Nutrition and dietetic specialists have issued a stark warning to UK revellers: many beloved Christmas beverages contain far more sugar and hidden calories than people realise, with some popular tipples rivalling fast food in their energy content.
The Festive Calorie Offenders: From Eggnog to Mulled Wine
Dieticians highlight that a single serving of creamy Baileys liqueur contains roughly the same calorie count as half a portion of McDonald's fries. Even more startling, a traditional glass of eggnog can exceed the calorie content of an entire Christmas pudding. These indulgent drinks, often consumed in addition to heavy festive meals, can significantly contribute to weight gain and dental problems over the holiday period.
Sharan Verma, a nutritionist specialising in liver health, explains that while the high fat content in drinks like Baileys can slow alcohol absorption, it places a heavier metabolic burden on the body and liver. A Baileys hot chocolate, especially a homemade version with full-fat milk and cream, can rocket to over 500 calories per serving.
Eggnog, another seasonal staple, is flagged as particularly energy-dense. Specialist dietician Nichola Ludlam-Raine notes it is "very energy-dense and easy to overconsume", especially in large mug-sized portions. Some recipes pack up to 43g of sugar per serving—surpassing the sugar in a supermarket chocolate Yule Log by about 20g.
Moderation and Healthier Alternatives
While mulled wine is synonymous with Christmas markets, experts caution it is among the higher-calorie options due to added sugars. Alexa Mullane, a functional nutritional therapist, suggests making it at home to control sugar levels and boosting spices like cinnamon, which may help regulate blood sugar.
Health officials reiterate that adults should not regularly exceed 14 units of alcohol per week (about six medium glasses of wine). Festive habits, however, can easily push consumption beyond this limit, increasing risks for long-term health conditions.
The Better Choices for Christmas Cheer
Not all festive drinks are dietary disasters. A hot toddy, made with whisky, honey, and lemon, is a lower-calorie option that can soothe the throat, though its health benefits diminish if overly sweetened. A Bloody Mary, relying on tomato juice and vodka, is also relatively low in sugar, though bar-made versions can be high in salt.
For a celebratory fizz, nutritionists point to Brut champagne or prosecco, which are lower in sugar, especially compared to sweet wines or creamy liqueurs. Dr Federica Amati, head nutritionist at ZOE, notes champagne is "not fatty and there's no added sugar." However, dentists warn of 'prosecco teeth' from the drink's acidity and sugar content.
The top-rated options, according to experts, are clear spirits like gin, vodka, or tequila mixed with soda water or slimline tonic. These contain no added sugar or fat, making them the least calorific alcoholic choice. Ms Ludlam-Raine advises, "The main health consideration remains the alcohol itself, and any benefits are quickly lost if multiple servings are consumed."
With the festive season in full swing, being mindful of these hidden calories and sugars can help people enjoy celebrations without overburdening their health.
