Mixes and Alcoholic Drinks During Festive Seasons

Find out what’s in alcoholic drinks and how they affect your calorie intake.

Here are two examples of alcoholic drinks popular during the festive season and what’s in each drink.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Bar of chocolate, broken into chunks: Dark chocolate in small amounts reduces low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels (bad fats) and slows down memory decline. Opt for chocolates that are 70 percent cacao (or cocoa, which is cacao in its roasted, ground form).
Milk: Alternatives such as almond and soy milk have lower fat content, but cow’s milk offers a rich source of calcium, a mineral essential for healthy bones and teeth.
Peppermint stick
Sugar: A sugar-laden diet has been linked to weight gain, cavities and an increased risk of heart disease.

Cranberry Margarita

Cranberry juice: Juice is loaded with fructose (natural sugar). Excessive amounts and increased calorie intake can lead to obesity and Type 2 Diabetes.
Lime juice
Tequila (Alcoholic element) In moderation, alcohol is said to help stimulate metabolism, dissolve fats and aid digestion.
Orange-flavoured liqueur (Alcoholic element)
Lime wedges for garnish, if desired: Lime is high in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help to boost the immune system. Lime juice and peel can help decrease fatty streaks in coronary arteries, which are indicators of plaque build-up and subsequent cardiovascular disease.

One for the Road This Festive Season?

Alcoholic beverages are generally high in sugar content and calories — a glass of whisky and Coke contains 250 calories, for example. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to increased calorie intake, major health problems, including liver damage and/or diseases. Chronic heavy drinking is linked to a slew of health conditions including increased risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, brain damage, memory loss, gout and pancreatitis. Always drink in moderation even on special occasions, and never drink and drive.