Drinks!...and making better choices.

So if you are anything like me, a cocktail at the end of the day or as a start to the weekend is AMAZING!  Alcohol is one of those things that is always on the elimination list, but actually has a host of benefits if consumed in moderation.

1) It relieves stress.  Sorry, but it does.  That's the reason you finally feel relaxed after a couple of sips.  After a day of chasing your child around, or dealing with their constant screaming (hello teeth) it's nice to breathe a sigh of relief.

2) There are a host of studies that say moderate alcohol consumption can lower your risk of heart disease, dementia, and diabetes.  

3) It's social!  Getting together with friends over a drink is one of life's perks.  Definitely a mood booster!

With that being said moderation is key, and I'm certainly not recommending sitting down and drinking a bottle of wine every night.  Too much of anything is, well, too much!  On to the list of "healthier" choices when it comes to libation.

• Red Wine
• Champagne
• Vodka
• Gin
• Silver Tequila

Stay away from drinks with sugary mixers.  Use fresh juice, herbs, and citrus instead.  Here is a recipe for one of my favorites:

• 6 blackberries
• 1 tsp maple syrup
• juice of one lime
• 2 oz gin
• seltzer

Muddle all of the ingredients except the seltzer together in a cocktail shaker.  Add ice.  Shake until cold and combined.  Strain into a low ball glass over ice.  Top with seltzer, and garnish with a couple more berries. Ahhhhhhhhh :)