The sugar rush you get from classic drinks like margaritas and frozen daiquiris just aren’t worth the headache. A quick tip to cutting down on sugars at the bar: seltzers, soda waters, limes, lemons, and oranges are your flavor friends, and sometimes taking your drink neat is the best option. Skip the syrups and bubbly drinks since they’re sneakily loaded with sugars. Cutting down on sugar can be hard, especially when you’re going on a tropical vacation. But opting out of sugary drinks can be beneficial for your health and can decrease your risk for certain diseases.
Moderation is important to remember the next time you’re at the beach bar. Here are some of the best low-sugar cocktails that won’t give you a headache later on.
Tequila or Vodka Soda with Lime
You can’t go wrong when ordering this classic cocktail. No sugar essentially means no hangover because you’re not sipping on a fruity drink. If you’re looking for a little flavor, order a vodka soda with a splash of cranberry juice. If you’re missing your beachside margarita, order a tequila soda with limes and oranges for a similar flavor.
Red or White Wine
Wine is a girl’s best friend. You may not think about ordering wine while you’re on the beach, but it’s better than ordering a sugar-packed sangria. Not to mention that red wine is can benefit your health if enjoyed in moderation. It’s packed with antioxidants, lowers “bad cholesterol,” and lowers the risk of blood clotting. White wine tends to have less calories than red wine and is known to improve your metabolism, helps lung function, and can improve cholesterol levels.
#SpoonTip: Try a Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Pinot Nior for red wine. Or Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc the next time you’re at the bar.
Moscow Mule
With only 9.9 grams of sugar, this refreshing drink will quench your thirst under the sun. A Moscow Mule is made with vodka, lime, and ginger beer and is traditionally served in a copper mug. You’ll be hooked after one sip.
Bloody Mary
I’m not sure who decided to make Bloody Mary a brunch drink, but we praise him. Only tomato juice, vodka, spices, and hot sauce are needed to make this drink. Hold the alcohol to make it a Virgin Mary. And no, just because there’s a celery stick, it does not count as a vegetable.
Mint Julep
The signature drink of the Kentucky Derby, a Mint Julep is made with bourbon, water, mint, and simple syrup. This drink only contains about 3 grams of sugar and is refreshing without being too sweet.
Gin and Soda Water
Tonic water contains an unnecessary amount of sugar and calories. Ask for soda water the next time you go for a gin and tonic, and ask for extra lime wedges to boost the flavor. This is my go to cocktail when I’m trying to watch my sugar intake.
Mimosa
I know orange juice is loaded with sugar, but if it’s freshly squeezed OJ you don’t have to add any additional sugar. Replace half of the Champagne with seltzer water to make it a healthier mimosa and garnish with orange slices for extra flavor.
These low-sugar cocktails will sure shake up your summer or spring break. Keep in mind that moderation is key. By all means, order a frozen margarita or mojito, but get a few lower sugar cocktails as well so you don’t get a sugar high.