It’s no secret that the infamous “freshman fifteen” weight gain is often attributed to the increased consumption of alcohol that comes with newfound freedom in college, especially if the alcohol is accompanied by high-calorie mixers. In general, drinking some of the “tastier” beverages out there, whether they are alcoholic or non-alcoholic, can slip some unwanted floods of extra calories into your diet (Did you know that the average Long Island Iced Tea has 780 calories? Eek.).

Fortunately, thanks to some recipes from Hungry Girl (nutritionist Lisa Lillen), I’ve compiled a few seriously good low-cal cocktails and other yummy drinks that won’t make you feel deprived, but won’t wreak havoc on your diet.

“Magical Low-Calorie Margarita”

Ingredients:

6 ounces diet lemon-lime soda

1 1/2 ounces of tequila

1 packet (two 5-cal) servings of sugar-free powdered lemonade drink mix (use half if you want your drink less sweet!)

2 tablespoons lime juice

5-8 ice cubes or 1 cup of crushed ice

Optional: lime wedge (for a cute garnish!) Read More »

It must be summer — I can’t get through a single day without going to a picnic or a barbeque. Literally. I even eat hot dogs and corn – on – the cob for breakfast.

Not that I’m complaining, but one can only consume so much brie, bread and wine on a checkered blanket in a beautiful park before the routine turns stale.

Fortunately, Jane Magazine offers some alternative ideas for a sweet summer pool party (which can easily be converted into a park/patio/apartment/street party), complete with snow cones and lemongrass cocktails.

Check it out here.