Want to make your cocktails healthy? Here are easy alternatives

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Mumbai is buzzing with new food and drink options every other day. While earlier people indulged in every variety, diners have become very health conscious over the years. This has led to many not only checking the kind of food they eat at home but also at restaurants. This has now spilled over into the cocktails they sip on.

Every year, World Cocktail Day is observed on May 13 to celebrate the potent mixtures. While the classics are favourites, newer cocktails are changing the way people perceive them. While some may opt to complete avoid cocktails, there are others who have found their way around it by telling the bartenders what they want. Over time, this has led to the popularity of low-calorie cocktails, a trend that has grown into more restaurants serving healthy cocktails.

Jinal Patel, dietitian at Zynova Shalby Hospital in Ghatkopar says an ideal cocktail can be healthy if it has anywhere between 100-150 calories. While reducing the calories is easy, she says people who really love their cocktails can make small tweaks to their recipes that can make a difference.

So, what are the ingredients that can make a cocktail healthy? Patel explains, "A cocktail can be made healthier by adding fresh, natural ingredients and limiting added sugars. Swap sugary mixers and syrups for fresh fruit juices, herbs like mint or basil." She further says that adding ingredients rich in antioxidants can also helping. "Adding berries, citrus, lime juice, honey, avocado, or pomegranate can also boost nutrition. Avoid preservatives and excess sugar."

Reducing calorie intake
The Mumbai health expert further says, "Replace cream or coconut cream with coconut water or almond milk to keep the calories in check. Opt for natural sweeteners like honey or stevia instead of refined sugar, which can lead to weight gain. Fresh herbs and citrus can also enhance flavour without adding extra calories."

Even as she makes these suggestions for healthy cocktails, she says people should remember to drink in moderation. "Alcohol itself adds calories and can impact overall health. It can lead to obesity. So, a balanced approach makes enjoying cocktails both refreshing and mindful."