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9 Low Calorie Alcoholic Drinks
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9 Low Calorie Alcoholic Drinks

While there are many low-calorie alcoholic beverages available, it is important to consider the effects that alcohol can have on your weight loss goals. Alcohol is a toxin that is metabolized in the liver alongside fat; when the body focuses on eliminating alcohol, the fat burning process is put on hold. So, while these low-calorie drinks may seem like a good choice, it is important to understand the potential long-term effects that alcohol can have on your weight management goals. 

 

1. Paloma

The paloma is a refreshing patio drink made with tequila, grapefruit juice and lime juice. While the most common version of this drink calls for simple syrup, ask your bartender if you can have it without the sugar. A classic Paloma with no added sugar has 103 calories and 1 gram of sugar.

2. Mimosa

This classic brunch cocktail is a great option for anyone looking for an alcoholic beverage with low calories. A mimosa consists of sparkling wine (traditionally Champagne) and orange juice. It's a simple drink that packs a punch when it comes to taste, but you'll also have no problem having one or two with your morning meal (or any meal).A typical serving size of this drink contains 137 calories and 8 grams of sugar.

3. Seltzers

Seltzers are alcoholic beverages that are made with carbonated water, fruit juice, and natural flavors. They're typically low in calories and sugar, which makes them a good option if you're looking to cut back on the calories in your cocktail. Seltzers come in a variety of flavors such as lemon-lime or grapefruit ginger, so there's sure to be one that tastes great to you! My personal favorite is White Claw. You can make your own seltzer at home, by mixing low-calorie alcohol, soda water, and fruit. 

4. Light Beer

Beer isn't the best option when it comes to low calorie alcoholic beverages. However, if you insist on drinking beer, light beer is significantly lower in calories than most beers. For example, Michelob Ultra contains only 90 calories per 12 oz bottle while Budweiser has over 200!

White wine over red

If you’re looking for a lower-calorie wine alternative, it can help to know that white wines tend to have fewer calories. While some white wines are still quite high in sugar, there are many low-calorie options out there, and even some with zero grams of sugar.

Most dessert wines such as port (14g/100ml) or fully sweet Rieslings (15g/100ml) should be avoided if you're watching what you drink. But if you go for something dry or off-dry like a brut Champagne (2g/100ml), sauvignon Blanc (1g/100ml), or pinot grigio (1g/100ml). There are also many brands now offering low-calorie "bar wine" — including Bask — at around 5% ABV but with less than 10g of sugar per 100ml glass on average; perfect for those who want to indulge without committing too much on their waistline!

6. Margaritas...with some modifications

Margaritas are usually both high in sugar and calories. If you omit the orange liquor and simple syrup you can significantly reduce sugar/calories, bringing it down to 150 calories and 3 grams of sugar. Add a splash of orange juice instead. 

7. Dry martini

A martini can mean different things to different people, but it's typically made with vermouth and gin. Vermouth is an Italian wine-based liqueur that has been flavored and sweetened with herbs, spices, and other ingredients. It provides a subtle sweetness that balances the strong taste of gin or vodka (or even brandy). This drink is best when served on the rocks in a chilled glass with a twist of lemon peel or olive (or both!).

8.Vodka Water Lime

A classic drink in my hometown of Winnipeg is a "vodka water lime." It's a simple drink with vodka, water, and lime juice. You can also switch out the water for soda or the vodka for gin. Give it a try! It tastes a lot better than it sounds.

9. Sangria....with some modifications

Sangria is typically made with juice, which means it's loaded with sugar. You can try to make your sangria more balanced by ordering a glass of wine and asking your bartender for sprite and fruit on the side. That way you can take your sangria from 215-265 calories and 16-30 grams of sugar to around 150 calories and 1 gram of sugar.

Tips for cutting calories

One way to reduce the calories in your drink is to choose a lower-calorie beverage. Instead of ordering an alcoholic drink with a higher ABV (alcohol by volume) or proof, try a mild bitter or light beer instead. The same goes for choosing vodka over rum--it's often lower in calories and carbs as well.

Watch the sugar content in your drink

If you're trying to cut calories in your alcohol, watch the sugar content. Cocktails tend to contain simple syrup and juice which is high in sugar. Instead of using these ingredients, flavour your drink with fruits, and fresh herbs and decrease the amount of juice used. Opt for low-calorie mixes such as diet Coke or soda water with a splash of juice if needed!

The Bottom Line

The reality is that alcohol consumption is not conducive to fat loss. If you're looking to cut calories in your drinks, the first step is to decrease the amount of alcohol that you consume. Try going a month without drinking any alcoholic beverages, and see the difference that makes in your overall energy and appearance.

Like any other low-nutritious food/beverage, alcohol should be enjoyed in moderation. Regardless of whether you're trying to lose fat or not!

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