Summer is a season of relaxation, fun, and celebration! It’s a time for barbecues, poolside parties, and beach weekends. You may feel the urge to ditch your healthy diet and indulge in some tasty cocktails with friends and family.

But, have you ever thought about the nutritional value and calorie count of those refreshing summer drinks?.

It’s essential to balance your intake of alcoholic beverages, especially in the summer. You want to stay hydrated and have a good time without compromising your health.

Therefore, it’s essential to count your calories and keep an eye on what you’re drinking.

The Calories in a Margarita

The classic margarita is one of the most popular summer cocktails worldwide and the perfect thirst-quencher for hot summer days. However, one regular-size margarita can contain between 200-400 calories.

But what if you swap the classic margarita for its light version? A skinny margarita made with 100% agave tequila, fresh lime juice, and a sugar-free sweetener is a better choice.

It contains only 100-150 calories, depending on the size of the drink and additional mix-ins, such as triple sec or orange liqueur.

The Calories in a Piña Colada

The piña colada, a tropical mix of rum, pineapple juice, and coconut cream, is another favorite summer cocktail. However, it’s also one of the most caloric drinks on the menu, clocking in at around 350-500 calories for one piña colada.

If you still want to enjoy the taste of this beachy drink without the high calorie count, try a virgin piña colada. It’s made with coconut milk, pineapple juice, and ice, and it won’t pack as many calories as its boozy version.

You can also swap the cream of coconut for a lighter coconut water or skimmed milk, which contain fewer calories and fat.

The Calories in a Daiquiri

The daiquiri is a sweet and sour cocktail made with rum, lime juice, and sugar or simple syrup. It’s a classic summer drink that can contain up to 300-400 calories, depending on the additional flavors and mix-ins.

If you’re counting calories, you can opt for a classic daiquiri made without sugar or with a sugar-free sweetener. Another alternative is to make a fruity daiquiri with fresh fruits, such as strawberries, raspberries, or mango.

These contain natural sweeteners and a boost of vitamins and minerals, making them a healthier and more refreshing choice.

The Calories in a Beer

Although beer is not a cocktail, it’s often a staple at summer parties and barbecues. Beer is a great drink to quench your thirst and socialize with your friends while enjoying the summer weather.

However, beer can also be caloric, especially if you consume multiple glasses in one sitting. A regular beer can contain around 150-200 calories, while a light beer can contain 100-150 calories.

If you drink beer regularly, you should consider swapping it for a lighter version or limiting your consumption to one or two glasses per occasion.

The Calories in a Mojito

The mojito is a refreshing cocktail made with rum, fresh mint, lime juice, sugar or simple syrup, and soda water. It’s a popular summer drink that can contain between 180-250 calories per serving.

If you want to enjoy the fresh taste of a mojito without the high calorie count, you can make a skinny version. A skinny mojito is made with rum, fresh mint, lime juice, and a sugar-free sweetener or some muddled berries.

You can also swap the soda water for sparkling water or club soda, which will add some fizz and hydration without the extra calories.

The Calories in a Sangria

Sangria is a fruity and refreshing drink made with red or white wine, chopped fruits, and some additional flavorings, such as brandy or orange juice. Sangria can vary in calorie count, depending on the amount of added sugar, juice, or other syrups.

A glass of homemade sangria can contain around 150-250 calories, depending on the ingredients and serving size. Therefore, if you’re watching your calorie intake, it’s best to limit yourself to one glass of this delicious drink and savor every sip.

The Calories in a Gin and Tonic

Gin and tonic is a classic summer drink for gin lovers worldwide. It’s made with gin, tonic water, and some additional flavors, such as cucumber, lemon, or lime. A regular gin and tonic can contain around 120-200 calories per serving.

If you want to keep the calories low, you can switch to a gin and tonic with slimline tonic, which is lower in calorie count and sugar content than the classic tonic.

You can also add fresh herbs, such as mint or rosemary, to infuse your gin and tonic with some extra flavor and health benefits.

The Calories in a Bloody Mary

Bloody Mary is a summer cocktail that’s often consumed at brunches or poolside parties. It’s made with vodka, tomato juice, and some spices, such as Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, salt, and pepper.

A regular Bloody Mary can contain around 120-150 calories, but the calorie count can increase if you add additional spices or mix-ins, such as olives, bacon, or cheese.

Therefore, it’s essential to keep the serving size and mix-ins reasonable to avoid overindulging in this hangover cure drink.

Conclusion

Summer cocktails can be refreshing and delicious, but it’s essential to monitor your calorie intake and drink in moderation.

You don’t have to give up your favorite drinks entirely, but you can make some small adjustments to make them healthier and lower in calories.

Next time you’re out for drinks at a bar or hosting a summer party, keep in mind the calorie count of your favorite drinks and try some of the alternatives listed above. Your body will thank you, and you’ll still have a great time!.