Making Happy Hour Healthy

Okay so let's be honest ... drinking is not the healthiest thing you can do, but after a long week sometimes you just need a drink. Luckily, there are ways to socialize and still stay relatively healthy. As you hit happy hour tonight and the bars later this weekend here are a few things to keep in mind... like alternative water between drinks, ordering lower calorie drinks, and ordering smart food choices.

Ordering Drinks

Reevaluate your favorite drinks. One of mine are margaritas! I always make sure to ask the bartender if they can just make it with lime juice and a splash of OJ instead of sour mix. Although it's not as sweet as the usual rita's you may be used to, you save a ton of calories. This version is only about 100 cals. Other low calorie drinks are vodka soda and light beer. Try a flavored vodka and add some fruit to make it not as plain.

Don't be afraid to ask. Not sure what's in the drink you are ordering? Ask the bartender. They are more than  happy to let you know and sub out ingredients to  make is skinny.

 

Ordering Food

Order munchies you can share.  My favorite go to appetizer at the bar is a hummus plate because it's filling, lower in calories, and chickpeas are a complex carb. What more could you want! Also ask if the bar will add some simple veggies to the platter like cucumber, tomatoes, and peppers. Another smart option is seafood items that are not fried... think shrimp cocktail, oysters, or fish tacos. But make sure to get any sauces on the side. This will save you more calories than you think. If you are craving something like a burger, consider sliders since they are portioned better. But if you much order that burger, opt for a side salad instead of french fries.