Between year-end functions, Christmas parties, family gatherings and the impending New Year, our social calendars are jam-packed! The other thing that gets jam-packed? Our liver. Our kidneys. Our bellies.
Read more: This is the best alcohol to drink if you want to lose weight
But not all alcohol is equal. If you’re going to be indulging, try sticking to choices that will give you some benefits too (and like with anything, keep it in moderation):
1. Bubbly
Call it Champagne, MCC, bubbly… it’s all the same thing with a whack of nutrients. The phenolic acid in bubbly has been proven to help improve memory in the long run and the polyphenols can help reduce blood clots! MCCs also contain far less sugar than wine, but if you’re looking for a super-low sugar alternative, look out for brands that say Brut Zero. We recommend Graham Beck’s Brut Zero.
2. Red wine
Our most-fave tipsy tidbit: red wine is actually good for you. Yes, thanks to its antioxidant resveratrol. Try drink lighter styles, such as Pinot Noir, and keep it slightly chilled for summery refreshment.
Read more: Everything you need to know about alcohol and weight gain
3. Vodka
Vodka is lower in kilojoules than other spirits – sorry gin! To stay away from excess sugar, mix your vodka with sparkling water and fresh lime or orange juice. This way you stay hydrated and the fruit takes away some of the sharp alcoholic flavour.
4. Light beer
Our go-to favourite is Windhoek Light because it’s light in alcohol and kilojoules at only 300kJ per bottle and 2.4% alcohol. Castle Lite is the next best bet at 4% alcohol and 413kJ.
5. Tequila
While we’re not suggesting you down a bucket load, if you’re going to be doing shots, choose tequila over those sugar-packed coffee-chocolatey flavoured spirits. And we mean real 100% agave, like El Jimador. The agavins lower triglycerides and cholesterol levels.
Just remember to drink enough water in between and don’t drink on an empty stomach.
This article was originally featured on www.womenshealthsa.co.za
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