As the summer heats up, many of us turn to refreshing beverages to relax and cool off after a long day.

However, many of our favorite summer cocktails can be high in calories and sugar, which can quickly add up and negatively impact our health and fitness goals. In this article, we will explore the calories in some of the most popular summer cocktails, so you can make informed decisions about what to sip on this season.

1. Margaritas

Margaritas are a classic summer cocktail that many people love to indulge in. However, a standard margarita can contain around 300-500 calories, depending on the size and ingredients used.

The main source of calories in margaritas is the mixers, which are usually high in sugar and calories. To cut down on calories, opt for a light or “skinny” margarita that uses fresh lime juice and less sugar.

2. Piña Coladas

Another popular summer cocktail is the piña colada, which is a sweet and creamy blend of rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice.

However, this tropical drink can pack a whopping 500-800 calories per serving, making it one of the highest-calorie cocktails out there. To enjoy a piña colada without overdoing it on calories, try using light coconut milk or coconut water instead of coconut cream, and use fresh pineapple juice or a low-sugar pineapple mix.

3. Mojitos

Mojitos are a light and refreshing cocktail made with rum, lime juice, mint, and soda water. Compared to some other summer cocktails, a standard mojito is relatively low in calories, with around 150-200 calories per serving.

However, many mojito mixers contain added sugar, which can increase the calorie count. To keep your mojitos light and healthy, use fresh mint and lime, and opt for a low-sugar or sugar-free mix.

4. Sangria

Sangria is a fruity wine-based cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. However, the calorie count can vary widely depending on the recipe and ingredients used.

Most sangria recipes contain wine, fruit juice, and fruit, which can add up to around 150-300 calories per serving. To make your sangria more calorie-friendly, use a white or rosé wine instead of red, and skip the added sugar or sweetener.

5. Daiquiris

Daiquiris are a frozen cocktail made with rum, fruit, and ice. While they may seem like a low-calorie option, many daiquiri mixers contain added sugar and syrups that can make them high in calories.

A standard frozen daiquiri can pack in around 300-500 calories per serving. To enjoy a healthier version of this summer classic, make your daiquiri with fresh fruit, natural sweeteners like honey or agave, and less ice or frozen fruit mixers.

6. Gin and Tonic

Gin and tonic is a simple and classic cocktail that is popular all year round. It is made with gin, tonic water, and a slice of lime. While this drink may seem light and refreshing, the tonic water can be high in calories and sugar.

A standard gin and tonic can contain around 120-200 calories per serving. To make your gin and tonic healthier, use a sugar-free or low-sugar tonic water, and skip the added sweeteners like simple syrup or flavored syrups.

7. Bloody Mary

Bloody Mary is a brunch staple that many people love to indulge in on the weekends. It is made with vodka, tomato juice, and a variety of spices and flavorings.

While a standard Bloody Mary can be relatively low in calories, around 120-200 calories per serving, the added mixers and garnishes can quickly add up. To keep your Bloody Mary healthy and low-calorie, use fresh tomato juice or a low-sodium mix, and skip heavy garnishes like bacon and cheese.

8. Beer

Beer may not be a traditional summer cocktail, but it is still a popular drink for many people during the warmer months. A standard beer can contain around 150-200 calories per serving, depending on the brand and type.

To keep your beer intake healthy and low-calorie, opt for light beers or low-alcohol content options, and limit your intake to one or two drinks per sitting.

9. Vodka Soda

Vodka soda is a simple and low-calorie cocktail that many health-conscious people enjoy. It is made with vodka, soda water, and a slice of lime.

A standard vodka soda contains around 100-150 calories per serving, making it one of the lowest-calorie cocktails on the list. To make your vodka soda even healthier, use a sugar-free or low-sugar soda water, and skip the added sweeteners and flavorings.

10. Lemonade Cocktails

Lemonade cocktails are a popular choice for those who enjoy a sweet and tangy summer drink. However, many lemonade mixers can be high in sugar and calories, which can cancel out the potential health benefits of the fresh lemon juice.

To keep your lemonade cocktails healthy and low-calorie, use fresh lemon juice, a natural sweetener like honey or stevia, and limit your alcohol intake to one or two drinks per sitting.