4 Holiday Drinks To Avoid This Season

1 min

During the holidays, parties and gatherings are sure to be part of your social calendar. As you make the rounds, you can reduce your intake of empty calories by being aware of unhealthy drinks that are popular this time of year and minimizing your overall alcohol consumption during the holiday season.

1. Eggnog: Made with milk, cream, sugar and eggs, eggnog can pack up to 460 calories in an eight-ounce serving – not including the calories from alcohol. Think of it as an over-indulgent dessert and limit yourself to a single small serving during the holidays. Sip it slowly to savor the taste.
2. White Russians. The fat and sugars in this cream-and-Kahlua concoction contribute to its 460 calories per eight-ounce serving.
3. Hot Buttered Rum. Hot melted butter, rum and brown sugar make this holiday classic top out at around 350 calories per eight-ounce serving.
4. Tom and Jerry. A “ramped up” version of eggnog, this combination of eggs, milk, rum and spices often has between 340 and 460 calories per eight-ounce serving.

Keep in mind that generally, it’s more important to limit the sugars than the fats in these drinks and that alcohol contributes to empty carb calories as well. Both the sugar and the alcohol tend to lead to more carb cravings combined with lower inhibitions, a bad combination for your nutrition this season.  Go into your holiday parties with a plan, and start building momentum for a successful, healthy new year. For more information, check out our visual guide to healthy and unhealthy holiday drinks!

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