Choosing alcoholic drinks doesn’t have to derail your health goals. While moderation is key, some options are lower in calories than others. Here’s a breakdown of alcoholic beverages you can enjoy without completely abandoning your diet.
The Calorie Breakdown: Which Drinks Come Out on Top?
The number of calories in alcoholic drinks varies widely, but several options stand out for their lower impact on weight loss. These include red wine, light beer, straight spirits, and champagne. Each offers a different balance between taste and caloric intake.
- Red Wine (125 calories/5oz): A glass of dry red wine is a moderate choice, with some studies suggesting potential heart health benefits.
- Light Beer (100 calories/12oz): Light beer offers around 50 fewer calories than a regular beer, making it a sensible swap for beer drinkers.
- Spirits on the Rocks (100 calories/1.5oz): Vodka, tequila, gin, or whiskey are all low-calorie when consumed straight or with sparkling water. Avoid sugary mixers.
- Champagne (85 calories/4oz): Champagne is the lightest option, with around 85 calories per glass. The carbonation may also help you feel fuller, potentially reducing overconsumption.
The Rise of Mocktails: Alcohol-Free Options
For those looking to cut calories entirely, mocktails are an excellent alternative. However, pay attention to ingredients—some mocktails are loaded with sugar. Opt for low or no-calorie mixers, such as sparkling water, to keep things light. Alternating between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks is another effective tactic for managing calorie intake.
The Bottom Line: Prioritizing Health
The most reliable way to support weight loss while maintaining health is to avoid alcohol altogether. Alcohol can lead to poor food choices and hinder weight loss efforts. If you choose to drink, selecting low-calorie options and skipping sugary mixers are the best ways to minimize caloric impact.
Drinking alcohol can easily undermine your health and weight loss goals if not managed carefully. Choose wisely, drink in moderation, and prioritize your well-being.
Editorial Sources:
Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions.
Resources:
Butts M et al. The Influence of Alcohol Consumption on Intestinal Nutrient Absorption: A Comprehensive Review. Nutrients. March 24, 2023.
Parekh N et al. Longitudinal dimensions of alcohol consumption and dietary intake in the Framingham Heart Study Offspring Cohort (1971–2008). The British Journal of Nutrition. September 9, 2020.
About Moderate Alcohol Use. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. January 14, 2025.
Is red wine actually good for your heart? Harvard Health Publishing. January 29, 2020.
Alcohol Calorie Calculator. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
Is Sparkling Water Good for You? Cleveland Clinic. February 15, 2022.
