Top 10 Low Calorie Alcoholic Drinks You Need to Try

Image Credit: Shutter Stock

Enjoying a night out or relaxing at home with a drink doesn’t have to derail your health goals. Low calorie alcoholic drinks offer a way to indulge without the guilt, allowing people to savor their favorite spirits while keeping an eye on their calorie intake. These lighter options have gained popularity among health-conscious consumers who want to balance their social lives with their wellness routines.

This article explores the top 10 low calorie alcoholic drinks you need to try. From classic choices like vodka soda and light beer to more creative concoctions such as white wine spritzers and tequila with lime, there’s something for every palate. We’ll also look at options for those who prefer canned drinks, fruity flavors, or refreshing summer sips. Whether you’re at a bar, hosting a party, or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these drinks provide tasty alternatives to high-calorie cocktails.

Vodka Soda

The vodka soda stands as a quintessential low-calorie alcoholic drink, offering a refreshing and light option for those mindful of their calorie intake. This classic cocktail combines the clean taste of vodka with the effervescence of soda water, creating a simple yet satisfying beverage.

Vodka Soda Ingredients

To make a vodka soda, one needs only a few key components:

1. Vodka: A high-quality vodka forms the base of this drink. Popular choices include Tito’s, Reyka, or Texas Wildflower Vodka.
2. Club soda or sparkling water: Brands like Fever-Tree, Topo Chico, or Perrier are commonly used.
3. Fresh lime: A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a zesty touch.
4. Ice: Plenty of ice keeps the drink cold and crisp.

The typical ratio is 1 part vodka to 3 or 4 parts soda water. For a single serving, this translates to 1.5 to 2 ounces of vodka and 4 to 6 ounces of club soda.

Vodka Soda Calories

One of the main attractions of the vodka soda is its low calorie content. A standard vodka soda contains approximately 97 calories, making it one of the lowest calorie mixed drinks available. This calorie count is comparable to a rum and diet coke, and only slightly higher than a 4 oz glass of champagne (90 calories).

Vodka Soda Variations

While the basic vodka soda is a go-to for many, there are numerous ways to add variety to this drink:

1. Citrus twist: Add a splash of grapefruit, lemon, or orange juice for extra flavor.
2. Herbal infusion: Muddle mint or basil in the glass before adding the other ingredients.
3. Fruity mix: Use flavored vodka, such as blueberry, for a fruit-forward taste.
4. Coconut yuzu: Mix with sparkling coconut water with yuzu for a tropical twist.
5. Pink grapefruit: Use Fever Tree Sparkling Pink Grapefruit as the mixer for a citrusy kick.

Also Visit: Top 35 Low Calorie Snacks That Are Surprisingly Delicious

Light Beer

Light beer has become a popular choice for those looking to enjoy a refreshing beverage while keeping an eye on their calorie intake. These brews have gained significant traction in the United States, accounting for nearly 50 percent of beer consumption. The term “light beer” can refer to various factors, including lower alcohol content, fewer carbs, reduced calories, or a milder taste.

Light Beer Brands

Several well-known brands dominate the light beer market, each offering its own unique take on this low-calorie option. Some of the most popular light beer brands include:

1. Bud Light
2. Coors Light
3. Miller Lite
4. Michelob Ultra
5. Corona Light
6. Natural Light
7. Busch Light

These brands have become household names, with many beer drinkers developing loyalty to their preferred light beer.

Light Beer Calories

One of the main attractions of light beer is its lower calorie content compared to regular beer. On average, a 12-ounce serving of light beer contains about 100-120 calories, while regular beer typically ranges from 150-180 calories per serving. This reduction in calories is achieved through various brewing methods, such as lowering fermentable sugars or diluting regular beer with water.

Here’s a comparison of calorie counts for some popular light beers (per 12-ounce serving):

• Michelob Ultra: 95 calories
• Natural Light: 95 calories
• Miller Lite: 96 calories
• Corona Light: 99 calories
• Coors Light: 102 calories
• Bud Light: 110 calories

Light Beer Taste

Light beers are known for their mild flavor profile, which can be attributed to the use of fewer malted barley and hops in the brewing process. They tend to be lagers, which have a brighter and milder taste compared to traditional ales. Light beers are usually served very cold, which can further dull the flavor.

While some beer enthusiasts may find light beers lacking in taste compared to their full-bodied counterparts, many drinkers appreciate their crisp, clean, and refreshing qualities. The taste of light beers can vary slightly between brands, with some offering more distinct flavors than others. For example, in a blind taste test, Pabst Blue Ribbon (PBR) was correctly identified by 3 out of 7 drinkers, suggesting it may have a more recognizable taste profile among light beers.

Also Visit: Peppermint Tea: From Health Benefits to Side Effects

White Wine Spritzer

A white wine spritzer is a refreshing and light alcoholic beverage that combines white wine with sparkling water or club soda. This simple yet elegant drink has gained popularity among those seeking a lower-calorie alternative to traditional cocktails.

White Wine Spritzer Recipe

To make a classic white wine spritzer, follow these easy steps:

1. Fill a tall wine glass with ice.
2. Pour 3/4 cup of chilled white wine into the glass.
3. Top with 1/4 cup of cold club soda or sparkling water.
4. Garnish with a twist of lemon rind for added flavor and aroma.

For a more flavorful variation, add a few drops of lime juice or muddle some mint leaves before adding the wine. Some popular white wine options for spritzers include Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or any dry white wine of your choice.

White Wine Spritzer Calories

One of the main attractions of a white wine spritzer is its lower calorie content compared to other alcoholic beverages. On average, a standard white wine spritzer contains approximately 73-90 calories per serving, depending on the specific ingredients used.

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content for a typical white wine spritzer:

• Calories: 73-90
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 6mg

White Wine Spritzer Benefits

White wine spritzers offer several benefits for those looking to enjoy a refreshing alcoholic beverage while maintaining a health-conscious lifestyle:

1. Lower alcohol content: By diluting wine with sparkling water, the overall alcohol content is reduced, making it easier to drink responsibly.
2. Hydration: The addition of sparkling water helps increase hydration compared to drinking wine alone.
3. Fewer calories: With fewer calories than a full glass of wine, spritzers can be a good choice for those watching their calorie intake.
4. Refreshing taste: The combination of wine and bubbles creates a light, crisp flavor perfect for warm weather or social gatherings.
5. Versatility: White wine spritzers can be easily customized with different fruits, herbs, or wine varieties to suit individual preferences.

Also Visit: How to Lose 10 Pounds in a Month: A Complete Guide

Gin and Diet Tonic

Gin and diet tonic has become a popular choice for those seeking a low-calorie alcoholic beverage without compromising on taste. This classic cocktail combines the botanical flavors of gin with the crisp, bitter notes of tonic water, resulting in a refreshing drink that’s perfect for various occasions.

Gin and Diet Tonic Ingredients

To prepare a gin and diet tonic, one needs:

1. A high-quality gin (preferably Hendrick’s or Tanqueray)
2. Diet tonic water
3. Ice
4. A lime wedge for garnish (optional)

The key to a great gin and tonic lies in the quality of its ingredients. While regular tonic water contains sugar or high fructose corn syrup, diet tonic water uses artificial sweeteners like aspartame, resulting in zero calories.

Gin and Diet Tonic Calories

One of the main attractions of gin and diet tonic is its low calorie content. A standard gin and diet tonic contains approximately 97 calories, which come solely from the gin. This makes it an excellent choice for those watching their calorie intake or following a low-carb diet.

To break it down:

• A 1.5-ounce (42 grams) shot of gin contains 97 calories
• Diet tonic water adds 0 calories

Compared to other alcoholic beverages, gin and diet tonic is a relatively low-calorie option. For instance, it has fewer calories than a glass of red wine and significantly less than cocktails made with sugary mixers.

Gin and Diet Tonic Flavor Profile

The flavor profile of a gin and diet tonic is complex and balanced. It offers a combination of:

• Crisp, botanical notes from the gin
• A slightly bitter taste from the quinine in the tonic water
• A subtle sweetness from the artificial sweeteners in the diet tonic

The drink provides a refreshing experience with a balance between the alcohol “bite,” the botanical flavors of the gin, and the bitterness of the tonic. The absence of sugar in diet tonic allows the gin’s unique characteristics to shine through, making it an excellent choice for gin enthusiasts who want to appreciate the spirit’s nuanced flavors.

Also Visit: Best Vitamin C Serum: Benefits and Top Brands Reviewed

Tequila with Lime

Tequila with lime is a classic and refreshing low-calorie alcoholic beverage that combines the bold flavors of Mexico’s pride and joy with the tangy zest of fresh lime. This simple yet satisfying drink has gained popularity among health-conscious individuals looking for a lighter alternative to sugary cocktails.

Tequila with Lime Recipe

To prepare this straightforward drink:

1. Fill a glass with ice
2. Pour 1.5 ounces (42 mL) of high-quality tequila over the ice
3. Squeeze a fresh lime wedge into the glass
4. Garnish with an additional lime wedge (optional)

For those who prefer a longer drink, adding club soda or sparkling water can create a refreshing tequila and soda with lime. Some variations include adding a splash of grapefruit juice or coconut water for additional flavor.

Tequila with Lime Calories

One of the main attractions of tequila with lime is its low calorie content. A standard serving of tequila with lime contains approximately 99 calories, making it an excellent choice for those watching their calorie intake. The calorie breakdown is as follows:

• 1.5 ounces (42 mL) of tequila: 97 calories
• Lime juice: 2 calories

This low-calorie count makes tequila with lime a popular choice among those following a balanced diet or looking for a lighter alcoholic beverage option.

Tequila with Lime Health Benefits

While it’s important to note that alcohol should be consumed in moderation, tequila with lime may offer some potential health benefits:

1. Lower sugar content: Unlike many cocktails, tequila with lime contains no added sugars, making it a better choice for those monitoring their sugar intake.
2. Potential digestive aid: Some studies suggest that tequila may help stimulate digestion when consumed in moderation.
3. Probiotic properties: Tequila contains fructans from the blue agave plant, which may have probiotic effects beneficial for gut health.
4. Potential blood sugar management: Research indicates that agavins, natural sugars in agave, may help lower glucose levels and increase insulin production, potentially benefiting those with type 2 diabetes.

It’s crucial to remember that these potential benefits are associated with moderate consumption, and excessive alcohol intake can lead to numerous health problems. Always drink responsibly and consult with a healthcare professional regarding alcohol consumption and its effects on your health.

Also Visit: Nipple Orgasms: How to Experience Intense Sensations

Conclusion

Low-calorie alcoholic drinks offer a way to enjoy social occasions without derailing health goals. From the classic vodka soda to the refreshing white wine spritzer, these options provide tasty alternatives to high-calorie cocktails. They allow people to savor their favorite spirits while keeping an eye on their calorie intake, striking a balance between indulgence and wellness.

Whether you’re at a bar, hosting a party, or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these drinks cater to various preferences. The range of options, including light beers and simple tequila with lime, ensures there’s something for every palate. By choosing these lighter alternatives, health-conscious consumers can maintain their social lives without compromising their wellness routines, making it easier to stick to their health goals while still enjoying a night out or a relaxing drink at home.

FAQs

1. What alcoholic beverages are recommended for weight loss?
If you’re aiming to maintain or lose weight, consider choosing spirits like vodka, gin, rye whiskey, scotch, bourbon, tequila, and brandy. These options are generally lower in calories and are preferable for those watching their weight.

2. Can you suggest some low-calorie alcoholic beverages?
Certainly! Here are some alcoholic drinks that are lower in calories:

• Vodka soda
• Gin and diet tonic
• Dry martini
• White wine spritzer
• Champagne
• Mojito
• Light beer
• Rum and diet coke

3. Which alcoholic drinks are least likely to cause weight gain?
Alcoholic beverages like tequila, vodka, gin, and whiskey are less likely to contribute to weight gain as they generally contain only 60-70 calories per drink. On the other hand, beer and wine typically range from 100-170 calories per serving and might not be the best choice if you’re trying to minimize calorie intake.

4. What are the healthiest options for alcoholic drinks?
According to nutrition experts, some of the healthiest alcoholic options include:

• Red wine, which is beneficial due to the antioxidants found in the skins and seeds of grapes
• Mulled wine
• White wine
• Wine spritzers
• Champagne
• Buck’s fizz
• Craft cider
• Craft beer
  These choices can offer some health benefits when consumed in moderation.