The holiday season is a time for indulging in tempting treats and sipping on festive drinks. However, those delicious beverages can quickly add up in calories, wreaking havoc on any weight loss goals.

In this article, we will explore the most popular holiday drinks and how many calories they contain.

1. Eggnog

Eggnog is a classic holiday drink that is made with milk, eggs, sugar, and spices. While the recipe may vary, the average serving size of eggnog contains around 300-350 calories, with most of those calories coming from fat and sugar.

If you want to indulge in a glass of eggnog, consider making a homemade version with low-fat milk and cutting back on the sugar to reduce the calories.

2. Hot Chocolate

Hot chocolate is a comforting drink that is perfect for a chilly winter evening. On average, a mug of hot cocoa contains around 200-250 calories, with most of those calories coming from sugar and whipped cream.

If you want to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate without the guilt, skip the whipped cream and use unsweetened cocoa powder to reduce the sugar content.

3. Mulled Wine

Mulled wine is a popular holiday drink that is made by heating up red wine with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.

While a glass of mulled wine may not seem like it contains many calories, one serving can have up to 250 calories, with most of those calories coming from the alcohol. If you want to enjoy a glass of mulled wine, consider sharing it with a friend or diluting it with some seltzer water to reduce the caloric content.

4. Cider

Apple cider is a refreshing drink that is perfect for the holiday season. Depending on the recipe, one cup of cider can contain anywhere from 120 to 200 calories, with most of those calories coming from sugar or caramel.

If you want to enjoy a glass of apple cider, try making a homemade version that contains fewer calories and less sugar than the store-bought variety.

5. Hot Toddy

A hot toddy is a classic drink that is made by combining hot water, whiskey, honey, and lemon.

While it may seem like a healthier alternative to other holiday beverages, a single hot toddy can contain anywhere from 150 to 200 calories, with most of those calories coming from the whiskey and honey. If you want to enjoy a hot toddy, consider using less honey or using a sugar-free substitute to cut back on the calories.

6. Champagne Cocktails

Champagne cocktails are a popular choice for celebrating the New Year. On average, a single champagne cocktail contains around 150-200 calories, with most of those calories coming from the alcohol and added sugar.

If you want to enjoy a glass of champagne without all the calories, skip the sugary mixers and opt for a champagne bellini with fresh fruit instead.

7. Peppermint Mocha

A peppermint mocha is a holiday classic that combines chocolate and peppermint flavors. However, a single cup of peppermint mocha from a coffee shop can contain up to 400 calories, with most of those calories coming from sugar and whipped cream.

To enjoy a lower calorie version of this drink, try making a homemade version with unsweetened cocoa powder, almond milk, and a sugar-free sweetener.

8. Spiked Eggnog

A spiked eggnog is a holiday drink that is made with traditional eggnog mixed with liquor like rum, brandy, or whiskey.

While a single serving may not seem like it contains many calories, a cup of spiked eggnog can contain 400 to 500 calories or more, with most of those calories coming from alcohol and sugar. If you want to indulge in a spiked eggnog, consider making a homemade version with low-fat eggnog and using a sugar-free sweetener to reduce the calories.

9. Peppermint Hot Chocolate

A peppermint hot chocolate is a holiday classic that combines hot chocolate with peppermint flavors.

On average, a single cup of peppermint hot chocolate can contain anywhere from 200 to 400 calories, with most of those calories coming from sugar and whipped cream. To enjoy a lower calorie version of this drink, try making a homemade version with unsweetened cocoa powder, almond milk, and a sugar-free sweetener, and skip the whipped cream.

10. Pina Colada Cocktail

A pina colada cocktail is a tropical drink that may seem out of place during the holiday season. However, this drink is becoming increasingly popular as a holiday option.

On average, one single serving can contain up to 500 calories, with most of those calories coming from the alcohol and sugar. To enjoy a lower calorie version of this drink, try making a homemade version with coconut water and fresh pineapple, and skip the added sugar and alcohol.

Conclusion

The holiday season is a time for indulging in delicious treats and festive drinks. However, it is important to be mindful of the number of calories in those beverages to prevent overindulging.

By choosing lower calorie options, making homemade versions, or simply limiting portions, you can still enjoy your favorite holiday drinks without compromising your weight loss goals.