Glühwein not number one - these are the most popular drinks - Germans lose track of sugar and alcohol during festive indulgence

The festive season in Germany often means indulging in sweet treats and warm drinks. But many struggle to keep track of just how much sugar they consume during the holidays. A new look at last year's habits shows that nearly half of Germans find it hard to resist alcohol and sugary snacks in December. Last year, 44% of Germans admitted they lost count of how many sugary drinks they had over the holidays. Mulled wine, punch, and hot chocolate remain staples at Christmas markets, yet only 20% of people had tried mulled wine by mid-November. Despite its popularity, nearly half of Germans think mulled wine contains too much sugar.

Surveys from 2023 reveal the top ten favourite Advent drinks. Alongside mulled wine, *Feuerzangenbowle* (fire tongs punch), hot chocolate, and egg punch rank highly. Yet few Germans check the nutritional details of these festive beverages. Some drinks can even exceed the recommended daily sugar intake in a single serving. The pre-Christmas period is widely seen as a time to relax usual dietary rules. For many, this means enjoying rich drinks and treats without worrying about the consequences.

The data highlights a clear trend: Germans love their festive drinks but often overlook sugar content. With mulled wine and other sweet beverages dominating the season, consumption spikes—even if people later regret the excess. This pattern suggests a recurring challenge for those trying to balance indulgence and health during the holidays.