Low-Calorie Alcohol: What's The Best Option?

what is the alcohol with the least amount of calories

Alcoholic drinks are often loaded with calories and added sugar, which can contribute to health problems and weight gain in the long term. However, there are many low-calorie alcoholic options to choose from, such as hard seltzers, light beers, vodka, tequila, and gin. These drinks typically have around 60 to 70 calories per 1-ounce shot or 12-ounce serving. Additionally, you can reduce the calorie content of your favourite drinks by choosing low-calorie mixers, such as soda, diet coke, or tonic water, and avoiding high-calorie ingredients like sugar and juice. So, whether you're counting calories or just wanting to indulge without the guilt, there are plenty of low-calorie alcoholic beverages to choose from.

cyalcohol

Vodka with soda, lime or water

Vodka is the spirit with the lowest number of calories, and it is often paired with zero-calorie sodas or drinks. One serving of vodka with soda and lime contains 117 calories. This drink is a popular choice among those watching their calorie intake as it is refreshing and has a low-calorie count for the amount of alcohol it contains.

When it comes to mixers, soda water is a good option as it is sugar-free and calorie-free. Tonic water, on the other hand, should be avoided as it contains added sugar and therefore has more calories. If you're looking for some extra flavour, you can add a splash of lime or lemon juice, which is also low in calories.

Vodka with water is another option for a low-calorie drink. Adding a lime wedge can enhance the flavour, and the water will keep you hydrated.

If you're looking for a drink with a similar profile to vodka soda with lime, you could try a tequila with lime, or a paloma, which is made with tequila, lime juice, and grapefruit juice or soda. These drinks are also low in calories and easy to make.

It's important to remember that while these drinks are low in calories, alcohol itself is calorie-dense, with seven calories per gram. It's also metabolised by the body ahead of burning fat, so it's not ideal if you're on a weight-loss diet. Enjoy these drinks in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

cyalcohol

Tequila with lime or soda

When it comes to alcoholic drinks with the least amount of calories, it's important to consider both the type of alcohol and the mixers used. Straight spirits like vodka and tequila are low-calorie options, but the calories can add up when mixed with sugary drinks.

A Tequila Soda contains just 128 calories, with the soda water contributing zero calories. This is in stark contrast to a margarita, which is often packed with sugar, carbs, and calories. When making a Tequila Soda, it's important to avoid tonic water, as it contains added sugar, and opt for club soda, seltzer, or sparkling water instead. You can also get creative with garnishes, adding a lime wedge, grapefruit, or even a few jalapeño slices for a spicier kick, all without significantly increasing the calorie count.

For those who prefer their tequila straight, a shot of tequila with a lime wedge on the side is another low-calorie option. This combination allows you to savour the flavour of the tequila while enjoying the citrusy burst of lime. Alternatively, you can opt for pre-made tequila soda canned drinks, which offer convenience and a just-mixed taste without the need for a bartender.

When trying to reduce calorie intake, it's important to remember that moderation is key. While low-calorie alcoholic options are available, excessive consumption of any alcoholic beverage can still contribute to weight gain and health issues. Enjoying alcohol in moderation as part of a balanced and well-rounded diet is crucial, and making simple swaps like choosing soda or lime over sugary mixers can go a long way in supporting your health and fitness goals.

cyalcohol

Rum with diet coke

When it comes to alcoholic drinks with the least amount of calories, it's important to consider both the type of alcohol and the mixers used. Clear liquors like vodka, gin, and white rum are often recommended as low-calorie options. When paired with zero-calorie mixers, these drinks can be a good choice for those mindful of their calorie intake.

To further reduce calories, you can adjust the ratio of rum to diet coke, using more ice or adding sparkling water to dilute the drink. Additionally, opting for diet coke or other zero-calorie mixers like soda water, tonic water, or unsweetened cranberry juice can be a good alternative.

It's worth noting that while these substitutions can help lower the calorie count, alcohol itself contributes a significant amount of calories. As such, consuming alcohol in moderation is important, regardless of the mixers used. Additionally, pairing your drink with a healthy snack, such as almonds or low-carb crackers with salmon, can help curb cravings and support your overall calorie goals.

In summary, rum with diet coke can be a relatively low-calorie option when compared to other alcoholic drinks. However, the overall calorie content can vary depending on the specific brand of rum, the amount used, and any additional ingredients added to the drink. Enjoying this drink as part of a balanced diet and in moderation can be a good way to include alcohol in your lifestyle while managing your calorie intake.

cyalcohol

Light beer

When it comes to alcoholic drinks with the least amount of calories, it's important to consider both the type of alcohol and the mixers used. Clear liquors, such as vodka, tequila, and gin, tend to be lower in calories compared to other spirits. Pairing these with low-calorie mixers like soda water, lime, or diet coke can further reduce the calorie count.

Now, let's talk about light beer specifically. Light beer typically has fewer calories and a lower alcohol content compared to regular beer. The exact number of calories can vary depending on the brand, but on average, a 12-ounce (360-mL) can of light beer contain around 80-100 calories. For example, Bud Light contains 110 calories, while Budweiser Select 55 has only 55 calories. Other options include Miller 64 with 64 calories, Coors Light with 102 calories, and Michelob Ultra with 95 calories.

Additionally, it's worth mentioning that the effects of alcohol on weight gain go beyond just the calorie count. Alcohol can disrupt hormones that regulate hunger and fullness, leading to increased appetite and cravings for high-calorie foods. It can also decrease inhibitions, making it easier to overeat or make less healthy food choices. Therefore, it's important to be mindful not only of the calories in your drink but also of how it may impact your overall dietary choices.

In conclusion, light beer is a lower-calorie option within the beer category and can be a good choice for those looking to cut down on calories without giving up beer completely. However, it's important to consume it in moderation and be aware of its potential impact on overall dietary habits and health.

cyalcohol

Hard seltzer

However, dietitians advise that hard seltzer should be consumed in moderation. While it is low in calories, it does not provide a sense of fullness like beer, making it easy to consume too many. Additionally, the alcohol content can affect your judgment and health if consumed in excess.

To further reduce calories, individuals can mix vodka with plain seltzer, zero-calorie sodas, or unsweetened cranberry juice. Tequila with lime is also a low-calorie option, and vodka with water and a lime wedge is a hydrating choice.

Frequently asked questions

Vodka is the spirit with the least amount of calories, with tequila a close second. Clear liquors like these tend to have around 60-70 calories per 1 oz shot. Gin is also a good low-calorie option.

It's best to avoid tonic water as it contains added sugar and therefore more calories. Instead, opt for low-calorie or unsweetened mixers like soda water, tonic, or diet coke. You can also use natural sources of sugar like citrus or fruit to sweeten your drinks.

Yes, hard seltzer is a refreshing, low-calorie alternative to cocktails, beers, and mixed drinks. White wine spritzers are another good option, as they contain about 75 calories for a 5-ounce drink.

Written by
Reviewed by

Explore related products

Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment