Drinking alcohol is a great way to unwind and have fun, but it is important to know how many calories you are consuming. Some alcoholic drinks are packed with calories, which can quickly add up and contribute to weight gain.
The calorie count in alcoholic beverages varies based on factors like the alcohol content, serving size, and mixers used. To help you make informed choices, we have put together a list of eight favorite alcoholic drinks and their calorie counts.
1. Beer
Beer is a popular alcoholic drink enjoyed worldwide. However, it is important to be mindful of the calories in beer, as they can quickly add up. On average, a 12-ounce serving of beer contains around 150 calories.
However, this can vary depending on the brand and type of beer, with some varieties containing as many as 300 calories per serving.
2. Wine
Wine is another beloved alcoholic beverage, with several varieties to choose from. A 5-ounce glass of red wine typically contains around 125 calories, while a white wine has approximately 120 calories.
However, the calorie count can be higher for sweeter wines like Shiraz and Riesling.
3. Whiskey
Whiskey is a popular hard drink consumed straight or mixed in cocktails. A 1.5-ounce serving of whiskey contains around 105 calories. However, mixing it with sugary sodas or juices can significantly increase the calorie count of the drink.
4. Vodka
Vodka is known to be a relatively low-calorie alcoholic drink. A 1.5-ounce serving of vodka contains approximately 97 calories. This makes it a preferred choice for many people trying to watch their calorie intake.
5. Gin
Gin is another popular hard drink that can be consumed straight or used in cocktails. A 1.5-ounce serving of gin contains around 110 calories. When preparing cocktails, it is important to remember to use low-calorie mixers to avoid excess calorie intake.
6. Rum
Rum is a popular drink made from fermented sugarcane juice or molasses. A 1.5-ounce serving of rum contains approximately 97 calories.
However, like other hard drinks, the calorie count can increase significantly when mixed with sugary mixers like cola or fruit juices.
7. Margarita
Margarita is a popular tequila-based cocktail enjoyed by many. However, with its sweet and sour mix and salt-rimmed glass, it packs a substantial calorie count. On average, a typical 8-ounce Margarita contains around 450 calories.
This is equivalent to eating a cheeseburger or a small slice of pizza.
8. Pina Colada
Pina Colada is a sweet and creamy cocktail made from coconut cream, pineapple juice, and rum. While it may be delicious, it is also high in calories. A standard 8-ounce serving contains around 500 calories.
That is equivalent to eating two slices of pepperoni pizza.
In conclusion, it is vital to be mindful of the calorie count in your favorite alcoholic beverages. Knowing the number of calories in your drink can help you make informed choices that align with your weight management goals.
To ensure you stick to your calorie goals, try to go for low-calorie options, like vodka or gin, and avoid sugary mixers as much as possible.
