Imagine sitting back on a sunny spring afternoon, the air filled with the scent of blooming flowers and the sound of new life. In your hand is a glass, not just any glass, but one that holds a concoction so refreshing and flavorful, it dances on your palate and invigorates your soul. This isn't a scene from a fancy resort advertisement—it's an experience you can create right at home with the magic of mocktails, particularly this Clementine Dream Mocktail. This recipe is part of the "Garden Gatherings" series, where we dive into recipes to elevate your hosting skills.
The Clementine Dream mocktail is inspired by the viral orange creamsicle mocktail that features an orange flavoured gut-healthy soda mixed with your favourite cream-based drink like coconut milk, whipped cream or even coffee creamer. The result is a nostalgic, citrusy and creamy drink. That's exactly what you get in this recipe.
WHAT IS A MOCKTAIL?
Mocktails have surged in popularity for a myriad of reasons. They offer the complexity and enjoyment of traditional cocktails without the alcohol, making them accessible to everyone, regardless of age or lifestyle choice. More than just a trend, mocktails represent a shift towards mindful consumption, emphasizing flavor and experience over the buzz. This Clementine Mocktail stands out in this vibrant category for its zesty flavor, visual appeal, and health benefits, especially in terms of supporting hormone health.
Mocktails are pretty simple to make as they usually involve a blend of fruit juices, soft drinks and fizzy soda water. With more "sober-curious" drinkers on the rise, there are even brands that have crafted non-alcoholic alternatives to mainstream liquors like gin, rum and tequila — this brand here is a winner *not sponsored*
These alternatives have been gaining points among those who have had unhealthy relationships with alcohol, aren't huge drinkers and even those who are social drinkers *raises hand* On the flipside, there are some who feel like the term "mocktail" is pointless and words like non-alcoholic, spiritless or zero-proof work best.
A TOAST TO HORMONE HEALTH
We're not just enjoying a delicious non-alcoholic beverage; we're actively participating in a choice that favors hormonal balance and overall well-being.
Clementines, the star ingredient, are a powerhouse of vitamin C, essential for the synthesis of hormones that deal with stress response, like cortisol. Vitamin C has been shown to help reduce the physical and psychological effects of stress on the body. By mitigating the stress response, vitamin C can help maintain a balanced state, which is crucial for overall hormone health.
Coconut milk, rich in healthy fats particularly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), coconut milk can support thyroid function and help regulate blood sugar levels. Insulin is the hormone that regulates blood glucose and when there is an imbalance, it can cause issues like fatigue, brain fog, increased cravings and more. It can also worsen symptoms in health issues like PCOS.
HORMONES AND ALCOHOL
The choice of a mocktail over an alcoholic beverage becomes a mindful decision supporting not just immediate enjoyment but long-term health and hormonal balance. Consuming alcohol can significantly impact your body’s hormonal balance. In fact, studies have shown that alcohol can lower testosterone levels in men, disrupt menstrual cycles in women, and affect fertility in both genders. Alcohol metabolism also stresses the liver, a key organ in hormone regulation, which can lead to imbalances in estrogen and testosterone levels. Incorporating alcohol-free days into your week and choosing mocktails over cocktails can have a profound impact on your hormone health, energy levels, and overall mood.
Let's get into the recipe:
INGREDIENTS
2oz clementine juice
2oz coconut milk, light version
Your favourtie prebiotic/probiotic soda
Directions:
- Add the clementine juice and coconut milk to a shaker with ice. Shake until combined and chilled. Pour into a glass and top with probiotic soda. Serve in a glass rimmed with sea salt, coconut flakes and clementine zest.
