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How can I enjoy some of my favorite holiday drinks without overdoing the calories?

From holiday parties and family celebrations to shopping trips and end-of-semester traditions, the six weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s can feel like one marathon celebration.

Staying healthy and feeling good during the holidays means choosing your indulgences wisely and making time to stay active through this busy season. Whether you choose to consume alcohol or not, many typical holiday beverages can have a big impact on your intake: A 16-ounce peppermint mocha from your local coffee shop can clock in at almost 500 calories and 54 grams (13.5 teaspoons) of sugar, more than twice the recommended daily maximum of added sugars for women and 1.5 times the max for men, according to the American Heart Association.

So, how do you stop fearing the sound of “Cheers!”? A few strategies:

1. Plan your indulgences in advance. Going to a holiday party tonight? Skip your daily latte break with your office buddy or roommate. Use this strategy with food, too. Choose the cocktail or dessert, not both.
2. Be picky and splurge only when it’s really worth it. If you can’t imagine the holidays without a cup of your aunt’s eggnog, wait until you are with her, and savor just one.
3. Enjoy the flavor without the calories. Instead of ordering a gingerbread latte, brew your own gingerbread-flavored coffee. Buy eggnog flavored almond milk to “spike” your morning coffee.
4. Sip water between other beverage options to stay hydrated and keep calories in check.
5. Skip the sugary cocktails. Wine (125 calories per 5-ounce pour), light beer (100 calories per 12-ounce glass) or a simple vodka with soda water and a lime (70 calories per 1oz of vodka) are your lowest calorie options. Drinks filled with juices, sodas, added sugars (in any form), cream, or multiple liquors can hit 500 calories for 8 ounces.
6. Make a lighter version of your favorite drink to bring to the party. Try out one of these recipes for holiday cocktails and mocktails.

Most importantly, remember that while food and drinks are the center of many gatherings, the holidays are about spending time with family and friends. Cheers to a happy and healthy holiday season!

About Ask Mickey: At Bon Appétit, we know there’s a lot on your plate that you worry about. Making good food choices helps you avoid unwanted pounds, work or study (and sleep!) better, and form long-lasting healthy eating habits. In the Ask Mickey column, Bon Appétit Management Company registered dietitian nutritionists offer tips on “chewing the right thing” and answer your nutrition questions. (Mickey, aka Michelina, is a particular feisty Italian grandmother who continues to inspire us.) Email your questions and feedback to nutrition@cafebonappetit.com.