Although we all may be on a new journey of a healthier lifestyle we my still want to enjoy an adult beverage or two every now and then. This is not a bad thing, and just like everything else the key is moderation and finding those healthier choices to fulfill your craving. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, drinking in moderation is defined as having “up to 1 drink per day for women and up to 2 drinks per day for men.” From what we know our bodies treat alcohol as a toxin. Your body can only process so much, so quickly. So, although these drinks may be healthier options, it does not mean you should consume more. Clearly the motto the fewer the drinks, the fewer the calories, So, if you need to wind down from a hectic day, or are ready for a night out with some friends and want to enjoy a cocktail here are some tips and suggestions.
We begin with a few “healthier” options when going out for a drink:
- Vodka Soda- This is exactly what it’s called, no hidden ingredients. Although it’s not as fun as say a pina colada it has much less calories.
- Manhattan- a bit more fun and tasty coming in at around 100-145 calories.
- Sangria- Ingredients can include red win, lemon, lime, orange juice and more. Although this isn’t always a low calorie drink there are many benefits. If you can find ( there’s tons of sangria recipes out there) a sangria recipe with more fruit and less sugar then it is a great way to get your fruit in, quench your thirst and enjoy an adult beverage!
First, your best low calorie friend will be wine. With only 20 calories per ounce, no cholesterol, and no sodium or fat this is always a top contender. If you are in to a sweeter wine Sherry a sweeter wine will be 32 calories per ounce, still not terrible! J
Now, if you’re indulging over the weekend you can still have fun and not feel guilty. Hard liquors are a bit more in calories but here are some fun suggestions: Use diet soda and tonic water for a mixer and try and stay away from Gin since it does have 119 calories per ounce.
|
Hard Liquor |
Calories |
Carbs |
Per 1.5-oz Serving |
|
Vermouth |
32 |
0.2 g |
64 calories, 0.4 g carbs |
|
Coconut Rum |
51 |
5.3 g |
77 calories, 8 g carbs |
|
Beefeater® Gin |
65 |
0 g |
98 calories, 0 g carbs |
|
Rye Whiskey |
69 |
0 g |
104 calories, 0 g carbs |
|
Scotch Whiskey |
69 |
0 g |
104 calories, 0 g carbs |
|
White Rum |
69 |
0 g |
104 calories, 0 g carbs |
|
Vodka |
69 |
0 g |
104 calories, 0 g carbs |
|
Cognac |
69 |
2 g |
104 calories, 3 g carbs |
|
Tequila |
69 |
5.3 g |
104 calories, 8 g carbs |
|
Gilbey’s® Gin |
79 |
0 g |
119 calories, 0 g carbs |
|
Wine |
Calories |
Carbs |
Per 5-oz Serving |
|
Chardonnay |
20 |
0.4 g |
100 calories, 2 g carbs |
|
Pinot Grigio |
20 |
0.4 g |
100 calories, 2 g carbs |
|
Zinfandel® White Wine |
20 |
0.4 g |
100 calories, 2 g carbs |
|
Cabernet Sauvignon |
20 |
0.8 g |
100 calories, 4 g carbs |
|
Merlot Red Wine |
20 |
0.8 g |
100 calories, 4 g carbs |
Now, for the beer lovers don’t fret there are some choices for you as well. Beer is higher in calories but with choices such as “light” beer with 108 calories per 12 oz and 6 carbs still not a terrible choice. I am personally not a huge fan of beer, but if you are here are some alternatives.
|
Beer |
Calories |
Carbs |
Per 12-oz Serving |
|
“Light” Beer |
9 |
0.5 g |
108 calories, 6 g carbs |
|
Draft Beer |
12 |
1.1 g |
144 calories, 13.2 g carbs |
|
Lager |
14 |
1.1 g |
168 calories, 13.2 g carbs |
|
Ale |
18 |
1.1 g |
216 calories, 13.2 g carbs |
Lastly, you can still enjoy the taste of a Margartia drink without the added alcohol and calories! It the Crystal Light Margarita Mix! And BONUS you can even enjoy appletini, and mojito flavors! So plan a girls night with crystal light, reality tv, and low calorie recipes! =)
So, remember moderation, eat healthy small meals before you go out drinking, try and drink non-alcoholic drinks in between your alcoholic drink perhaps even water, enjoy and have fun! J
Say motivated, drink water, exercise when you can and live positively! Thank you all for reading my blogs, and don’t be afraid to like, and share my blog! J If you ever have any comments or suggestions just leave them and I’ll read them!
Alicia Johana 