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When it comes to enjoying a drink without compromising your calorie count, it’s all about making smarter choices. Alcohol can often be a hidden culprit when it comes to our daily calorie intake. But fear not! You don’t have to skip out on your favorite drinks or the fun social gatherings. With the right choices, you can indulge without feeling guilty. Here are 9 of the lowest calorie alcoholic drinks to help you maintain your waistline while sipping your way through a great evening.
1. Vodka Soda
Starting with a classic, the vodka soda is a go-to drink for those looking to minimize their calorie intake while still enjoying a cocktail. A standard vodka soda is typically just vodka and soda water, meaning it’s incredibly low in calories. On average, a serving of vodka soda comes in at just 90 calories, depending on the amount of vodka used. Adding a lime wedge or lemon twist can enhance the flavor without adding any extra calories.
2. Light Beer
If you’re a beer lover but want to keep the calories in check, light beer is your best friend. Light beers are designed to offer the same refreshing taste as regular beer, but with fewer calories. Typically, light beers range from 90 to 110 calories per bottle, which is significantly lower than regular beers, which can exceed 150 calories or more. Popular options include Bud Light, Miller Lite, and Coors Light.
3. Wine Spritzer
A wine spritzer combines wine and club soda or sparkling water, which helps lower the drink’s calorie content. While a glass of wine can be upwards of 120-130 calories per 5-ounce serving, a spritzer can cut that down to about 80-90 calories. This drink is a light, refreshing option, perfect for those who want to sip something bubbly without breaking their calorie budget.
4. Champagne
Champagne and sparkling wines are not only festive but also quite low in calories, especially when compared to cocktails. A 4-ounce serving of brut champagne has around 90 calories. Brut champagne has less sugar than sweet varieties, making it a better option if you’re trying to watch your calorie intake. For an even lighter option, try a glass of Prosecco, which can be slightly lower in calories than traditional champagne.
5. Tequila with Lime
If you’re looking for something a bit more bold, tequila with lime is a fantastic low-calorie choice. A shot of tequila (about 1.5 ounces) contains around 96 calories. Pair it with fresh lime juice for a refreshing kick. Skip the sugary mixers like margarita mix or soda to keep the calories down. This drink is perfect for those who want a clean, simple option with no added sugars.
6. Gin and Tonic (Light Tonic)
Gin and tonic is another classic cocktail that can be quite low in calories, especially if you opt for light tonic water. Regular tonic water contains a significant amount of sugar, which can quickly add up in calories. By switching to a low-calorie tonic, you can bring your gin and tonic down to about 100 calories per serving. Add a twist of lime or a sprig of mint for extra flavor without extra calories.
7. Whiskey on the Rocks
Whiskey lovers, rejoice! If you’re a fan of straight spirits, whiskey is one of the lowest-calorie options available. A 1.5-ounce serving of whiskey contains about 100 calories. Enjoy it neat or on the rocks for a simple yet satisfying drink without the calories that come from sugary mixers. For an added twist, try it with a splash of water or a few dashes of bitters.
8. Mojito (With Less Sugar)
A mojito is a refreshing and vibrant drink made with rum, mint, lime, soda water, and sugar. To reduce the calories, ask for your mojito with less sugar or use a sugar-free sweetener. A traditional mojito can have upwards of 150-200 calories, but a lighter version can come in at around 100 calories or even less. This drink is perfect for those who want a slightly sweet cocktail without going overboard on calories.
9. Bloody Mary
The Bloody Mary is another great low-calorie option, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake at brunch. Made with vodka, tomato juice, and spices, a classic Bloody Mary typically has around 125 calories per 8-ounce serving. The addition of celery and other garnishes makes it a more filling option, which can help curb hunger and cravings while sipping.
Experiences with Low-Calorie Alcoholic Drinks
When I first started cutting back on my calorie intake, I never thought that I could still enjoy the occasional cocktail without sabotaging my goals. However, after experimenting with different low-calorie drinks, I quickly discovered that it’s all about making the right choices. For instance, switching from a sugary margarita to a tequila with lime was an eye-opener for me. It felt like I was still getting the same buzz, but with far fewer calories. I also became a fan of wine spritzers, especially on hot summer days. The sparkling water made the drink feel more festive, and the wine’s subtle flavor wasn’t overpowering.
Another favorite of mine became gin and tonic with light tonic water. I was always hesitant about gin, but this combination was so refreshing that I kept coming back for more. The light tonic water was a game-changer, cutting down the calories significantly while still allowing me to enjoy a classic cocktail. Tequila with lime has also become my go-to choice when I’m out with friends. It’s clean, simple, and so much healthier than the sugary margaritas I used to love.
Ultimately, choosing low-calorie alcoholic drinks doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or enjoyment. Once you start exploring these lighter options, you’ll realize how many great alternatives are out there. It’s all about being mindful of what you’re consuming while still having a good time. So go ahead, order that vodka soda or champagne spritzer, and enjoy the evening without any guilt!
Conclusion
Drinking alcohol doesn’t have to derail your healthy habits. With these 9 low-calorie options, you can enjoy your favorite cocktails without worrying about extra calories. Whether you’re sipping on a light beer or a simple vodka soda, these drinks provide a refreshing way to indulge while staying on track. Cheers to better choices and smarter drinking!
