The holiday season is synonymous with indulging in delicious holiday drinks, but not all are created equal when it comes to their impact on your health. Let’s take a closer look at 10 popular holiday beverages, ranked from best to worst for your health.
1. Herbal Tea
Best for Your Health: Herbal teas, such as peppermint or chamomile, are excellent options for a healthier holiday beverage. They are caffeine-free, rich in antioxidants, and can promote relaxation and digestion.
Health Perspective: Herbal teas are a favorite among health enthusiasts and are widely recommended by nutritionists for their various health benefits.
2. Hot Cocoa with Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
Moderately Healthy: Hot cocoa made with unsweetened cocoa powder offers the nostalgic comfort of the classic holiday drink while providing a good dose of antioxidants from cocoa.
Health Perspective: While it’s important to avoid adding excessive sugar and opting for unsweetened cocoa powder, this indulgent beverage can still be enjoyed in moderation.
3. Spiced Apple Cider
Moderately Healthy: Spiced apple cider, particularly when made with minimal added sugar, can be a relatively healthy option. Apples are rich in fiber and vitamin C, and the spices offer potential health benefits.
Health Perspective: When enjoyed in moderation and without excessive sweeteners, spiced apple cider can be a wholesome choice for the holidays.
(If you’re interested in learning about the benefits of Vitamin C, I suggest checking out this informative article.)
4. Peppermint Mocha (Moderate on Health)
Moderate: Peppermint mocha contains coffee, which has its own health benefits, but the added sugar and calories from the mocha mix make it a less healthy option.
Health Perspective: While the indulgent nature of this beverage should be kept in mind, some may view it as a permissible treat during the festive season.
5. Eggnog
Moderate to Unhealthy: Eggnog is a rich and creamy drink traditionally made with eggs, cream, and sugar. It’s high in calories, saturated fat, and sugar, making it a less healthy choice.
Health Perspective: Many consider eggnog to be a classic holiday treat, but it’s important to consume it in moderation due to its high calorie and fat content.
6. White Chocolate Peppermint Mocha
Less Healthy: A step up in terms of sugar and calories, the white chocolate peppermint mocha is a more indulgent version of the traditional peppermint mocha.
Health Perspective: This beverage is best viewed as an occasional treat due to its high sugar and fat content.
7. Mulled Wine
Less Healthy: While red wine in moderation has been linked to certain health benefits, mulled wine often includes added sugar and is best consumed in moderation.
Health Perspective: While some may appreciate the warming and festive nature of mulled wine, it’s important to be mindful of the added sugars and potential negative health effects of excessive alcohol consumption.
8. Hot Buttered Rum
Unhealthy: Hot buttered rum is a calorie-dense and high-fat beverage, with the potential to contribute to weight gain and other health issues when consumed in excess.
Health Perspective: Despite its popularity during the holidays, hot buttered rum is best enjoyed sparingly due to its high calorie and fat content.
9. Peppermint White Hot Chocolate
Unhealthy: The peppermint white hot chocolate is an extremely indulgent drink, typically loaded with sugar, saturated fat, and calories.
Health Perspective: While it may be tempting to indulge in this rich beverage, its health drawbacks should be considered when enjoying it.
10. Festive Alcoholic Cocktails with Syrups and Cream
Worst for Your Health: Festive cocktails that include syrups, cream, and various liqueurs can be extremely high in sugar, calories, and unhealthy fats.
Health Perspective: These cocktails should be enjoyed sparingly, with full awareness of their potential negative impact on health when consumed in excess.
If you’re interested in learning about sugar detox, I suggest checking out this informative article.
Conclusion:
During the holiday season, embrace a multitude of delicious holiday drinks. Endeavor to spoil yourself while also prioritizing your health. Stay mindful of how these holiday drinks might affect your well-being. Take pleasure in the seasonal flavors with a sense of consciousness. Reflect on the health effects of the holiday drinks you choose. Strive to strike a harmonious balance between enjoyment and wellness throughout this holiday season.
Sources
- WebMD, Health Benefits of Cocoa Powder
- American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Coffee and health: what we still don't know
- Harvard Health Publishing, Is moderate drinking heart-healthy?
