Choosing the right alcoholic beverage on a diet can be a tricky task. While all types of spirits are high in calories, there are some options that are lower in calories and carbohydrates than others.

Whether you’re counting calories or carbs, here are the best spirits to choose on a diet:.

Vodka

Vodka is a popular choice for those who are watching their waistline. It has no carbs and is relatively low in calories, with around 96 calories per 1.5-ounce shot.

The key is to mix it with low-calorie options, such as soda water or diet tonic, to keep the calorie count low. Avoid mixing it with sugary mixers like juice or regular tonic water.

Gin

Gin is another low-carb and low-calorie option that is gaining popularity among dieters. Like vodka, gin has around 96 calories per 1.5-ounce shot. It’s best paired with a low-calorie tonic water or soda water and a slice of lime.

Avoid sugary mixers like fruit juice or regular tonic water.

Tequila

Tequila is a popular choice for those on a low-carb diet, as it has zero carbs. It’s important to note that tequila is still high in calories, with around 104 calories per 1.5-ounce shot.

However, it’s easy to keep the calorie count low by using a low-calorie mixer, such as soda water or a splash of lime juice.

Rum

Rum is a slightly higher calorie option, with around 128 calories per 1.5-ounce shot. However, like other spirits, it’s low in carbs. Choose a light rum, and mix it with a low-calorie beverage, such as diet cola or soda water.

Avoid sugary mixers like fruit juice or regular soda.

Whiskey

Whiskey is a popular spirit that is often enjoyed neat or on the rocks. It’s a higher calorie option, with around 105 calories per 1.5-ounce shot, but it’s still low in carbs.

If you’re looking to lower your calorie count, mix it with a low-calorie beverage like soda water or diet ginger ale. Avoid sugary mixers like regular ginger ale or cola.

Brandy

Brandy is a low-carb option, with only 0.5 grams of carbs per 1.5-ounce shot. It’s also lower in calories than some other spirits, with around 80 calories per shot.

Opt for a light brandy, and mix it with soda water or diet ginger ale to keep the calorie count low.

Beer

While beer isn’t typically considered a spirit, it’s worth mentioning because it’s a popular alcoholic beverage. Beer is notoriously high in carbs and calories, with some options containing over 300 calories per serving.

However, there are some low-carb and low-calorie options available. Look for light beer or low-carb beer options, and enjoy in moderation.

Wine

Wine is also not typically considered a spirit, but it’s a common alcoholic beverage choice. While wine is low in carbs, it’s higher in calories than other spirits, with around 120 calories per 5-ounce serving.

Opt for a dry wine, like a pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc, and avoid sweeter options like moscato.

Mixers to Avoid

While choosing the right spirit is important, the mixers you use are just as crucial. Sugary mixers can quickly add up in calories and carbs, derailing even the most dedicated dieter. Here are some mixers to avoid:.

Fruit juice
Regular soda
Regular tonic water
Cola
Sweetened lemonade

Mixers to Choose

If you’re looking for a low-calorie mixer, there are plenty of options available. Some of the best include:.

Soda water
Diet tonic water
Diet cola
Club soda
Lime or lemon juice
Cucumber slices
Fresh herbs, like mint or basil

While spirits can be a part of a healthy lifestyle, it’s important to enjoy them in moderation and choose low-calorie, low-carb options whenever possible.

With these tips and recommendations, you can still enjoy a cocktail or two without derailing your diet.