Everything You Need to Know About the Drinks That Could Save Your Morning

In today’s fast-paced world, where wellness and pleasure often collide, the elixir has emerged as a drink that encapsulates both classic charm and modern flair. Rooted in ancient Greek beliefs that elixirs could grant immortality, these beverages today are more about boosting your mood and enhancing your health than achieving eternal life.

As Alexis Osborne, a bartender at Denver’s Acorn, puts it: “I like to include something healthy into something indulgent.” This philosophy drives her creative approach, where she combines nutritious ingredients with spirited delights. By exploring the aisles of local natural grocery stores, she finds inspiration in the vibrant array of fresh produce and herbs.

Osborne’s innovative cocktails, like the Along the Beeten Path, which features beets, lemon, and nutmeg, or the Fennel Countdown with fennel, clove, and apricot, illustrate how health-conscious choices can transform a drink. She’s also keen on incorporating anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric and heart-healthy cinnamon, ensuring each ingredient contributes not only flavor but also beneficial properties. For instance, nutmeg acts as a brain tonic, while apricots are rich in antioxidants and support bone strength.

To create your own elixir at home, start with a healthy base. Look for ingredients that not only enhance the drink’s flavor but also pack a nutritional punch. Fennel, for example, is praised for its potential benefits in treating heart disease, while figs are loaded with fiber and fatty acids that promote heart health and weight loss.

Jennifer Peters of Denver’s Just BE Kitchen has embraced the elixir trend by introducing a variety of feel-good drinks that align with a paleo, gluten-free, and sugar-free lifestyle. One standout is her Kombucha Mimosa, which combines the effervescent qualities of kombucha with sparkling wine. The addition of maca root, known for its numerous health benefits, makes this drink not only delicious but nutritious. “People go crazy over the Kombucha Mimosas,” Peters notes, highlighting the appeal of probiotics in a celebratory format.

Making this drink at home is simple: mix one part kombucha with two parts sparkling wine in a flute, and customize it with your favorite flavors for a refreshing twist.

Another creative way to enhance your elixirs is through flavorful ice cubes. Instead of using plain water, consider freezing beet juice for a boost of antioxidants, or a lemon-mint mixture for digestive health. Even ginger juice can make for invigorating ice cubes that add a zesty kick while aiding digestion. Just be sure that whatever you freeze complements the overall flavor profile of your drink.

As Peters explains, the notion of enjoying a drink doesn’t have to come with guilt or the feeling of sacrifice. “Not everything in life has to be about sacrifice,” she asserts. By blending clean spirits with wholesome ingredients, we can enjoy our drinks without compromising our wellness goals.

Whether you're looking to indulge or seeking a refreshing way to boost your health, elixirs offer the perfect blend of both worlds. So go ahead, experiment with ingredients, and craft a drink that delights both your palate and your well-being!