We often get asked the question, “What should I do about drinking when I’m on a diet?” This is a common diet conundrum, in which you’re exercising hard and cutting calories to get in shape, but you also enjoy an active social life, which includes cocktails with friends. With some libations coming in at nearly 500 calories per drink, happy hour could easily derail a week’s worth of hard work if you’re not careful. Not to fear, just knowing what’s in your favorite drink will help you avoid derailing your diet and become a thinner social sipper!
The reason many cocktails are so calorie dense is because one ounce of 80-proof alcohol contains approx 90 calories, add that’s before adding sugar-laden mixers and filling it in a glass three-times the amount of a normal portion-size. A Pina Colada, for example, can have as many calories as a Big Mac! There’s good news too though, studies show that those who drink regularly in modest amounts actually have lower levels of abdominal fat than those who sporadically binge drink. So a glass of wine per day is going to be better for you than becoming a weekend wino. While abstinence from alcohol may ultimately solve the problem, let’s face it – you’ve got to have fun and enjoy a diet that includes occational martini madness. So, for a more realistic plan, following is a list of lower-calorie beverages to ensure you don’t party your way into a larger pant size!
White Wine Spritzer: This light libation has gained popularity recently because it’s easy to order at most bars, goes down easy, and comes in at a mere 100 calories per serving. “Spritzer” means you’re diluting your wine with club soda or sparkling water. Dry white wines work best and contain fewer calories. (Red wine works well too, add a few pieces of fruit and you have mock-sangria!)
Champagne: Sipping dry champagne is a fantastic option (and it feels fabulous too!). A glass of champagne has about 90 calories, so you can have twice the bubbly for what you would normally ingest in a single cocktail! Newer “light” versions have recently hit the market touting merely 60 calories per serving (no wonder it’s the supermodels drink of choice).
Gin & Tonic or Vodka & Tonic: A typical restaurant serving of Gin or Vodka Tonic contains about 170 calories, which is lighter than most without the sugary fruit juice added, but if you really want to lighten-it-up, try a Gin Soda or Vodka Soda. Soda water contains zero calories but gives you the same “spritz” effect. Add a generous squeeze of fresh lime or a splash of fruit juice for added flavor.
Bloody Mary: This classic cocktail has about 150 calories and 10 grams of sugar, making it a great option. The tomato juice is filling too, so it’s hard to overdue it.
Flavored Vodka and Club Soda: A good twist on many of the classic favorites is to use flavored vodka with soda water in place of sugary sodas and fruit juice. Just be sure to stay away from brands that add sugar or use sugar substitutes. For instance, if you like a vodka cranberry, try cranberry or raspberry flavored vodka with soda and a splash of lime, if a screwdriver is your pleasure, try an orange-flavored vodka with soda water and a splash of OJ. This will cut calories tremendously.
Fresh Fruit “Margarita”: With some restaurant margaritas totaling a whopping 500 calories, the best thing to do is make your own. This recipe is easy and is sure to please any ‘rita-lover (and who isn’t!). Blend a handful of fresh or frozen berries, one shot tequila and half shot triple sec with crushed ice. Add a shot of lime juice and shake. Pour into a glass over ice. Approx 140 calories per glass.
Martini: Before you run out, rent Sex in the City, and rejoice with a Cosmo, this drink doesn’t make our list under the guise it’s typically found on many restaurant menus, “Chocotini,” Raztini” or “Pomtini” to name a few, rather, the classic version of this drink is a great low-cal option. At about 170 calories, this potent infusion of liquor and vermouth is naturally lower in calories without any added sugar.
Beer: Beer gets a bad rap due to common phrases like “beer belly,” however; beer is a good alternative to many alcoholic beverages if you drink it in moderation. Many companies offer light options, with most fewer than 100 calories, and some as low as 64 calories per serving! If you’re like us and you enjoy a more full-bodied beer, you can still take pleasure in a good brew without having to adjust your waistband, for instance Guinness only has 125 calories per 12 ounce serving! Other popular brands such as Pabst Blue Ribbon have less than 160 calories. Just stay away from Sierra Nevada with a gut busting 200 calories per serving.
And of course the most popular rule of thumb when drinking…everything in moderation! Cheers to your good health!