Eat, Drink & Be Merry

Here are some suggestions for holiday drinks with a few less calories. Drink a minimum of 2 glasses of water between cocktails. This will keep you hydrated. Remember to minimize your overall alcoholic intake!

1. Sparkling non-alcoholic punch. The calories can vary, but most holiday punch can easily be diluted with additional sparkling water to reduce calories and sugars. If you are making your own punch at home, use unsweetened cranberry juice concentrate.
2. Red wine. The antioxidant activity of red wine has been linked to heart health benefits, reduced stress and even preserving memory. Limit yourself to a six-ounce glass; it typically has about 120 calories.
3. Hot toddy. A combination of lemon, honey, cinnamon, cloves and brandy, this beverage has between 100 and 150 calories and provides some vitamin C thanks to the lemon juice.
4. Champagne. This celebratory drink has about 90 calories in a four-ounce glass.

Drinks to Avoid:

1. Eggnog: Made with milk, cream, sugar and eggs, eggnog can pack up to 460 calories in an eight-ounce serving - not including calories from alcohol. Think of it as an indulgent dessert and limit yourself during the holidays; sip it slowly to savor the taste.
2. White Russians. The added sugars in this cream-and-Kahlua concoction can have as much as 460 calories in an eight-ounce serving.
3. Hot Buttered Rum. Hot melted butter, rum and brown sugar make this holiday classic top out at around 350 calories per eight-ounce serving.
4. Tom and Jerry. A "hot-rod" version of eggnog, this combination of eggs, milk, rum and spices often has between 340 and 460 calories per eight-ounce serving.

Happy Holidays,

Jacqueline