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Writer's pictureMary Johnson MEd, MSN, RD

Alcohol and Cancer Risk: How to Make 3 Festive Shrub Recipes

Updated: Nov 15, 2023




Introducing three delightful shrub recipes for the festive season, I'm Mary Johnson, a Registered Dietitian and the proud owner of Healing Food for Cancer. As we embark on the holiday season with joy and merriment, it's essential to be mindful of our dietary choices, especially when it comes to beverages. In this video, I'll be sharing with you three tantalizing shrub recipes that can be enjoyed by all, whether you prefer an alcoholic or non-alcoholic version.

Read on for more information about alcohol and cancer risk as well as to see the recipe in print.


What is Shrub?

Shrubs, a unique blend of fruit, herbs or spices, vinegar, sweetener, and water, offer a perfect balance of flavor, sweetness, and acidity. These beverages have a rich history and are making a comeback as a trendy and healthier alternative to conventional cocktails. But before we delve into these scrumptious recipes, it's important to touch upon a subject of growing concern—alcohol and its potential link to cancer risk.


Alcohol and Cancer Risk

Numerous studies have explored the relationship between alcohol consumption and cancer risk. The evidence suggests that alcohol can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer. Therefore, it's wise to consume alcoholic beverages in moderation and be aware of the potential health implications.


The good news is that you can enjoy these shrub recipes as both alcoholic and non-alcoholic alternatives. So, as we usher in the New Year with a toast, you can make a conscious choice that suits your preferences and health goals. Let's savor the delicious flavors and therapeutic properties of these festive holiday shrubs, and remember, your well-being is always a top priority. Cheers to a healthier and happier celebration!


Three Shrub Recipes

Choose from 3 recipes for shrub - a festive cocktail!


Pomegranate, Cardamom and Ginger, Grapefruit, Lemon and Honey and Blood Orange, Cranberry and Rosemary - 3 Recipes for homemade cocktails - Shrub!


New Year's Shrub Recipe

A Template for Ingredients

2 c fruit 1 T herbs or spices

1 c vinegar (I suggest champagne vinegar)

½ c sugar or honey

½ c water Sparkling water OR alcohol of choice


In this video, I made the following combinations: 1. Pomegranate, Cardamom and Ginger Shrub - (Note – One pomegranate was about 1.5 c of fruit – I reduced the other ingredients slightly to adjust) I used 1 T cardamom and 1 T ginger. I also used sugar so as to not interfere with the other flavors. 2.


Grapefruit, Ginger and Lemon with Honey Shrub – I used a whole grapefruit and ½ lemon with 1 T of ginger. I used honey for sweetener. 3.


Blood Orange, Cranberry and Rosemary – I used 3 oranges and added cranberries to make 2 cups of fruit with 1 T of diced rosemary. I used sugar for sweetener.


A Template for Assembling Shurb

1. Combine fruit, herbs/spices, sweetener and water over medium heat. Stir to combine. 2. Place over medium-high heat.

3. Stir occasionally, until sugar dissolves, about 10 minutes. You may wish to gently press the fruit with a potato masher to help release the juices.

4. Add vinegar.

5. Remove from heat.

6. Allow to cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.

7. Pour entire mixture into an airtight container.

8. Refrigerate at least 8 and up to 12 hours.

9. Strain mixture twice through a fine-mesh strainer.

10. Transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.


For the Cocktails:

1.Slowly pour chilled sparkling water into cocktail glasses.

2. Stir very gently to mix.

3. Individual glasses can be garnished with cranberries, pomegranate or a lemon twist. 4. Serve immediately. Note: Don't discard the fruit! It contains the most nutrients! It may be placed in a blender to create a salad dressing or marinade. It may also be used as a chutney.


This is not intended to substitute for one on one medical care.


Healing Food for Cancer is a virtual integrative nutrition counseling practice. I’m licensed in TX, FL, KY and OH.. To learn more about working with me, call 513-607-6659.



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