Alcohol is out, but mocktails are in
Giving up alcohol during your pregnancy is a must, mom-to-be. Not drinking alcohol while you're pregnant helps safeguard your precious one from very serious health problems, such as birth defects.
But you can still stir up a little alcohol-free fun on special occasions. If you want to enjoy a refreshing beverage without drinking alcohol, try a mocktail.
There are tons of alcohol-free recipes out there, but you only need three main components to make a great one. Learn what you need for a mocktail and try freestyling your own tonight.
Pick your base
A mocktail's base can be plain or flavored. Choose something sugar-free to make it healthier.
Club soda, seltzer, or sparkling or tonic water are all excellent bases. You can also go with green, herbal or flavored ice tea.
Add a splash
Are you feeling fruity or tropical, mom-to-be? Choose 100% real fruit juice or nectar—a quarter cup per serving is plenty. Pomegranate, mango, cherry, apricot and grape are delicious flavor components.
Not in the mood for fruit? Coconut water is a milder idea. Green tea is great, if you didn't already use a tea as your base. (Remember, while you're pregnant, it's not a bad idea to limit your caffeine intake. So easy does it.)
Dress it up
Adding fresh fruits to your mocktail gives you a serving of fruit and makes your drink beautiful. Melon or pineapple wedges are tasty additions. Or try strawberry slices, blueberries or raspberries.
If you're entertaining, try going the extra mile with a garnish. A slice of lemon, lime or orange creates a fun pop of color. And don't forget fresh herbs. Try sprigs of mint, thyme or lavender.
Eager to try it out? Get the recipe for a refreshing minted honeydew cooler.
More pregnancy news
The risks of drinking or using drugs while pregnant is extremely high. Learn why you absolutely must give them up for the sake of your baby.
Sources: American Institute for Cancer Research; March of Dimes
Reviewed 12/4/2023