Refresh, Restore, and Celebrate: The Rejuv Spritz for a Vibrant New Year

Published on   Last Updated on  December 31, 2025

The Rejuv Spritz

As we step into a new year, I love beginning with a sense of celebration that nourishes, not depletes, the body. Here's my go-to festive drink: refreshing, alcohol-optional, and designed with cellular vitality in mind.

At Rejuv Wellness®, we believe celebration and wellbeing can coexist beautifully. The Rejuv Spritz offers that bright, uplifting feel of a cocktail while gently supporting hydration, antioxidant defence, and digestive ease, a perfect way to toast the year ahead without abandoning your health goals.

This recipe reflects the Rejuv philosophy: simple, functional, and evidence-informed. Each ingredient earns its place by enhancing the body's natural resilience, helping to balance liver function, immunity, and oxidative stress response¹.

Why This Works (Clinically Speaking)

  • Polyphenols & antioxidants: Pomegranate and citrus juices deliver powerful antioxidant compounds that neutralise free radicals and protect cellular health².
  • Digestive bitters: Gentle herbal bitters support bile flow and liver detoxification, easing post-festive bloating and sluggish digestion³.
  • Mineral-rich hydration: Sparkling mineral water replenishes electrolytes and enhances cellular balance⁴.
  • Low sugar, clean flavours: No syrups or artificial sweeteners—keeping the metabolic load light on your liver and microbiome⁵.

The Rejuv Spritz (Serves 1)

Base Ingredients (Alcohol-Free)

  • 120 ml chilled sparkling mineral water
  • 60 ml fresh blood orange or ruby grapefruit juice
  • 30 ml pomegranate juice (no added sugar)
  • 1–2 dashes digestive bitters (non-alcoholic if preferred)
  • Fresh rosemary sprig
  • Handful of ice
  • Optional: ½ tsp raw honey or a few drops of stevia, if needed

Optional Alcohol Upgrade (Choose One)

  • 30–45 ml organic vodka or gin, or
  • 60 ml dry prosecco or champagne (replace half the sparkling water)

Method

  1. Fill a large wine or spritz glass with ice.
  2. Pour in the citrus juice, pomegranate juice, and bitters.
  3. Add sparkling water (or prosecco, if using).
  4. Stir gently once to combine.
  5. Lightly clap the rosemary between your palms to release its oils, then place it on top as a garnish.

Make It Extra "Rejuv"

For clients and friends who love functional upgrades, here are my favourite tweaks:

  • Add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime to awaken digestion and enhance enzymatic activity⁶.
  • Rim the glass with a touch of fine Celtic salt to restore essential minerals⁷.

When to Enjoy

  • New Year's Eve or Day
  • As a mindful upgrade to sugary cocktails
  • During your social or detox reset
  • Alongside meals to support gut health and digestion

The Rejuv Philosophy Behind the Glass

In my clinic, I often remind clients that celebration should leave you feeling energised, not inflamed. This drink honours your nervous system while supporting hydration, liver balance, and immune readiness. These are small rituals that anchor us in resilience, clarity, and connection as we enter a new season.

Here's to clarity of mind, strength in body, and cellular vitality in 2026. May your celebration be joyful, grounded, and deeply nourishing.

From my family to yours, wishing you peace, health, and love as we step into a bright new year.


 

 

 

References

  1. Packer L. et al. "The role of oxidative stress in health and disease." Free Radic Biol Med, 1995; 19(2): 227–250. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7649498/

  2. Noda Y. et al. "Antioxidant activity of pomegranate fruit juice and its components." J Agric Food Chem, 2002; 50(7): 166–171. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11879087/

  3. Lirussi F., Beccarello A. "Bitter taste and digestion: clinical and physiological perspectives." Dig Liver Dis, 2000; 32(7): 588–594. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11023616/

  4. Costill DL. et al. "Electrolyte balance and hydration." Med Sci Sports Exerc, 1986; 18(3): 344–348. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3523109/

  5. Te Morenga L. et al. "Dietary sugars and body weight: systematic review and meta-analyses." BMJ, 2013; 346:e7492. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23321486/

  6. Bühlmayer L. et al. "Gastrointestinal physiology and lemon juice in digestion." Eur J Nutr, 2021; 60(4):1783–1792. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32966178/

  7. Finstad EW. et al. "Effect of dietary sodium on fluid balance and performance." Med Sci Sports Exerc, 2001; 33(5): 907–912. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11323546/

Dr Simone Laubscher, PhD, Clinical Nutritionist & Naturopath

Dr Simone Laubscher, PhD, is a clinical nutritionist, naturopath, and wellness formulator with over 25 years of experience. Her work combines integrated and functional naturopathic medicine principles with evidence‑based nutritional science and holistic approaches to support long‑term health. She has developed wellness protocols and products used globally, drawing on decades of client care, research, and product formulation. While not a medical doctor, Simone’s expertise lies in helping clients restore balance across the body systems through personalised nutrition, supplementation, and lifestyle strategies.

FAQs

Why make a mindful drink like the Rejuv Spritz instead of a cocktail?

Because it gives you the same festive feeling without the inflammatory effects of alcohol. It supports hydration, gut balance, and energy instead of depleting them.

What health benefits do bitters provide?

Digestive bitters can stimulate bile flow, aid liver detoxification, and help the body process holiday meals more efficiently.

Is sparkling mineral water better than soda water?

Yes—mineral water naturally provides magnesium, calcium, and electrolytes that help your cells function well and maintain hydration.

How does the Rejuv Spritz support the nervous system?

Hydration and antioxidants help modulate stress load on the nervous system, reducing inflammation and promoting clarity and calm.

Can I make this drink ahead of time?

You can pre-mix the juices and bitters, but always add the sparkling water right before serving to keep it bubbly and fresh.

What’s a good occasion to enjoy the Rejuv Spritz?

Any time you want to celebrate with intention—New Year’s Eve, gatherings, or as a restorative weekend ritual.

What are some easy Rejuv-style upgrades?

Adding a pinch of mineral salt or squeeze of lemon turns your Spritz into a mini wellness tonic for digestion and hydration.