7 Deliciously Dressed Up Drinks with No Alcohol

 

Craving something fizzy and fun? Enjoy these extra-special drinks, no booze required.

Looking for festive drinks to make that don’t contain any alcohol? Non-alcoholic beverages, often called mocktails, are becoming more popular, offering all the flavor and excitement of traditional cocktails but without the booze. Whether you're hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion or you just want a refreshing drink that feels a bit indulgent, these delicious alcohol-free options will keep your taste buds happy.

7 Alcohol-Free Drinks You’ll Love

Grab a glass and mix up one of these fun and festive mocktails:

1. Sparkling Berry Splash – Berries and bubbles make a perfect pair! Muddle fresh strawberries, blueberries and raspberries in a glass, then add sparkling water for a light and refreshing drink. A squeeze of lemon or lime adds a zesty twist. Serve over ice and garnish with a few whole berries for an extra-fancy touch. This drink is packed with antioxidants and bursting with fresh flavor.
2. Frozen Mockarita – Cool, refreshing and bursting with citrusy goodness, this frozen concoction is the perfect way to bring the party to your glass—no alcohol needed! Combine lime, orange and grapefruit to create an icy, slushy drink that tastes just like a classic margarita but keeps things light and healthy.
3. Cucumber Mint Refresher – If you're looking for something cooling, this drink is a must-try. Thinly slice a cucumber and muddle it with fresh mint leaves. Add a touch of honey for natural sweetness, then pour in sparkling water. The result is a crisp, spa-like drink that feels hydrating and refreshing. Serve in a tall glass with extra mint leaves for a stylish look.
4. Frozen Berry Mocktails – Bright, fruity and refreshingly icy, these frozen mocktails are the ultimate summer sippers. Packed with blended berries and a hint of citrus, they deliver a sweet-tart punch that’s perfect for poolside lounging, backyard barbecues or any sunny day celebration—and they look so festive!
5. Citrus Basil Spritzer – This vibrant mocktail balances sweet citrus flavors with a touch of herbal freshness. Mix orange and grapefruit juices with a few fresh basil leaves. Top with sparkling water and serve over ice. This drink is packed with vitamin C and offers a unique combination of flavors.
6. Ginger Peach Soda – For a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, try this unique combination. Mix peach nectar with a splash of ginger ale for a lightly fizzy and flavorful drink. Add a squeeze of lime juice for a bit of tartness, then serve over ice. The ginger adds a little zing, making this a great alternative to traditional sodas.
7. Tropical Pineapple Cooler – Craving a tropical escape? This drink will take you there! Mix pineapple juice with coconut water for natural sweetness and hydration. Add a squeeze of lime juice and pour over ice. Garnish with a pineapple slice and a maraschino cherry for a fun island vibe. This drink is perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you want a little sunshine in a glass.

These non-alcoholic drinks prove that you don’t need alcohol to have a fun and flavorful beverage. Whether you’re looking for something fruity, fizzy or refreshing, these drinks give you plenty of options for delicious and festive beverages.

Copyright 2025 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc.  Health eCooks® Heart Healthy Recipes® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Date Last Reviewed: February 12, 2025

Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor

Medical Review: Jane Schwartz, RDN, CLT

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No information provided by Baldwin Publishing, Inc. in any article is a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical condition. Baldwin Publishing, Inc. strongly suggests that you use this information in consultation with your doctor or other health professional. Use or viewing of any Baldwin Publishing, Inc. article signifies your understanding and agreement to the disclaimer and acceptance of these terms of use.

7 Effective Cardio Exercises for People Who Hate Running

 

No need to run to get your heart pumping. Here are some fun exercises to do instead.

Running is a great form of cardiovascular exercise. It strengthens your heart, boosts endurance and improves overall health. But if you’re not a fan of running, there are plenty of fun and effective ways to get your heart pumping without hitting the pavement.

Here are 7 popular ways to get in a recommended 150 minutes or more of moderate cardio exercise each week:

1. Dancing – Whether hip-hop, salsa or ballroom, moving to music gets your heart rate up and burns calories. Plus, it's so enjoyable that it doesn’t feel like exercise! Dancing also enhances coordination, balance and flexibility. You can take a dance class, follow along with online workouts or just turn up your favorite tunes and dance around your living room.
2. Swimming – One of the best full-body workouts you can do, swimming is also easy on your joints. The resistance of the water tones muscles, while steady movement increases heart and lung function. Whether you're doing laps, water aerobics or treading water, you’re getting an excellent cardiovascular workout.
3. Cycling – Hopping on a bike is a great way to work your heart and legs at the same time. Cycling strengthens your lower body, improves endurance and is easy on the joints. If you love nature, outdoor biking is a great way to explore new trails. If you prefer to stay indoors, a stationary bike allows you to control intensity and resistance for a customized workout.
4. Jump Rope – This activity isn’t just for kids. It’s one of the most effective cardio workouts you can do. Just a few minutes of jumping gets your heart pumping and works multiple muscle groups, including your legs, core and arms. Try mixing up your routine with different jump styles, like single-leg jumps or crisscrosses, to keep it exciting.
5. Rowing – Using a rowing machine is low-impact, making it a great option for those with joint pain, and helps improve cardiovascular fitness, builds endurance and strengthens muscles. If you have access to a lake or river, outdoor rowing or kayaking can be an adventurous way to get similar benefits while enjoying nature.
6. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) – This type of training, involving short bursts of intense exercise followed by brief rest periods, is highly effective for burning calories, improving heart health and building endurance. Exercises like burpees, jumping jacks and mountain climbers can be done in quick sessions and can be tailored to your fitness level. You can also do it anywhere—no gym required.
7. Hiking – Whether you go for a short nature walk or a challenging mountain hike, this activity offers physical and mental health benefits. Walking on trails with varying elevations challenges your heart, lungs and muscles. It also helps reduce stress, boosts mental clarity and improves balance.

The key to staying in shape is finding exercises you enjoy doing so that being active feels like a reward rather than a chore. Try different workouts—you might be surprised at how much fun cardio can be!

Copyright 2025 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc.  Health eCooks® Heart Healthy Recipes® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Date Last Reviewed: February 13, 2025

Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor

Medical Review: Andrew Overman, DPT, MS, COMT, CSCS

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No information provided by Baldwin Publishing, Inc. in any article is a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical condition. Baldwin Publishing, Inc. strongly suggests that you use this information in consultation with your doctor or other health professional. Use or viewing of any Baldwin Publishing, Inc. article signifies your understanding and agreement to the disclaimer and acceptance of these terms of use.

7 Daily Habits That Help Reduce Stress

 

Here are some easy ways to keep stress in check so you stay happier and healthier.

Stress is a normal part of life, but too much of it can take a serious toll on your health. When stress builds up, it can leave you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or exhausted. Over time, it contributes to physical health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease and a weakened immune system. Stress can also affect your mental well-being, making it harder to focus, sleep or enjoy daily activities.

The good news is that small daily habits can help keep stress in check. Here are 7 simple ways to ease stress:

1. Get moving. Physical activity releases endorphins, chemicals in the brain that help boost your mood and lower stress levels. Activities like walking, jogging, biking or dancing can serve as a healthy outlet for tension. You don’t need to spend hours at the gym. Just 30 minutes of movement a day can make a difference. Even stretching or a quick walk around the block helps when you're feeling overwhelmed.
2. Eat healthy foods. A diet full of processed foods, sugary snacks and caffeine leaves you feeling sluggish and irritable. On the other hand, eating whole, nutrient-rich foods helps balance your mood and energy levels. Focus on meals with lean proteins, whole grains and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Drinking enough water is also important. Dehydration can add to feelings of stress and fatigue.
3. Set boundaries. Learning to say no when you're overwhelmed is an important part of stress management. Prioritize what’s truly important and don’t be afraid to set limits on work, social commitments or obligations that drain your energy. Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary for maintaining balance in your life.
4. Practice deep breathing. This calming practice can help you relax almost instantly by lowering your heart rate, reducing muscle tension and making you feel more in control of your emotions. Find a quiet place, sit comfortably and take a slow, deep breath in through your nose. Hold it for a few seconds, then exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat this for a few minutes.
5. Laugh more. Laughter releases feel-good hormones and reduces the level of stress hormones in your body. Watching a funny movie, reading a humorous book or sharing jokes with friends can lift your mood. Even if you don’t feel like laughing, sometimes faking a chuckle can turn into the real thing and brighten your day.
6. Connect with others. Humans are social beings and spending time with others can help relieve stress. Whether it's a deep conversation with a close friend, a family game night or simply texting someone who makes you smile, social connection is essential for emotional health.
7. Get enough sleep. Your body needs time to recharge and when you’re running on too little rest, your mood, focus and energy suffer. To improve sleep quality, establish a bedtime routine. Turn off screens, dim the lights and do something relaxing, like reading or stretching, before bed. Prioritizing sleep can make a noticeable difference in how you handle daily stressors.

By adopting these habits, you can take small but meaningful steps toward reducing stress and improving your mental and physical health.

Copyright 2025 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc.  Health eCooks® Heart Healthy Recipes® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Date Last Reviewed: February 18, 2025

Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor

Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD

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No information provided by Baldwin Publishing, Inc. in any article is a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical condition. Baldwin Publishing, Inc. strongly suggests that you use this information in consultation with your doctor or other health professional. Use or viewing of any Baldwin Publishing, Inc. article signifies your understanding and agreement to the disclaimer and acceptance of these terms of use.

 

Do Low-Carb Diets Reduce Diabetes Risk?

 

Eating fewer carbs may lower blood sugar, but pay attention to the types of food you’re eating.

Diabetes is a disease that makes it hard for your body to effectively manage blood sugar levels. Many people wonder if cutting back on carbohydrates, which can raise blood sugar, helps lower the risk of developing this chronic condition.

Carbohydrates, or "carbs," are found in natural foods like fruit, vegetables, rice and potatoes. They’re also found in processed and prepared foods containing sugar or flour like bread, cookies, candy and pretzels. Low-carb diets focus on eating fewer high-carbohydrate foods while getting a bigger percentage of daily calories from protein and fat.

Studies suggest that diets lower in carbs may help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, mainly because they help promote weight loss. Carrying extra weight is one of the biggest risk factors for developing diabetes, so losing weight can make a big difference in your risk. Cutting back on carbs may also help keep blood sugar levels more stable, another key factor in diabetes prevention.

However, some research suggests that not all low-carb diets are equally beneficial. A recent study published in the journal Circulation and presented at an American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions conference found that low-carb diets high in animal-based foods, such as red meat and butter, may actually increase diabetes risk. In contrast, low-carb diets that emphasize plant-based foods, such as nuts, seeds, lentils and whole grains, may help lower risk. This highlights the importance of food quality, not just carbohydrate quantity, when it comes to diabetes prevention.

Instead of focusing primarily on reducing carbs to lower diabetes risk, it may be more beneficial to think about the types of carbohydrates you eat. Whole grains like brown rice, oatmeal and whole wheat bread provide fiber and nutrients that support overall health. Fruits and vegetables are also great choices because they contain vitamins and minerals the body needs. On the other hand, sugary foods like candy, cookies and sodas can cause blood sugar spikes and should be limited.

When it comes to increasing the amount of protein and fat in your diet while limiting carbohydrates, it’s also important to think about the foods you eat. Opt for lean protein, such as skinless poultry, fish, eggs and lean cuts of beef and pork. Instead of consuming a lot of animal-based fats, such as from butter and cheese, eat more plant-based fats, like avocado and olive oil. Making these swaps may help reduce diabetes risk.

Low-carb diets can be effective in lowering your chance of developing diabetes, but they need to be well-balanced. Simply cutting carbs without considering the types of foods you’re eating may not provide the health benefits you’re looking for. A diet rich in plant-based foods, healthy fats and lean protein can be a smarter way to lower diabetes risk while maintaining overall health. Before making big changes to your diet, it's always a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to determine what’s best for you.

Copyright 2025 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc.  Health eCooks® Heart Healthy Recipes® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Date Last Reviewed: February 12, 2025

Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor

Medical Review: Jane Schwartz, RDN, CLT

Learn more about Baldwin Publishing Inc. editorial policy, privacy policy, ADA compliance and sponsorship policy.

No information provided by Baldwin Publishing, Inc. in any article is a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical condition. Baldwin Publishing, Inc. strongly suggests that you use this information in consultation with your doctor or other health professional. Use or viewing of any Baldwin Publishing, Inc. article signifies your understanding and agreement to the disclaimer and acceptance of these terms of use.

 

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