Health Benefits of Mocktails vs Cocktails

As a Nutritionist and Master Herbalist with a profound enjoyment of creating daily beverage rituals, Mocktails have become an obsession of sorts. I love the idea of creating complex flavor profiles with fresh juices, vegetables, tinctures, teas and other specialty products, such as SOBER(ISH) Drops and Skinny Mixes

In today's health-conscious world, the popularity of mocktails has surged as more people are looking for tasty, refreshing beverages without the negative effects of alcohol. According to a recent report by Grandview Research, the global non-alcoholic beverages market size is expected to reach USD 1.60 trillion by 2025. Whether you're cutting back on drinking or abstaining entirely, mocktails provide a delicious alternative. Let's check out the health benefits of mocktails compared to their alcoholic counterparts.

Health Benefits of Mocktails

1. Reduced Caloric Intake:

Cocktails often come loaded with sugars and high-calorie mixers, contributing to weight gain and other health issues. A standard 8 oz margarita can contain up to 500 calories, while a mojito can have around 240 calories. Mocktails, on the other hand, can be made with fresh juices, herbal teas, and natural sweeteners, significantly reducing caloric intake.

2. Better Hydration:

Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it increases urine production and can lead to dehydration. A study published in the Journal of Physiology found that consuming 50 grams of alcohol (approximately 4 standard drinks) can result in a loss of up to 1 liter of water over several hours. Mocktails, especially those made with hydrating ingredients like coconut water and fresh fruit juices, help maintain your hydration levels.

3. No Hangovers:

One of the most immediate benefits of mocktails is the absence of hangovers. Alcohol consumption can lead to various hangover symptoms, including headaches, nausea, and fatigue. According to a study published in the journal Addiction, hangovers can significantly impair cognitive function and mood. Without alcohol, you can enjoy your night out and wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day.

4. Improved Sleep Quality:

Alcohol can disrupt your sleep cycle, leading to poor quality rest. Although alcohol may help you fall asleep faster, it can interfere with the later stages of sleep, particularly REM sleep. A review published in the journal Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research found that alcohol consumption can lead to more frequent awakenings and less restorative sleep. Mocktails, devoid of alcohol, allow you to enjoy a good night's sleep, which is crucial for overall health and well-being.

5. Enhanced Nutritional Value:

Many mocktails incorporate fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs, which can add a boost of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to your diet. Ingredients like ginger, turmeric, and mint can have added health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and aiding digestion. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that ginger has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, while another study in the journal Phytotherapy Research highlighted the digestive benefits of peppermint.

6. Mental Clarity and Reduced Anxiety:

Alcohol can impair judgment and increase anxiety, both during and after consumption. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology, alcohol use can exacerbate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Mocktails keep your mind clear, helping you to stay present and enjoy your social interactions without the potential for anxiety or regret.

For those looking to explore the world of mocktails, be sure to follow me on TikTok and Instagram @cjsugitajackson. I'll be sharing a series of exciting and delicious mocktail recipes that you can easily make at home.

Recipe: Calming Citrus Herbal Mocktail

This mocktail is designed to help reduce anxiety with the calming effects of herbal tinctures and the refreshing taste of citrus.

Ingredients:

- 4 oz fresh orange juice (rich in vitamin C, which has been shown to reduce anxiety in clinical trials)

- 2 oz fresh lemon juice (high in vitamin C and flavonoids, which have anxiolytic properties)

- 2 oz chamomile tea, cooled (chamomile has been found to reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality in several studies)

- 1 tsp lavender syrup (lavender has been shown to have calming and relaxing effects on the nervous system)

- 1 dropper full of valerian root tincture (valerian root has been used for centuries to treat anxiety and insomnia, with some studies supporting its effectiveness) or you could add drops of SOBER(ISH) to give you a non-boozy wine like relaxing buzz.

- 4 oz unsweetened flavored soda water (lemon or lime)

- Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.

2. Add the fresh orange juice, lemon juice, chamomile tea, lavender syrup, and valerian root tincture to the shaker.

3. Shake well until the mixture is well chilled.

4. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.

5. Top with unsweetened flavored soda water.

6. Stir gently to combine.

Garnish:

- Garnish with a sprig of fresh lavender and a slice of lemon.

Glassware:

- Serve in a highball glass.

Enjoy this calming citrus herbal mocktail as a delightful way to unwind and reduce anxiety. Don't forget to check out my upcoming social media series for more refreshing and health-conscious mocktail recipes. Follow me on TikTok and Instagram @cjsugitajackson for the latest updates and recipes!