It’s no secret that alcohol can take a toll on your health, but some drinks are much worse than others. If you’re trying to make smarter choices, it helps to know which types of alcohol can be especially harmful. The wrong drinks can wreck your energy, raise your risk for chronic disease, and even sabotage your finances. Many of the worst offenders are loaded with sugar, artificial additives, or dangerously high alcohol content. If you value your health, making informed decisions about what you drink is key. Let’s look at ten alcohols you should avoid if you want to protect your well-being.
1. Flavored Malt Beverages
Flavored malt beverages, like hard sodas and fruit-flavored “alcopops,” often seem harmless. But these drinks are usually packed with sugar and artificial flavors. The high sugar content can spike your blood sugar and contribute to weight gain, especially if you drink them regularly. If you’re serious about your health, it’s smart to steer clear of these sweetened alcoholic drinks.
2. Cheap Vodka
Not all vodkas are created equal. Cheap vodka is often poorly distilled, which can leave behind impurities known as congeners. These compounds can make hangovers worse and may even be harmful to your liver. If you enjoy vodka, choose higher-quality brands and drink in moderation. Avoiding low-quality spirits is a simple step to protect your health.
3. Pre-Mixed Cocktails in a Can
Ready-to-drink canned cocktails are convenient, but they come with a price. Many are loaded with sugar, sodium, and artificial ingredients. These additives can lead to bloating, headaches, and long-term health issues. Plus, the alcohol content is sometimes higher than you’d expect. If you value your health, skip the pre-mixed options and make your own cocktails with fresh ingredients.
4. Grain Alcohol (Everclear and Similar)
Grain alcohol, such as Everclear, is extremely potent—sometimes up to 95% alcohol by volume. Drinking even a small amount can be dangerous, increasing your risk of alcohol poisoning and serious health problems. It’s also illegal in some states due to its potency. For your safety, avoid grain alcohol entirely and choose lower-proof options if you drink.
5. Sugary Liqueurs
Liqueurs like Irish cream, coffee liqueur, or chocolate-flavored spirits might taste great, but they’re loaded with sugar and calories. Regularly drinking these can lead to weight gain, blood sugar spikes, and an increased risk of metabolic issues. If you want to limit your sugar intake and avoid the health risks, it’s best to skip sugary liqueurs.
6. Cheap Red Wine
Red wine, consumed in moderation, offers some health benefits; however, inexpensive red wine may contain higher levels of sulfites and additives. These can trigger headaches and allergic reactions in sensitive people. Low-quality wine may also contain higher levels of contaminants, such as pesticides. If you enjoy wine, invest in better-quality bottles and drink responsibly for better health outcomes.
7. Jägerbombs and Other High-Caffeine Cocktails
Mixing alcohol with energy drinks is an especially risky trend. Drinks like Jägerbombs combine high levels of caffeine with alcohol, which can mask the effects of intoxication. This means you might drink more than you realize, raising your risk for alcohol poisoning and heart problems. For the sake of your health, avoid cocktails that mix booze and stimulants.
8. Cream-Based Cocktails
Drinks like White Russians and Mudslides are delicious, but they are heavy on cream and sugar. These cocktails are high in saturated fat and calories, which can contribute to weight gain and heart disease if consumed regularly. If you value your health, reserve these for rare treats or avoid them altogether.
9. Fortified Wines (Cheap Sherry, Port, or Vermouth)
Fortified wines have a higher alcohol content than regular wine, and cheap versions often contain added sugar and artificial flavors. Drinking these regularly can raise your risk for liver damage and other health issues. If you enjoy a glass now and then, opt for higher-quality fortified wines and keep your intake moderate.
10. Absinthe
Absinthe is famous for its high alcohol content and herbal flavors. But it’s also notorious for being over 60% alcohol by volume—much stronger than most spirits. Drinking absinthe increases your risk for alcohol poisoning and is linked to dangerous behavior when consumed in excess. If you value your health, it’s wise to avoid absinthe and other extremely strong spirits.
Smart Choices for Your Health and Wallet
Choosing the right drinks is about more than just taste. The alcohols you should avoid if you value your health often share common traits: high sugar, high alcohol content, and lots of additives. By steering clear of these options, you protect not just your body but your budget, too. Healthier choices tend to be simpler, lower in sugar, and consumed in moderation.
Remember, moderation and informed choices can make a big difference in your long-term health.
Are there any drinks you avoid for health reasons? Share your thoughts or tips in the comments below!
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