Whiskey and Coke is a popular drink combination enjoyed by many, however it is not the healthiest option. The whiskey contains alcohol which should be consumed in moderation. The Coke provides a large amount of added sugar with little nutritional benefit. For those looking for a healthier alternative, there are several options to consider.
Why Choose a Healthy Alternative?
There are a few reasons one may want to find a healthier alternative to whiskey and Coke:
- Reduce calorie intake – The combination of whiskey and regular Coke can rack up a high calorie count. Coke has 140 calories per 12 oz can, while whiskey contains about 100 calories per 1.5 oz serving.
- Limit sugar intake – A 12 oz can of regular Coke contains 39g of added sugar, which exceeds the recommended daily limit. Consuming too much added sugar can increase risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease and fatty liver disease.
- Moderate alcohol intake – Enjoying whiskey and Coke frequently can lead to excessive alcohol consumption, which has been linked to liver damage and increased cancer risk.
Choosing a modified version or different drink altogether is an easy way to still enjoy the taste you crave while supporting better health.
The Healthiest Whiskey and Coke Alternatives
If you want to recreate the whiskey and Coke flavor profile with fewer calories, added sugars, and alcohol, consider these healthy drink swaps:
Whiskey with Diet Coke
The simplest swap is to replace regular Coke with Diet Coke. A 12 oz can of Diet Coke has 0 calories and 0g sugar compared to 140 calories and 39g sugar in regular Coke. This cuts out a significant amount of calories while still providing the classic taste combination.
Whiskey with Zero-Calorie Cola
Another option is substituting regular Coke for a zero-calorie cola like Zevia or DIETZ & Watson Zero Cola. These colas are sweetened with stevia and erythritol rather than aspartame which gives them a more natural taste. They provide 5-15 calories and 0g sugar per 12 oz can.
Whiskey with Sparkling Water
For an even lighter option, try mixing whiskey with sparkling water. Add a squeeze of lime to enhance the flavor. Sparkling water has 0 calories, 0g sugar, and allows you to control the strength of the drink by adjusting whiskey amounts.
Whiskey with Diet Ginger Ale
For a slightly different flavor profile, mix whiskey with diet ginger ale. The ginger notes provide a spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the warmth of whiskey. Look for a diet ginger ale sweetened with stevia or erythritol.
Whiskey with Cold Brew Coffee
Coffee cocktails are an emerging trend, swapping out soda for a splash of cold brew. The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of whiskey for a refreshing chilled drink. Use a naturally sweetened cold brew to avoid added sugars.
Making Your Own Healthy Whiskey Mixers
You can also control the ingredients by making your own simple syrups and mixers at home. Here are some easy recipes to try:
Simple Honey Syrup
Mix 1 cup honey with 1 cup warm water and stir until dissolved. Add 2-3 tbsp to your whiskey for a touch of natural sweetness.
Berry Syrup
Combine 1 cup frozen mixed berries with 1/2 cup water in a saucepan. Heat over medium, mashing berries with a spoon. Once softened, remove from heat and strain out solids. Add 2-3 tbsp to whiskey for homemade flavor.
Ginger Syrup
Peel and thinly slice 1 cup ginger root. Add to a saucepan with 1 cup water and 1/2 cup honey. Simmer for 15 minutes until fragrant. Strain and let cool. Shake 2-3 tbsp with whiskey for a spicy kick.
Cinnamon Syrup
Add 1 cup water, 1 cup honey, and 5 cinnamon sticks to a saucepan. Simmer for 10 minutes and remove from heat. Discard cinnamon sticks, let cool and store in the fridge. Shake 2-3 tbsp into whiskey for warmth.
The Healthiest Whiskey Cocktails
If you want to branch out from just whiskey and cola combos, there are many healthy cocktail recipes that use whiskey. Here are some of the best options:
Apple Cider Whiskey Sour
Muddle apple slices with lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Shake with whiskey and pour over ice. Garnish with apple slices.
Skinny Whiskey Mojito
Muddle mint leaves with lime juice and stevia. Add whiskey, soda water, and ice. Top with lime wedge garnish.
Maple Whiskey Smash
Muddle lemon slices with maple syrup and mint. Add whiskey and shake vigourously. Strain over ice into glass.
Whiskey Paloma
Rim glass with salt and lime wedge. Fill with ice, add whiskey, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and soda water. Garnish with grapefruit slice.
Whiskey Peach Tea
Brew peach tea and let chill. Fill glass with ice, peach tea, whiskey, and squeeze of lemon. Garnish with peach slice.
Non-Alcoholic Whiskey and Coke Alternatives
If you want to avoid alcohol entirely, try these zero-proof drink ideas:
Mexi-Cola
Made with cane sugar instead of high fructose corn syrup, the signature sweetness of Mexican Coca-Cola makes a tasty alcohol-free treat.
Root Beer Float
For an old-fashioned soda shop vibe, pour root beer over vanilla ice cream. Top with whipped cream if desired.
Cherry Italian Soda
Combine club soda, cherry juice, and grenadine syrup over ice. Add a splash of cream for an extra creamy, guilt-free indulgence.
Coffee Frappe
Blend together cold brew coffee, milk, ice, cocoa powder, and honey for a chilled pick-me-up.
Hibiscus Lime Fizz
Stir together lime juice, hibiscus tea, agave nectar, and sparkling water over ice. Garnish with lime wheel.
Conclusion
Unwinding with a refreshing whiskey drink can definitely be part of a healthy lifestyle when some simple tweaks are made. Choosing lower calorie mixers, creating homemade infusions, exploring new cocktail recipes, and considering non-alcoholic alternatives are all easy ways to lighten up your favorite whiskey concoctions. Experiment with the ideas suggested here to find new and delicious ways to enjoy whiskey flavor in a more balanced way.