a puree of fruit or a splash of 100% fruit juice to add some flavor and a little sweetness. There are also simple syrups you can purchase that contain non-nutritive sweeteners instead. These sweeteners are made to taste very sweet. But they aren’t metabolized like sugar and don’t contribute calories or sugar to your day. If this interests you, consider products containing natural, non-nutritive sweeteners like stevia and/or monk fruit.
Cheers to Guiding Stars Beverages
Lean on Guiding Stars when you’re seeking beverages that support good health. Our beverage algorithm is designed to help you locate options with less added sugar, artificial colors, and other attributes you’re seeking to limit or avoid. You’ll also be able to easily find functional beverages and other options to make part of your regular routine.