The Healthiest Alcoholic Drink

The words “alcohol” and “healthy” don’t typically go hand-in-hand. Drinking alcohol is often touted as “empty calories,” with little — if any — health benefits — and a number of adverse effects. While this is generally true, if you do choose to indulge in an alcoholic beverage from time to time, some spirits are healthier than others. Here’s what to look for next time you peruse a drinks menu.

Red Wine

When it comes to the healthiest alcoholic drink, experts agree that a glass of red wine is the best option. It is full of necessary chemicals that are good for your body in the present and prolong life. Red wine has antioxidants, which have positive benefits for your blood, heart, and skin. 

Hard Kombucha

When you’re having a fun night out, it’s tempting to get something fizzy and bubbly, like a drink mixed with soda or a hard cider. Both of those options, however, carry a ton of sugar. When in doubt, opt for a hard kombucha instead to help your gut. While there’s still a fair amount of sugar, you’ll still reap the benefits of its probiotics.

Clear Alcohols

Most spirits won’t be too damaging to your health if consumed in moderation, but if you’re looking for more holistic options at the bar or the liquor store, consider options that are light on sugar through other means. Spirits, especially clear ones like vodka, tequila, and gin, are pretty pure unto themselves and gain virtually no calories when mixed with soda water. 

Hard Seltzers

Similarly, hard seltzers are usually devoid of the sugars that go into most cocktails, and their reliance on sweetener alternatives makes them an excellent low-calorie option. They’re also gluten-free, which makes them a good alternative to a calorie-rich beer. 

Bloody Marys

Because this brunch staple is made primarily from tomato juice, it’s low in sugar and has vitamins and antioxidants that you won’t find in many other alcoholic beverages. The fresh vegetables that often garnish a bloody Mary, such as celery and green olives, also pack extra nutritional value.

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