Before making this Plum Sangria Punch, you might wonder, should you be drinking with health issues? I’ve always struggled when asked this question, as I guess since most people with health conditions have some sort of MTHFR defect (can’t detox as well), a low alcohol tolerance, get sick from alcohol, or are on medication; the answer technically should be no.

However, I’ve found that to be so obsessive and strict about my diet actually makes my health worse as it takes away many socialization options and keeps me focused on what I can’t have. So I actually feel better participating in drinking still on occasion. Luckily, there are fabulous (and still delicious options) of cocktails that are lower in preservatives, artificial colors/flavors, calories, sugar etc.

Drinking with Health Issues

Over a year ago, my little brother came to me and told me he’d never drink in college. He has GERD/the alcohol makes him sick. I felt bad, as even though you shouldn’t rely on alcohol to make friends, me and my two siblings are on the shyer side. So, I know having a couple drinks during school (and even now) helped us be less nervous around crowds.

I recommended he avoid beer and wine (due to added sulfites which can be a little harsh). As well as avoid sugary drinks, unclean/cheap liquors, soda and other mixers filled with artificial colors, and flavors. I figured he might be able to drink cleaner options and not have so bad of a reaction. It worked!

What does this leave? Some easy options are: vodka + soda water, cranberry vodka, rum + orange juice, margaritas on the rocks made without mixes, etc. [I almost always recommend Tito’s vodka, Deep Eddy’s vodkas, and clear rums and tequilas as they usually lack the caramel (and other) colorings that other liquors have.]

Fun (and Healthier) Party Drinks

The fun party drink below is a prime example of cleaner drinks. I found a recipe for black sangria that I really wanted to try, but looking for a gluten-free liquor seemed impossible. Did you know alcohol/liquor companies are not required to label their allergens?!

So, I raided the liquor store for hours looking for something I could use. Almost ready to give up, I realized that most gluten in non-wheat derived alcohol is found in the flavor/colors. This fact made it A LOT easier to find a safer option (I just had to google clear options). I ended up going with (Black Haus Raspberry Schnapps). While I wasn’t a fan of the cost, I realized it’s stronger than other liquors so I needed less. And so the fun began…

Making Plum Sangria Punch

Making this fun Plum Sangria Punch for holiday gatherings/entertaining took me back to my college days. It is dangerously strong so be careful, but it is a great nightcap, entertaining, or ladies night drink!

It also has a remarkably unique flavor compared to any other sangria I’ve tried. A lot of which appears to be coming from the use of black grapes. It’s definitely a must-have for every wino/sangria connoisseur who is into clean eating and nutrition.

**For other “cleaner” party drinks, check out my healthy and gluten free cocktails and gluten free party recipes!

One part of clean eating that took getting used to, is my body grew sensitive to preservatives & extra sugar…Since I was no longer being exposed to them on a daily basis. Luckily, this Plum Sangria Punch is fabulously clean! So drink clean, IMPRESS, and bring the party! Just because you are trying to live a healthier lifestyle, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your night a little 😉.

*Reference this list for a fabulous list of gluten-free liquors for my gluten-free ladies <3

Here’s to partying safe and regaining our sparkle together,
✧❈✯✦Jenn✦✯❈✧