If a person wishes to consume alcohol while maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle, low calorie alcoholic drinks in moderation may be the way. Some tips include avoiding drinks with excessive sugars or syrups and sticking to “clear” options such as vodka, gin, or white wine spritzer.
For some, alcohol is an important aspect of socializing and unwinding, but it is also a significant source of “empty” calories. Empty calories are those that provide little or no nutritional value beyond their energetic content. Consuming too many empty calories may lead to weight gain, obesity, and associated health problems.
Not all alcoholic beverages are equal. There are many low calorie options, such as light beers and wines and low calorie spirits. Numerous options are available for those looking to enjoy a night out without the calories.
This article outlines some of the lowest-calorie alcohol choices and the benefits of these options.
The crisp and refreshing taste of a vodka soda is a beloved staple in the world of mixed drinks. To elevate the flavor of this drink, which pairs vodka with soda, people can experiment with healthy garnishes, such as:
- a slice of fresh cucumber
- a sprig of mint
- a spritz of citrus juice
A standard vodka soda has
A “G and T” is a simple, classic cocktail that combines gin and tonic water over a glass of ice. However, by substituting regular tonic water with a diet alternative, a person can create a lower-calorie alternative.
A 1.5-oz serving of gin is
The dry martini is a timeless classic, consisting of gin and vermouth topped with olives or lemon wedges. Vermouth is an aromatized, fortified wine that is flavored with various botanicals, such as herbs, spices, and fruits.
Dry vermouth has fewer calories than sweet vermouth. So a dry martini made with 0.5 oz of dry vermouth (at
A white wine spritzer is a refreshing drink made by combining white wine with club soda or sparkling water. It is a great choice for wine lovers who want to reduce their calorie intake while still enjoying their favorite drink.
A person can have a 5-oz serving of white wine for
Champagne is a sparkling wine that originates from the Champagne region of France. It has a signature effervescence that results from a secondary fermentation process that creates sparkling bubbles.
With an average 4-oz glass containing around
The mojito is a classic Cuban cocktail with endless customization options. It is a refreshing and light drink traditionally made with rum, mint, lime, sugar, and soda water. The combination of mint and lime provides a zesty and fresh flavor.
A 6-ounce serving of mojito contains around
Light beer is a low calorie alternative to regular beer that typically contains 30–50% fewer calories than its counterpart. Manufacturers brew light beer using the same ingredients as traditional beer but with lower alcohol content and fewer carbohydrates.
A person can enjoy 12 oz of light beer for around
Rum and coke, otherwise known as a Cuba Libre, is a classic cocktail that is easy to transform into a low calorie option. A 1.5-oz serving of rum is around
Tequila is a low calorie spirit that pairs well with soda water. This simple and refreshing drink is a welcome change from vodka soda that lends itself perfectly to citrus flavors.
A 1.5-oz serving of tequila has
The espresso martini combines the bold flavors of coffee and vodka for a delicious and indulgent drink. It is traditionally made by mixing freshly brewed espresso with vodka, coffee liqueur, and a splash of simple syrup.
While this cocktail has a great rich taste, it can be high in calories and sugar. However, there are ways to make a lower-calorie version of this popular drink.
By using sugar-free simple syrup, a person can reduce the calorie content without sacrificing the taste. Additionally, using a high quality espresso means a person can avoid the calorie-laden liqueur without losing the bold flavor.
Low calorie alcoholic drinks offer several benefits, including:
- Helping weight management: Opting for low calorie alcoholic drinks may help a person manage their overall calorie intake, which may make it easier to manage their weight.
- Reducing sugar intake: Many alcoholic drinks contain a lot of
added sugars that may contribute to weight gain and other health problems. However, switching to low calorie alcoholic drinks may improve overall physical health. - Aiding hydration: Consuming alcohol can lead to dehydration and other health problems. Low calorie alcoholic drinks, such as spritzers and low alcohol beers, typically have a higher water content, which may make them a better option for staying hydrated while still enjoying a drink.
Low calorie alcoholic drinks offer a range of benefits that can help individuals maintain a healthy lifestyle while still enjoying their favorite beverages.
From light beer and wine spritzers to rum and diet coke, there are many options for low calorie alcoholic drinks. By making simple substitutions, a person can still enjoy a delicious and refreshing drink while staying on track with their health and wellness goals.