Alcohol

Alcohol is part of many celebrations, and there's room for joy in a healthy life. It helps to know what it asks of your body, though. Your body treats alcohol as something to clear right away, it can leave you dehydrated, and even a drink or two is linked with lighter, more broken sleep. Mixed drinks often carry a lot of sugar, too.

If you choose to drink, a few habits make a difference:

• Eat a meal with protein and healthy fat first
• Alternate each drink with a glass of water
• Choose simple pours, like wine or a spirit with soda water and lime, over sugary mixers
• Plan a few alcohol-free days each week

Try this: next time, make your second drink sparkling water with a splash of tart cherry juice or fresh citrus.