The holidays are full of reasons to celebrate—and yes, to indulge a little! But just because you’re raising a glass doesn’t mean you have to raise the calorie count. With a few easy, smart swaps, you can create cocktails that are just as festive, delicious, and weight-loss friendly as they are fun to drink. Here’s a few low-calorie cocktails to try and tips for how to mix up a drink you’ll love that won’t derail your weight loss progress.
Festive & Fresh: Winter Citrus Sparkler – GLP Elite™
This Winter Citrus Sparkler is all about bright flavors and light bubbles—perfect for any holiday occasion. The drink combines fresh lime juice and club soda to keep it light and and crisp, while grapefruit adds a seasonal touch.
- Ingredients: 1.5 oz vodka, fresh lime juice, club soda, and a slice of grapefruit for garnish.
- Calories: ~90 per serving
Cool & Colorful: Frozen Berry Bliss – GLP Elite™
The Berry Merry Fizz is not just a cocktail; it’s like a winter wonderland in a glass. Blend fresh berries with ice and vodka for a chilled, vibrant drink that feels like a treat. The berries bring a pop of color to your glass for even more holiday fun.
- Ingredients: 1.5 oz vodka, fresh raspberries or blackberries, club soda, ice, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Calories: ~100 per serving.
Warm Spice of the Season: Ginger Grapefruit Mule – GLP Elite™
This Spicy Ginger Grapefruit Mule is anything but ordinary. Fresh grapefruit and ginger come together for a mix that’s both spicy and sweet, giving you a holiday-inspired flavor without any added sugar. With a warm kick and zesty citrus, it’s like a cozy holiday hug in a glass.
- Ingredients: 1.5 oz tequila, fresh grapefruit juice, thin slices of fresh ginger, and club soda.
- Calories: ~110 per serving.
A Simple Sparkler: Lime-Mint Spritzer – GLP Elite™
The Lime-Mint Spritzer is a light and crisp drink that’s festive for any holiday gathering. Plus, a hint of Stevia adds a touch of sweetness without any added calories so that you can stay on track over the holidays.
- Ingredients: 1.5 oz rum, fresh mint leaves, fresh lime juice, club soda, and a dash of Stevia.
- Calories: ~90 per serving.
Fresh & Sophisticated: Cucumber Basil Fizz – GLP Elite™
This Cucumber Basil Fizz offers a unique spin on a holiday cocktail. The cucumber and basil create a fresh, clean taste while the gin and club soda make it feel light and festive, making it ideal as a pre-dinner drink.
- Ingredients: 1.5 oz gin, fresh cucumber slices, fresh lime juice, and club soda.
- Calories: ~95 per serving.
Holiday Color in Every Glass: Berry Red Sangria – GLP Elite™
When you need a party-ready drink, reach for this Berry Red Sangria. With fresh berries, red wine, and club soda, it’s packed with festive flavors without all the sugar. Every sip gives you the classic sangria taste with a seasonal holiday twist.
- Ingredients: 3 oz dry red wine, fresh raspberries and blackberries, a squeeze of lemon juice, and club soda.
- Calories: ~120 per serving.
A Warm Holiday Hug: Hot Toddy – GLP Elite™
Looking for low-calorie version of a classic? This Hot Toddy does just that. Fresh lime juice and club soda keep it light, while a jalapeño slice brings the heat—perfect for chilly winter nights.
- Ingredients: 1.5 oz vodka, a slice of jalapeño (optional), fresh lime juice, and club soda.
- Calories: ~110 per serving.
Tips for Making Your Cocktails Weight-Loss Friendly (& Delicious!)
- Go Clear for Fewer Calories: Vodka, tequila, and gin are typically lower in calories than darker spirits like whiskey or run. Plus, they blend well with fresh flavors like lime or herbs, so your cocktail tastes delicious without the added sugars.
- Choose Fresh Over Processed: The secret to a flavorful, low-calorie cocktail is fresh ingredients. Fresh juices, muddled herbs, and wedges of lemon or lime can elevate your drink without the extra sugar that comes with pre-made mixers.
- Use Zero-Calorie Sweeteners: Swap sugary syrups for natural options like Stevia or monk fruit. These zero-calorie sweeteners add just the right hint of sweetness the extra calories. Remember that a little goes a long way, so you can keep that cocktail sweet and satisfying while staying on track with your weight loss goals.
- Stick to Standard Serving Sizes: It’s easy to get a little generous when pouring your favorite cocktail, but those extra ounces can add up fast. Stick to standard serving sizes—usually 1.5 ounces for spirits like vodka, gin, or tequila—to keep calories low.
Raise a glass to your health and happiness this holiday season! Book an appointment today and let us help you stay on track with your weight loss goals while still enjoying the festivities.
