This year, consider making a resolution to reflect on your relationship with alcohol and give “Dry January” a go.
This campaign officially launched in 2010 to encourage people to recognize the health effects alcohol has on the body.
Taking a break from alcohol can have a positive effect on whole health. Some benefits you might see are:
Improved sleep and recovery. This is especially important during cold and flu season.
Positive impact on many health conditions. According to the National Institute of Health, more than 10% of high blood pressure in men is alcohol-related. Cutting back on alcohol can help you reach your health goals this year.
Enhanced mental wellness. The winter months can be associated with season blues, which the effects of alcohol can further impact.
Overall improved nutrition. Over time, excess alcohol intake may lead to B vitamin and zinc deficiencies. Avoiding alcohol spares calories for foods filled with protein, fiber and vitamins.
Making mocktails
A mocktail is a drink that contains no alcohol but resembles and tastes like those that do.
Here is a simple formula to build the perfect mocktail:
4 parts base (sparkling water, tea, fruit juice, soda)
1 part sour (citrus juice, tart cherry juice, cranberry juice, apple cider vinegar)
1/2 part sweet (apple juice, simple syrup, maple syrup, honey)
Consider presentation. Spruce up a mocktail by presenting it in a nice glass with an oversized ice cube. Consider a garnish as well. A quick twist can be made at home with a sharp knife and any citrus fruit.
Add to the drink’s complexity. Consider adding a few dashes of nonalcoholic bitters or flavored simple syrup to add interest to your mocktail. Simple syrup is easy to make at home: Boil a 1:1 water and sugar mixture until dissolved, then let cool. Try adding fruit, spices or herbs while boiling. Some winter favorites include ginger, rosemary and fig.
Mocktails can be made on ice, frozen or warm, however you prefer. This is a great chance to get creative.
Keep the holiday festivities going with this cranberry-rosemary sparkler. Check here for more mocktail ideas to keep spirits high this winter.
If you are interested in this or any other nutrition-related topic, contact your local VA to speak with a registered dietitian.
If you’re struggling to reduce your alcohol intake, talk to your VA care team or learn more here.