5 (almost) guilt-free beverages for fall

5 (almost) guilt-free beverages for fall

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SALT LAKE CITY — While many people may dread the colder months, this time of year can be a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with friends and loved ones as the pace of life is almost forced to slow a bit. Gathering around hearty meals or chatting over a warm cup of something can help us take time and appreciate the people in our lives a little more.

But while our relationships may grow — so can our waistlines.

From Halloween to New Year’s, Americans gain an average of 1.3 pounds each year, which is a lower amount than most would expect. However, our success with losing that weight before the next holiday season may not be as good. With each passing year, Americans tend to get heavier and heavier, increasing our risk for heart disease and diabetes.

To help encourage good health to enjoy many more holidays to come, here are five healthier alternative recipes to recreate fall-favorite beverages that are both good for the soul and for the heart.

1. Joy Bauer's Skinny Hot Cocoa

(Photo: Joy Bauer)
(Photo: Joy Bauer)

#Hot_Cocoa

One of the first drinks that comes to mind when thinking of cold weather is hot chocolate. Drinkable chocolate, what more can you ask for? But hot chocolate can be high in fat and sugar. Registered Dietitian Joy Bauer has created her own, healthier version for that chocolate fix. Simple to make, this recipe includes vanilla almond milk and chocolate chips.

2. Cooking Light Pumpkin Spice Latte

(Photo: Sara Tane)
(Photo: Sara Tane)

Ahh... The Pumpkin Spice Latte. This drink has almost become synonymous with fall. This recipe from Cooking Light allows you to make your own pumpkin spice syrup and add it as you like. You will need to take time to make the syrup initially, but it can be refrigerated and kept on-hand for easy use later on.

3. Eating Well Eggnog

(Photo: Eating Well)
(Photo: Eating Well)

Eggnog is a notoriously-heavy holiday beverage, but it has such great flavor. If eggnog is a drink you really enjoy, try this recipe from Eating Well. However, if you prefer an alcohol-free version, replace the 1/4 cup of rum with 2 teaspoons of rum extract.

4. Pumpkin Pie Smoothie by Sallys Baking Addiction

(Photo: Sally McKenney)
(Photo: Sally McKenney)

#Pumpkin_Smoothie

While smoothies are not typically thought of as being unhealthy, this recipe from Sally's Baking Addiction made the list because it is so delicious you won't believe it's healthy. With protein, fiber and calcium, this pumpkin pie smoothie is a great way to indulge without feeling guilty.

5. Better Homes and Gardens Salted Caramel Mocha Spoons

(Photo: Better Homes and Gardens)
(Photo: Better Homes and Gardens)

#Mocha_Spoons

I love this idea from Better Homes and Gardens because it lets you get the flavor of a salted caramel mocha in such a cute, convenient way. These spoons are easy to take with you or enjoy at home. With a third of the calories of some versions, the salted caramel mocha spoon is definitely worth a try.

While it is important to keep your health in mind, sometimes nothing beats the real deal. Indulging in your favorite drink every now and then is absolutely fine, especially if you make it a special treat and really enjoy it.


About the author: Maria is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with degrees in dietetics as well as nutrition, fitness, and health from Purdue University. She is a UCSD certified Lactation Educator. Her focus is on promoting community wellness and family health.- - - - - -

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