This was one of the more popular posts from last year (I'm not really sure why...ha! ha!) so I'm posting it again this summer. Enjoy!

So often I will have people ask me, or more often ask people who know me, “ does Dr. Durkin (Michelle) ever eat meat…have dessert…or have a few adult beverages…?”

I think there is this preconceived notion that I don’t do any of these things, ever, and people are pleasantly surprised and relieved to find out the real answer.

Yes, I eat meat and believe good quality, grass-fed animals are part of a healthy diet for many people. Yes, I have dessert on the rare occasion and even make my own healthy versions (if you have participated in any of my detoxes you might even have one of my recipes). And yes, I will have the odd alcoholic beverage on the weekend, out to dinner with friends, or after golf.

Let’s face it – when it comes to alcohol – no one should be drinking it and thinking that it will make them healthier. So can we make healthier choices and still enjoy ourselves socially with family and friends?

Here are my top 5 drinks that fit the bill:

Nor Cal Margarita – this drink was popularized by paleo guru Robb Wolf; 1-2 shots of tequila, juice of 1 lime, and club soda to taste

A twist on vodka/cranberry – mix 1 oz of vodka, juice of 1 lime, soda water, and a splash of cranberry juice

Mojitos – make sure it’s homemade and not a pre-mix or you will be getting way too much sugar; check out one version of this recipe here: Mojito

Red wine – the general rule is the drier wines are best because the sugar content is lower. I am partial to Sandbanks Baco Noir or Dunes even though they are not the driest.

SoCIAL Lite – pre-mix of carbonated water, vodka, lime juice concentrate, and ginger that contains no sugar or sweetener and is available at your LCBO

Now I would love to hear from you! What is your favourite trick to keep the sugar & calories low when you want to consume some alcohol? Leave a comment below and I'll be back next week with another edition of Doctor as Teacher Tuesday!