It’s almost 5pm somewhere and many of us are getting ready to partake in an alcoholic beverage.

I for one, find it as bonding time with my husband when we can sit and discuss the events of the day. Many of you may be out with friends, enjoying the same conversations. There has been so much research and talk about the pros and cons of drinking and its effect on our well-being. I’m not going to discuss drinking and driving. Hopefully, you all know better by this time. Let’s talk about which of your alcohol choices might be healthier than the other.

It drives me crazy when I see one article that says women go have one a day. Then I see some that read, wait…no more than a few times a week. Oh, and stay away from that margarita but have some red wine for your heart. Wait, do the light beer instead. Hops and barley are good for you. Okay, here is my summation. Let’s treat it like anything else you ingest. Moderation is the key. I know I learned the hard way this past year that what might make you feel really good, might be adding on the pounds, fast.
Sangria was my main drink of choice. Never mind the sugar content. It tasted better than wine and gave me a nice buzz. Yes, 61 year olds like to feel that way sometimes. Well the scale took that good feeling away fast. It took me a while to realize it was making me gain, a lot.
So I switched back to beer, an ultra light with 3 carbs and 95 calories. I started to see the extra pounds come off. However, I can still enjoy a beer. I do one at home, not everyday. When I go out, maybe two. It doesn’t fill me up and it can aid in digestion.
Fine, now what about those other good drinks like Irish Whiskey, or Bailey’s or Jack Daniel’s, a favorite of my husbands. I still enjoy a Bailey’s now and then. I treat it as dessert. It tastes better to me than cake. My husband will occasionally mix his Jack with diet ginger ale.

So, the point is if you are healthy why not enjoy a drink every now and then. If you have health issues, certainly check with your doctor first. Everything is give and take.

Enjoy your happy hour and be safe!!!