Apple Cider Sangria Mocktail

Blog by Callie Birtles, RHN + Recipe by Katie Stewart, RHN

As we gear up for the holiday season, we’ve got a little something up our sleeve. That’s our Apple Cider Sangria Mocktail. It’s a fun, festive “party” drink that doesn’t inflame your skin.

Super simple to whip up, it’s the perfect addition to your holiday menu, whether hosting a big gathering or indulging in a little self-care moment. Each sip is not only delicious but also a step towards maintaining that healthy skin glow. 

Get ready to enjoy a glass full of festive goodness!

Impacts of Alcohol on the Body & Skin

The effects of alcohol on our bodies are a bit like a ripple effect in a pond – what starts as a small disturbance can quickly spread and impact the entire ecosystem. Beyond the notorious hangover, alcohol’s influence extends to both our body and skin. 

When it comes to skin health, think of alcohol as an unwelcome guest that brings along acne and inflammation. In the gut, alcohol acts like a disruptive force, throwing off the delicate balance of the microbiome. But it doesn’t stop there; alcohol can also meddle with blood sugar levels, setting the stage for weight gain and insulin resistance.

In addition, alcohol can inflict serious damage on the liver over time, leading to various diseases. A healthy gut and liver are crucial for maintaining clear skin and are two key focus areas in The Clear Skin Solution. Each time you consider having that glass of wine, it’s worth remembering this broader impact it could have on your health and appearance.

If you want a deeper dive into this topic, listen to our podcast The Clear Skin Chronicles: S01.E27 Cheers to Clear Skin: Unveiling Alcohol’s Impact on Acne.

Navigating Social Situations

As society becomes more health-conscious and aware of substance abuse issues, it’s important for everyone to feel comfortable with their own choices when it comes to drinking. Offering non-alcoholic options at events and gatherings is a simple way to ensure everyone feels included and respected.

And if someone chooses not to drink, it’s crucial that we don’t pressure them or make them feel uncomfortable. Instead, we can offer support and understanding. Saying things like: “No problem, there are plenty of other drink choices,” or “I appreciate your choice” can go a long way in creating a positive and welcoming environment. Ultimately, the goal should be for everyone to have a good time without compromising their own health or well-being. 

Navigating social situations can be tough, especially when you feel pressure to participate in activities you’re not comfortable with, like drinking alcohol. If you are in such a situation, remember that saying no is okay. There are plenty of reasons someone might choose not to drink, from health reasons to personal beliefs, and you shouldn’t feel bad about making that choice.

If you do feel pressured, try some polite but firm responses like “I’m good, thanks”, “Not tonight, but I’ll grab a mocktail with you”, or “I’ve come to enjoy tonight” and ask them a question about themselves to lead the conversation in a different direction. This can affirm personal boundaries. Ultimately, it’s important to prioritize your own well-being and feelings in social settings, and true friends will respect your choices regardless of whether you’re drinking or not. The key is to communicate your choice confidently and comfortably.

Alcohol Alternatives & Tips

• Bring your own beverage, depending on what type of venue you are attending (if allowed).  This enables you to mix your own ingredients, which puts you in control.
• Use glassware and combine lime, fresh water, and mint.  Looks just like a gin and tonic.
• Mocktail it up.  More great ideas here:
  • Pomegranate Ginger Kombucha Mocktail
  • Sparkling Pineapple Ginger Mocktail
  • Vegan + Sugar-Free Egg Nog
  • Strawberry Mojito Mocktail

The Magic Behind Our Skin-Loving Ingredients

Apples

These crunchy delights are like the friendly neighbourhood superheroes for your liver.  It contains flavonoids and malic acid, which support the liver’s detox powers.

Oranges

Picture oranges as tiny suns packed with Vitamin C, shining their light on collagen production and fighting off the skin-damaging free radicals.

Lemons

These zesty companions offer numerous benefits for our skin, being rich in vitamin C and detoxifying attributes. Lemons have a strong alkalizing effect, which aids in balancing our body’s pH levels and supports the lymphatic system. They operate much like effective custodians of our bodies, ensuring everything stays clean and runs seamlessly.

Cranberries

Think of cranberries as the bouncers at the club of our skin, keeping troublesome bacteria away and calming inflammation. Just like a shield, they also have a component that helps prevent urinary tract infections, indirectly supporting kidney health and promoting clear skin.

Oh, So Nice, Pumpkin Spice!

Now that we’ve explored the health benefits of various fruits, let’s shift our focus to the world of spices, particularly those found in the beloved Pumpkin Pie Spice blend. Each ingredient in this aromatic mixture not only contributes to a warm, comforting flavour but also boasts a plethora of health benefits:

Cinnamon

Cinnamon, a key component in the blend, can help regulate blood sugar levels.  Spikes in blood sugar can trigger inflammation, which = acne.

Nutmeg

With its antibacterial properties, nutmeg helps combat skin blemishes by reducing harmful bacteria. Nutmeg’s anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants also soothe skin inflammation, promoting a clear and healthy complexion.

Cloves

It possesses potent antimicrobial properties that can help fight off opportunistic bacteria and parasites in your gut.

Ginger

Known for its powerful anti-inflammatory effects, can help reduce inflammation, soothe digestive issues, and even ease pain.

Put a festive spin on your beverage menu with this refreshing and flavorful Apple Cider Sangria Mocktail, a perfect non-alcoholic drink that artfully combines the warming notes of the homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend with the crisp sweetness of apple cider.

Apple Cider Sangria Mocktail

This refreshing and festive apple cider sangria mocktail is a great alcohol alternative to enjoy during the holiday season.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Servings: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 L organic apple cider (cold)
• 750 mL bottle sparkling water
• 1 orange (juiced)
• 1/2 lemon (juiced)
• 1/3 cup cranberries
• 1 orange (sliced)
• 1 lemon (sliced)
• 1 apple (cored and chopped)

To serve:

• Ice
• Cranberries
• Sliced citrus
• Rosemary sprig
• Chopped apple

Instructions

• Add pumpkin spice to a large pitcher.
• Follow with apple cider, sparkling water, juiced orange, and juiced lemon.
• Top with cranberries, orange slices, lemon slices, and chopped apple.
• Let it sit for at least one hour to make the flavours cozy.
• Add ice to the glass and pour in the apple cider mixture when ready to serve.
• If desired, top with extra fruit and a sprig of rosemary. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

I used Primal Palate’s Pumpkin Spice blend. If you don’t have access to a sugar-free pumpkin spice, mix together: 

• 2 tablespoons Ground Cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon Ground Ginger
• 1 tablespoon Ground Nutmeg
• 1/2 tablespoon Ground Allspice
• 1/2 tablespoon Ground Cloves

 

For those who wish to make an alcohol version, swap the water for your favourite bottle of organic white or sparkling wine.