What Alcohol Has the Least Calories?

If you’re looking for lower-calorie options,Wilson​ recommends‌ exploring low-calorie beer or wine. Regular beer and wine ​can contain between 150 to 200 calories per serving, depending on the brand. moast types of liquor, depending on the brand and proof, contain just under 100 calories in a single shot, according to the US ⁢Department of Agriculture’s food database.

Finding Holiday Joy: One Woman’s Story of Opting Out

For many, the holidays are a time of joyful connection and celebration.Yet,for some,the season can bring on a wave of anxiety and stress. Alicia Dudley, who shared her experience in The Atlantic, is one such individual. She found herself overwhelmed by the emotional weight of family dynamics and the pressure to conform to traditions that no longer felt fulfilling. “For years,the weeks leading up to the holidays would be filled with this underlying anxiety,” Dudley explains. “It wasn’t just about the logistical chaos of travel and gift-buying. It was more about the emotional weight of navigating complex family dynamics, trying to meet everyone’s expectations, and often feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to be ‘merry and luminous.'” Dudley’s journey led her to re-evaluate her relationship with the holidays. She made the conscious decision to step back from traditional celebrations and prioritize her own well-being. “It was a gradual realization,” Dudley says. “I started prioritizing my own well-being and recognizing that the holidays weren’t necessarily serving me. I felt like I was sacrificing my time and energy on something that wasn’t truly joyful.”

Rediscovering Holiday Joy

Dudley’s holiday celebrations now look vastly different. Rather of focusing on obligations and expectations,she chooses activities that genuinely bring her joy. This might involve spending quality time with close friends, pursuing creative hobbies, or simply enjoying some peaceful solitude. “They’re much calmer and more intentional now,” she shares. “I focus on activities that bring me genuine joy, whether it’s spending time with close friends, pursuing creative hobbies, or simply enjoying some peace and quiet.”

Navigating Family Dynamics

While Dudley’s decision to opt out of traditional gatherings was met with some initial resistance from family members, she has found that open interaction and clear boundaries have helped bridge the gap. “There were some initial,even hurt,reactions from family members who felt I was rejecting them. But over time, I’ve had open conversations explaining my needs and boundaries.Many have come to understand and respect my choice,” Dudley explains. Dudley’s story serves as a powerful reminder that the holidays should be a time for joy and connection, on our own terms. “When considering alcohol ​during the holidays, ⁤it’s notable to focus on what you’re drinking and how much you’re consuming,”​ says Jessica Wilson, MS, RD and founder of The helpful dietitian. “A single glass of eggnog on Christmas Eve isn’t likely to derail your health goals. Tho, if‍ you’re drinking more frequently, several‌ times a week or nightly, the ​type of alcohol becomes more significant due to its calorie and sugar content.” What alcohol Has the Least Calories?

Navigating holiday Stress: A Conversation with Alicia Dudley

Welcome back to Archyde’s “Real talk” series. Today, we’re tackling a topic many of us can relate to: holiday stress. Joining us today is Alicia Dudley, who has been sharing her experience of opting out of customary holiday celebrations. Alicia, welcome to the show. Alicia Dudley: Thanks for having me. Host: I was really intrigued by your piece in The Atlantic.You mentioned feeling anxious leading up to family gatherings.
## Archyde Presents: Holiday Stress? You’re not Alone.

Making Healthier Choices During the Holidays

Whether you’re attending festive gatherings or hosting them yourself, the holidays often involve an abundance of food and drink. Registered dietitian Jenna Wilson offers some tips for making mindful choices without sacrificing enjoyment. If you’re looking for lower-calorie options, Wilson recommends exploring low-calorie beer or wine. Regular beer and wine can contain between 150 to 200 calories per serving, depending on the brand. Most types of liquor, depending on the brand and proof, contain just under 100 calories in a single shot, according to the US Department of Agriculture’s food database. “Pairing a shot of liquor with low-calorie mixers like soda water, diet tonic, or unsweetened cranberry juice can be a good strategy for reducing overall calorie intake,” suggests Wilson.

Is There Really a “healthiest” Alcohol?

The concept of a “healthiest” alcohol is complex. While some studies suggest a possible link between moderate wine consumption and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, experts hesitate to label any alcoholic beverage as outright healthy. Registered dietitian Miranda Galati emphasizes that the best food choices are highly individual, depending on factors like personal needs, budget, culture, and health goals. “It’s amazing to make more nutrient-dense choices when possible,” Galati says,”but choosing the more processed or convenient option isn’t always a bad thing either.” She advises against fixating on finding the “healthiest” version of everything, encouraging a balanced approach to healthy living.

“The healthiest food in any category will depend on you, your budget, your culture, your health goals, and so much more. …As a registered dietitian who wants you to build a healthy lifestyle that lasts, I’d recommend ditching the idea that there’s a healthiest version of anything.” — Miranda Galati, Registered Dietitian

During the holidays—or any time of year— constantly seeking out the “healthiest” option can be counterproductive.Instead of fixating on finding the perfect drink, consider bringing a nutrient-rich dish to gatherings or choosing a healthier option from the menu. This approach allows you to enjoy celebrations while still prioritizing your well-being. “The holidays are about joy, togetherness, and traditions, many of which involve food,” says Wilson.

Reclaiming the Holidays: One Woman’s Journey to Joy

For years, the holiday season filled Alicia Dudley with a quiet sense of dread. It wasn’t just the stress of travel and gift-giving; it was the weight of family dynamics, the pressure to meet unrealistic expectations, and the overwhelming need to project an image of holiday cheer. “it felt like I was sacrificing my time and energy on something that wasn’t truly joyful,” she reflects. Gradually, Alicia realized that the holidays weren’t serving her well-being. this realization led her to make a bold decision: to opt out of traditional celebrations.

A Calmer, more Intentional Approach

Alicia’s holidays now look vastly different. Instead of frantic gatherings and forced merriment, she focuses on activities that bring her genuine joy. “They’re much calmer and more intentional,” she says. “I spend time with close friends, pursue creative hobbies, or simply enjoy some peace and quiet.”

Navigating Family expectations

Not everyone understood Alicia’s decision. Some family members reacted with hurt, feeling rejected. Though, through open conversations about her needs and boundaries, Alicia was able to help them understand her choice. “Many have come to respect my decision,” she explains. Alicia’s story is a powerful reminder that the holidays should be a time of joy and connection, and that this can look different for everyone. Holiday gatherings and festive⁤ events often lead to increased alcohol consumption.But if ⁣you’re mindful of your‌ health,choosing the right beverages can make a difference. Navigating Alcohol Choices During the Holidays The holiday season frequently enough brings an abundance of festive gatherings and, with them, the temptation of indulging in alcoholic beverages. While enjoying a drink or two can be part of the celebratory spirit, making mindful choices is key to maintaining overall well-being. Registered Dietitian jessica Wilson, MS, RD, founder of The helpful Dietitian, emphasizes the importance of both moderation and consideration of the type of alcohol consumed. Lower-Calorie Options If you’re looking to minimize calorie intake, Wilson suggests opting for lower-calorie beer or wine. Regular beer and wine can pack between 150 to 200 calories per serving, while most liquors, depending on brand and proof, contain around 100 calories per shot. Pairing a shot of liquor with calorie-conscious mixers like soda water, diet tonic, or unsweetened cranberry juice is another strategy for keeping calories in check. The “healthiest” Alcohol: A Myth? The notion of a single “healthiest” alcohol is misleading,as individual health choices should factor in personal needs,budget,culture,and health goals. Registered dietitian Miranda Galati advocates for making nutrient-dense choices when possible but stresses that occasionally opting for more processed or convenient options is not inherently bad. She advises against becoming fixated on finding the “healthiest” version of everything,rather encouraging a lasting approach to healthy living.

“The healthiest food​ in any category will depend on you, your budget, your culture, your health goals, and⁢ so much more. … As a ‍registered‌ dietitian who wants you to build a healthy lifestyle that lasts, ⁢I’d recommend ditching the idea⁢ that there’s a healthiest version of anything.” — Miranda Galati, Registered Dietitian

Instead of obsessing over finding the “perfect” drink, consider contributing a nutritious dish to gatherings or selecting a healthier option from the menu. This balanced approach allows you to fully enjoy the festivities while still prioritizing your well-being. “The holidays are about joy, togetherness, and traditions, many of which involve ⁢food,” says Wilson.
## Archyde‌ Presents: Holiday Stress? You’re Not ⁤alone.



**Host:** Welcome back too Archyde’s “Real⁤ talk” series. today, we’re⁢ diving into a topic ‌many of⁤ us can relate to: holiday stress.​Joining us today⁤ is Alicia Dudley, who’s been sharing

Finding joy Beyond Tradition: one Woman’s Holiday Transformation

Alicia Dudley’s holidays used to be filled with a familiar dread. The weeks leading up to December were marked by a constant undercurrent of anxiety,not as of the logistical nightmare of travel and gift-buying,but because of the emotional toll of navigating complex family dynamics. “It was more about the emotional weight of navigating complex family dynamics, trying to meet everyone’s expectations, and often feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to be ‘merry and luminous,’” she explains. For years, Alicia felt obligated to participate in holiday traditions that didn’t truly bring her joy.It was a gradual realization that led her to prioritize her own well-being. “I started prioritizing my own well-being and recognizing that the holidays weren’t necessarily serving me. I felt like I was sacrificing my time and energy on something that wasn’t truly joyful,” she shares.

A New Path to Holiday Bliss

So she made a change. Alicia chose to step away from the traditional holiday celebrations and rather focus on creating a holiday experience that aligned with her values and brought her genuine joy. “They’re much calmer and more intentional,” Alicia says of her holidays now. “I focus on activities that bring me genuine joy, whether it’s spending time with close friends, pursuing creative hobbies, or simply enjoying some peace and quiet.”

Navigating Family Expectations

Unsurprisingly, not everyone understood Alicia’s decision. There were initial hurt reactions from family members who felt she was rejecting them. However, through open communication and honest conversations, Alicia explained her needs and boundaries. over time, many came to understand and respect her choice. “There were some initial, even hurt, reactions from family members who felt I was rejecting them,” Alicia acknowledges. “But over time, I’ve had open conversations explaining my needs and boundaries. Many have come to understand and respect my choice.” Alicia’s story is a powerful reminder that the holidays should be a time of joy and connection, whatever form that may take. It’s a testament to the courage it takes to break free from tradition and create a holiday experience that truly nourishes the soul. Navigating Alcohol Choices During the holidays The holiday season frequently enough brings an abundance of festive gatherings and,with them,the temptation of indulging in alcoholic beverages. While enjoying a drink or two can be part of the celebratory spirit,making mindful choices is key to maintaining overall well-being. Registered Dietitian Jessica Wilson, MS, RD, founder of The Helpful dietitian, emphasizes the importance of both moderation and consideration of the type of alcohol consumed. Lower-Calorie Options If you’re looking to minimize calorie intake, Wilson suggests opting for lower-calorie beer or wine. Regular beer and wine can pack between 150 to 200 calories per serving,while most liquors,depending on brand and proof,contain around 100 calories per shot. Pairing a shot of liquor with calorie-conscious mixers like soda water, diet tonic, or unsweetened cranberry juice is another strategy for keeping calories in check. The “Healthiest” Alcohol: A Myth? the notion of a single “healthiest” alcohol is misleading, as individual health choices should factor in personal needs, budget, culture, and health goals.Registered Dietitian Miranda Galati advocates for making nutrient-dense choices when possible but stresses that occasionally opting for more processed or convenient options is not inherently bad. She advises against becoming fixated on finding the “healthiest” version of everything, instead encouraging a sustainable approach to healthy living.

“The healthiest food​ in any category will depend on you, your budget, your culture, your health goals, and⁢ so much more…. As a ‍registered‌ dietitian who wants you to build a healthy lifestyle that lasts, ⁢I’d recommend ditching the idea⁢ that there’s a healthiest version of anything.” — Miranda Galati, Registered Dietitian

Rather of obsessing over finding the “perfect” drink, consider contributing a nutritious dish to gatherings or selecting a healthier option from the menu. This balanced approach allows you to fully enjoy the festivities while still prioritizing your well-being. “The holidays are about joy, togetherness, and traditions, many of which involve ⁢food,” says Wilson.
## Archyde‌ Presents: Holiday Stress? You’re Not ⁤alone.



**Host:** Welcome back too Archyde’s “Real⁤ Talk” series. today,we’re⁢ diving into a topic ‌many of⁤ us can relate to: holiday stress. ​Joining us today⁤ is Alicia Dudley, who’s been sharing

Finding Joy beyond Tradition: One Woman’s Holiday Transformation

Alicia Dudley’s holidays used to be filled with a familiar dread. The weeks leading up to December were marked by a constant undercurrent of anxiety, not because of the logistical nightmare of travel and gift-buying, but because of the emotional toll of navigating complex family dynamics. “It was more about the emotional weight of navigating complex family dynamics, trying to meet everyone’s expectations, and often feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to be ‘merry and luminous,’” she explains. for years, Alicia felt obligated to participate in holiday traditions that didn’t truly bring her joy. It was a gradual realization that led her to prioritize her own well-being. “I started prioritizing my own well-being and recognizing that the holidays weren’t necessarily serving me. I felt like I was sacrificing my time and energy on something that wasn’t truly joyful,” she shares.

A New Path to Holiday Bliss

So she made a change. Alicia chose to step away from the traditional holiday celebrations and instead focus on creating a holiday experience that aligned with her values and brought her genuine joy. “They’re much calmer and more intentional,” Alicia says of her holidays now. “I focus on activities that bring me genuine joy, whether it’s spending time with close friends, pursuing creative hobbies, or simply enjoying some peace and quiet.”

Navigating family Expectations

Unsurprisingly, not everyone understood Alicia’s decision. There were initial hurt reactions from family members who felt she was rejecting them. However, through open communication and honest conversations, Alicia explained her needs and boundaries.Over time, many came to understand and respect her choice. “There were some initial, even hurt, reactions from family members who felt I was rejecting them,” Alicia acknowledges. “But over time, I’ve had open conversations explaining my needs and boundaries. Many have come to understand and respect my choice.” Alicia’s story is a powerful reminder that the holidays should be a time of joy and connection, whatever form that may take. It’s a testament to the courage it takes to break free from tradition and create a holiday experience that truly nourishes the soul.
This content is a great start to a blog post or article about navigating alcohol choices during the holidays! Here are my thoughts and suggestions to make it even stronger:



**Strengths:**



* **Relevant Topic:** Holiday drinking is a common experience, so the topic is timely and relatable.

* **Expert Opinions:** Including quotes from registered dietitians adds credibility and authority to your piece.

* **Practical Advice:** you offer actionable tips like choosing lower-calorie options and suggesting mindful choices.

* **Balanced Approach:** You avoid promoting overly restrictive diets and emphasize enjoying the holidays while being mindful.



**Suggestions for Enhancement:**





* **Structure & flow:**



* **Heading Hierarchy:** Use heading levels consistently (H2, H3, etc.) to create a clear visual structure.

* **Transitions:** Add smooth transitions between paragraphs to connect ideas and improve readability.

* **Conciseness:** Some sentences could be shortened for better flow. Such as:



> “If you’re looking to minimize calorie intake, Wilson suggests opting for lower-calorie beer or wine. Regular beer and wine can pack between 150 to 200 calories per serving,while most liquors,depending on brand and proof,contain around 100 calories per shot. “



could be revised to:





>” To minimize calorie intake, Wilson recommends lower-calorie beer or wine. Regular beer and wine typically have 150-200 calories per serving, while most liquors contain around 100 calories per shot, depending on brand and proof.”



* **Expand on Alcohol Choices:** Provide more specific examples of lower-calorie alcoholic beverages:



* **Examples of Lower-Calorie Wine:** Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Riesling

* **Examples of Lower-Calorie Beer:** Light beer, low-carb beer



* **Include “Mocktail” Options:** Mention non-alcoholic alternatives and highlight their festive appeal. Some ideas: Sparkling water with fruit and herbs, cranberry spritzer, virgin cocktails.



* **Mindful Drinking Strategies:**



* Pace Yourself: Encourage readers to sip drinks slowly and alternate alcoholic beverages with water.

* Set limits: Suggest setting a limit for how many drinks they’ll consume.

* avoid drinking on an Empty Stomach: Explain the importance of eating before and while drinking.



* **Connect to Overall wellbeing:**

* Briefly discuss the link between alcohol and mood,sleep,and other health factors during the holidays.



* **Call to Action:** End with a strong call to action. Encourage readers to make informed choices and prioritize their well-being this holiday season.



**General Tips:**



* **Visual Appeal:** Add relevant images to break up the text and make it more engaging. Consider using visuals that represent healthy holiday feasting, fun mocktail options, or mindful relaxation techniques.



* **proofread Carefully:** Ensure there are no grammatical errors or typos.