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There is a lot that can be said about the different types of alcohol. Some are considered to be aphrodisiac drinks, while others are a great base for classic cocktails. Alcoholic drinks are typically associated with going out and having fun with friends, rather than being something healthy. However, things are never black and white.
There are health benefits of drinking wine, benefits of vodka, benefits of palm wine, and brandy benefits. Each of these types of alcohol is among the healthiest alcohol you can buy and enjoy neat or in a mixed drink. The good news, however, is that these are not the only alcoholic drinks that have health benefits.
If you want to fill your beverage menu with the healthiest alcohol and cocktail drinks, you should read the article. In case you already have these drinks on your menu, you can use this information we are about to share in your marketing materials. There has been a huge emphasis on health and well-being in the last few years, so pointing out the benefits of certain drinks can help make more sales and increase your profits.
10 Healthiest Alcohol and Cocktails Drinks to Serve
If you’re looking to offer healthier alcohol drinks at your bar or restaurant, consider the ones we suggest below. All of the drinks on the list balance low calories with fewer sugars and bring some health benefits. Let’s dive deep!
Key Takeaway: If you want to enjoy a few drinks but choose from the healthiest alcohol, you need to stick to these popular options that can bring health benefits. When consumed in moderation, the person enjoying them may experience positive effects.
1. Red Wine
There is no surprise that red wine is the first drink on our healthiest alcohol list! Red wine, particularly varieties like Pinot Noir or Merlot, contains antioxidants such as resveratrol, which may offer heart health benefits. A standard 5-ounce glass is relatively low in calories and is a sophisticated option for those looking to enjoy alcohol in moderation. When you offer some of the best wine pairing options around, your customers will enjoy sharing a bottle or wine by the glass.
2. Mulled Wine
What’s great about mulled wine is that it combines the benefits of red wine with those of the vitamin C-rich fruits that are in it. The spices used in mulled wine, which include cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, are packed with antioxidants. This drink can easily be added to your seasonal menu for winter and can be enjoyed even by those looking for gluten-free drinks!
3. Champagne
Champagne and other sparkling wines are typically lower in calories compared to other types of wine, with about 90 calories per 4-ounce serving. Opt for Brut varieties, which have less sugar than sweeter versions if you are looking for a healthier drink. Low-carb wine in general is considered to be healthier and in that regard, the prosecco vs. champagne battle is won by the latter.
4. Craft Brews
Similar to wine, moderate beer consumption, whether in the form of ale or lager, may be linked to a lower risk of heart disease. Beer boasts antioxidants comparable to those in wine, but the specific compounds vary due to the use of barley and hops instead of grapes.
With higher levels of protein and B vitamins, beer might offer a better nutritional profile than wine. The type of yeast, brewing temperature, and brewing duration all affect the final product, impacting not only the taste, color, and alcohol content of your beer but also the concentration of beneficial plant compounds.
Remember there are plenty of great craft beer and food pairings you can make, so stock up your beverage inventory on the best cold ones you can get. Your customers will love quality beer and knowing they can benefit from it will make their experience even better!
5. Low-Alcohol Beer
The benefits linked to moderate beer consumption can also be gained from low- or alcohol-free beers. These beers still provide the protective effects of natural plant compounds, as demonstrated in a study on wheat beer with an ABV of 0.5%, which showed reduced post-exercise inflammation and an isotonic impact that aids in hydration for marathon runners.
Additionally, hops, a crucial ingredient in beer, are rich in plant estrogens, which may offer health benefits for menopausal women when consumed in moderation.
6. Vodka and Gin
With higher alcohol content and fewer healthy plant compounds compared to wine, beer, or craft cider, alcoholic spirits typically offer fewer health benefits. However, their high alcohol concentration can slow gastric emptying, potentially resulting in a slower absorption rate into the bloodstream.
Opt for clear spirits over dark ones like whiskey, as clear spirits contain fewer congeners. These are the ones that make it to the healthiest alcohol list every time. Congeners enhance taste, color, and aroma but can worsen hangover symptoms.
While spirits are generally lower in calories and sugar than wine or beer, adding sugary mixers can increase both significantly. Instead, enjoy your favorite spirit 'on the rocks' to keep it lighter and healthier.
7. Vodka Soda
This clear spirit paired with a low-sugar mixer provides a low-calorie, low-sugar option, free from the congeners that can intensify hangovers. Enhance it with a squeeze of lime for a refreshing twist. Alternatively, try our gin fizz, a versatile recipe that you can customize to your liking while keeping sugar levels minimal. Vodka Soda is a favorite of many people already, so just remind them it can be found in the healthiest alcohol list and they will be more likely to order it.
8. Bloody Mary
Mixing tomato and lemon juice with vodka, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce creates a popular drink that offers a significant health boost. The juices provide essential nutrients like potassium, sodium, and vitamin C, along with the heart-healthy antioxidant lycopene. While a virgin Bloody Mary is the healthiest choice, using clear spirits in the alcoholic version can help minimize hangover symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Healthiest Alcohol and Cocktail Drinks
If you want to know more about the healthiest alcohol and cocktail drinks you can serve at your bar or restaurant, read the following paragraphs. We will answer some of the most frequently asked questions to give you more insight!
Is Wine Better for You than Other Alcoholic Drinks?
Red wine, in particular, is often considered healthier due to its antioxidant content, such as resveratrol, which may promote heart health. However, moderation is key, and other alcoholic drinks like beer, champagne, and clear spirits with healthy mixers can also be part of a balanced lifestyle.
Are Clear Spirits Healthier than Dark Spirits?
Clear spirits, such as vodka and gin, are generally considered healthier than dark spirits because they contain fewer congeners, which are compounds that can worsen hangover symptoms. They are also typically lower in calories and can be paired with low-sugar mixers for a healthier drink option.
How Can Adding Certain Juices to Cocktails Enhance Their Health Benefits?
Adding juices like tomato or lemon juice to cocktails can enhance their health benefits by providing essential vitamins and minerals. For example, tomato juice offers potassium, sodium, and the antioxidant lycopene, while lemon juice adds vitamin C and a refreshing zest.