Introduction
Drinking alcohol in moderation can be part of a healthy lifestyle. However, if you’re trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet, it’s important to choose alcoholic beverages that are low in calories and sugar. Knowing which drinks are best for your health can help you make smart choices when you’re out with friends or having a nightcap at home.
Overview of the Best Alcoholic Beverages to Drink While on a Diet
When it comes to weight loss or maintaining a healthy lifestyle, the key is to watch what you eat and drink. If you’re looking to enjoy a few drinks while still staying on track with your diet, there are some alcoholic beverages that are better choices than others. According to Eat This, Not That!, “The best alcoholic drinks for weight loss have two things in common: they’re low in calories and contain no added sugar.”
In general, the fewer calories and carbs a beverage contains, the better it is for your diet. But there are other factors to consider as well. The type of alcohol you choose, as well as any mixers you add to your drink, can affect how many calories and carbs you consume. Read on for a guide to selecting the best alcoholic drinks for weight loss.
Guide to Choosing Low-Calorie Alcoholic Drinks
Low-Carb vs. Low-Calorie Alcoholic Beverages
When choosing alcoholic beverages, it’s important to understand the difference between low-carb and low-calorie drinks. Low-carb drinks contain fewer carbohydrates than regular drinks, but they may not necessarily be lower in calories. On the other hand, low-calorie drinks contain fewer calories than regular drinks, but they may not necessarily be lower in carbs.
For example, light beer is often marketed as a low-carb option. However, it typically contains the same amount of calories as regular beer. Similarly, vodka is usually considered a low-carb option, even though it’s higher in calories than other types of alcohol.
Best Alcohols for Weight Loss: What to Consider When Choosing Your Drink
When selecting an alcoholic beverage, look for drinks that are low in calories and carbs, as well as those that don’t contain added sugar. Some of the best alcoholic drinks for weight loss include dry wines, light beers, and hard liquors such as gin, vodka, and whiskey. Avoid sweet wines, flavored beers, and sugary cocktails, as these tend to be higher in calories and sugar.
Additionally, consider the type of mixers you use. Many cocktails contain high-calorie mixers such as soda, juice, and syrups. To keep your calorie and carb count low, opt for low-calorie mixers such as club soda, seltzer water, and diet sodas.
Types of Alcohol With the Least Amount of Calories
Beer
Light beers are generally lower in calories and carbs than regular beers. According to the Healthline, light beers typically contain fewer than 100 calories and 5 grams of carbs per 12-ounce serving. For reference, a regular beer typically contains around 150 calories and 13 grams of carbs.
Wine
Dry wines are usually lower in calories and carbs than sweet wines. A 5-ounce glass of dry white wine typically contains fewer than 120 calories and 4 grams of carbs. In comparison, a 5-ounce glass of sweet white wine contains about 160 calories and 15 grams of carbs.
Hard Liquor
Hard liquors such as gin, vodka, and whiskey contain fewer calories and carbs than other types of alcohol. A 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof vodka contains about 96 calories and 0 carbs, while a 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof whiskey contains about 105 calories and 0 carbs.
Tips for Making Healthier Cocktails While on a Diet
Use Low-Calorie Mixers
When making cocktails, opt for low-calorie mixers such as club soda, seltzer water, and diet sodas. These mixers are usually free of added sugar and contain fewer calories than regular mixers.
Avoid Sugary Mixers
It’s best to avoid sugary mixers such as soda, juice, and syrups. These mixers tend to be high in calories and sugar, which can quickly add up when making cocktails.
Choose Low-Alcohol Drinks
If you’re looking to reduce your calorie and carb intake, opt for low-alcohol drinks. Low-alcohol drinks typically contain fewer calories and carbs than regular cocktails.
Conclusion
Drinking alcohol in moderation can be part of a healthy lifestyle. When selecting an alcoholic beverage, choose one that is low in calories and carbs, and avoid sugary mixers. Dry wines, light beers, and hard liquors such as gin, vodka, and whiskey are all good options. By making smart choices, you can enjoy a few drinks without sabotaging your diet.
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