Believe it or not, in the expanding alcoholic beverage market, there is a segment specifically made for the “healthy-drinker,” a health-conscious individual with an active lifestyle who wouldn’t mind enjoying an occasional alcoholic beverage. This provides a challenge for alcoholic beverage formulators to create great tasting beverages with low calories. We all know that alcohol and healthy don’t mix, however, for some of us, drinking is a routine part of parties, birthdays, weddings, holidays, sporting events, barbecues, etc. I’m a fan of beer, but not beer bellies, so I tend to notice all the “light” and “diet” products at the liquor store. Here are some ways the beverage industry is providing solutions for this market:
    
Skinny Margaritas: The Skinnygirl brand came up with skinny margaritas which contain only 100 calories and 5 grams of sugar (sweetened with agave nectar) per 5 oz serving. The average margarita at a bar can be anywhere from 300 to 800 calories, thanks to an abundance of simple sugars. These margaritas are premixed, so all you have to do is serve over ice and enjoy!

Savannah Tea: Smirnoff created a pre-mixed cocktail that combines their original Smirnoff Red Label Vodka with real brewed tea and a twist of Meyer Lemon Liqueur. Just pour over ice and serve with a fresh lemon wedge. The tea adds lots of flavor and plenty of quench-ability. Why not enjoy your drink with some beneficial antioxidants?

Ultra-Light Beer: Miller Genuine Draft 64 and Budweiser Select 55: These beers are the lightest of beers choices for the most calorie-conscious drinker. If you don’t mind a lower percentage of alcohol (2.8% and 2.4% abv) and a watered down flavor, then these beers are for you.

Light Hard Lemonade: The maker of Mike’s Hard Lemonade has come out with a light version of their popular lemonade beverage at less than half the calories of the original: 98 to 220 calories respectively.

Michelob ULTRA Light Cider: A fermented alcoholic drink made from apple juice with a tart, fresh apple taste. There’s only 120 calories in this crisp, light and refreshing beverage. It’s sweetened with stevia, a natural sweetener.

One thing we know for sure is that regularly drinking in excess is very unhealthy for your liver and your waistline. As long as you practice moderation and live an active lifestyle, then these drinks are a great place to start. And please don’t forget to drink responsibly!