Many people who are conscious of their caloric intake may question whether or not they can enjoy an alcoholic beverage without negatively affecting their healthy eating habits. Experts suggest that it is okay to indulge in moderation, as overly restrictive diets can lead to binge-eating or giving up altogether. Alcohol, like other indulgent foods, can provide emotional satisfaction and pleasure in life. However, not all cocktails are created equal in terms of calories. Most alcoholic beverages have around 100 calories per serving, with mixers often being the culprit for increased calorie content.
Mixers like simple syrup, coconut crème, juice, and margarita mixes can add extra calories to alcoholic drinks, potentially doubling or tripling the calorie content. Choosing lower-calorie mixers like diet soda or zero-calorie soda can help keep the overall calorie count down. For example, a martini may seem low in calories due to fewer mixers, but each serving of alcohol in a cocktail adds calories to the drink. Sparkling wines like Prosecco or champagne are a good option for those looking to enjoy a drink with fewer calories, as they typically have around 100 calories per serving and the fizz can help increase satisfaction.
Light beer and hard seltzers are also lower in calories, with both typically containing around 100 calories per serving. Light beers have a lower alcohol content than regular beers, making them a good choice for light drinkers. Hard seltzers are usually sugar-free and can be a suitable option for those watching their sugar intake. Spritzes, such as Aperol spritzes or Hugo spritzes, are another low-calorie choice, featuring smaller portions of alcohol topped up with soda water for a fizzy feel. Mojitos without added sugar and Bloody Mary’s with low-calorie tomato juice are also good options for lower-calorie cocktails.
Creating cocktails with liquor and seltzer or soda water, flavored with herbs, citrus, and fruits, can be a creative way to enjoy a drink with fewer calories. Fresh ginger can add flavor without extra calories, and bitters in various flavors can enhance the taste of a cocktail without adding sugar. Experimenting with different ingredients and combinations can result in enjoyable, low-calorie drinks. Overall, the key to indulging in alcohol while watching calories is to be mindful of mixers and ingredients that can increase calorie content and to enjoy drinks in moderation.
