These 15 Lowest Calorie Alcohols come with calorie counts, low calorie ways to enjoy them. And even tips on how to choose the best alcohol in each category.
When you are trying to maintain a healthy diet, alcohol can be a tricky area to navigate. Many alcoholic drinks contain a high amount of calories, which can easily sabotage your efforts to lose weight.
However, there are some spirits that are lower in calories and can be enjoyed in moderation. In this article, we will take a look at the 15 lowest calorie liquor spirits, along with some information on how to enjoy them in a healthier way.
What Are Calories in Liquor?
Calories are a measure of the energy that is stored in food and drink. When we consume more calories than we burn through our daily activities and exercise, the excess energy is stored as fat in our bodies. This can lead to weight gain and other health problems over time.
In terms of liquor, the number of calories in a drink depends on the type of alcohol and the serving size. For example, a shot of 80-proof vodka (1.5 ounces) contains approximately 97 calories, while a shot of 80-proof whiskey (1.5 ounces) contains approximately 105 calories. However, the calories can vary greatly depending on the brand and alcohol content.
Why Choose Low-Calorie Liquor?
Choosing low-calorie liquor can be a helpful strategy if you are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet. By reducing the amount of calories in your alcoholic drinks, you can still enjoy a drink or two without sabotaging your progress.
Additionally, low-calorie liquor can be a good choice if you are watching your alcohol intake. By choosing drinks that are lower in calories, you can have more servings without exceeding your recommended daily limit.
Top 15 Lowest Calorie Alcohols
Here are the top 15 lowest calorie alcohols, ranked from lowest to highest in calories. As with all types of alcohol, it’s important to enjoy these low calorie alcohols in moderation and pair it with healthy food choices to prevent overconsumption and unwanted weight gain.
1. Vodka (97 Calories)
Vodka is a popular choice for those looking for a low-calorie option, as it is typically made with just water and ethanol. A 1.5-ounce serving of vodka contains around 97 calories, making it a great option for those watching their calorie intake. Vodka is also a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with a variety of low-calorie mixers such as club soda, tonic water, or fresh citrus juice.
A benefit of vodka is that it is a clear spirit, which means it has fewer impurities than darker spirits like whiskey or rum. This can make it a better choice for those who are sensitive to congeners, which are chemicals that are produced during the fermentation process and can cause hangover symptoms.
When choosing a vodka, opt for a high-quality brand that is made with natural ingredients and avoid flavored varieties that may contain added sugars and artificial flavors.
- 80-proof vodka (1.5 ounces): 97 calories
- Flavored vodka (1.5 ounces): 78-97 calories
2. Gin (97 Calories)
Gin is another clear spirit that is a popular choice for those watching their calorie intake. A 1.5-ounce serving of gin contains around 97 calories, making it a great option for cocktails. Gin is made from a variety of botanicals, including juniper berries, which give it a distinctive flavor profile. It can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with low-calorie mixers like tonic water, soda water, or fresh citrus juice.
One benefit of gin is that it is often enjoyed with tonic water, which contains quinine, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-malarial properties. However, be aware that tonic water can also contain added sugars, so it’s important to choose a low-calorie all-natural variety.
- 80-proof gin (1.5 ounces): 97 calories
- Flavored gin (1.5 ounces): 78-97 calories
3. Rum (97 Calories)
Rum is a popular spirit that is often associated with tropical cocktails like piña coladas and daiquiris. While these cocktails can be high in calories, a 1.5-ounce serving of rum contains around 97 calories, making it a good choice for those watching their calorie intake.
Rum is made from sugar cane and is often aged in oak barrels, which gives it a rich, complex flavor. It can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with low-calorie mixers like soda water, coconut water, or fresh fruit juice.
When choosing a rum, opt for a high-quality brand that is made with natural ingredients and avoid flavored varieties that may contain added sugars and artificial flavors.
- 80-proof rum (1.5 ounces): 97 calories
- Flavored rum (1.5 ounces): 75-97 calories
4. Tequila (97 Calories)
Tequila is a popular spirit that is made from the agave plant and is often associated with margaritas and other fruity cocktails. While these cocktails can be high in calories and sugar, a 1.5-ounce serving of tequila contains around 97 calories, making it a good choice for those watching their calorie intake. Tequila is also a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with low-calorie mixers like soda water or fresh lime juice.
Tequila is also available in different varieties, including blanco, reposado, and añejo, which can vary in flavor and complexity.
When choosing a tequila, opt for a high-quality brand that is made with natural ingredients and avoid flavored varieties that may contain added sugars and artificial flavors. Try these 7 Low Calorie Tequila Drinks.
- 80-proof tequila (1.5 ounces): 97 calories
- Flavored tequila (1.5 ounces): 60-97 calories
5. Whiskey (105 Calories)
Whiskey is a popular spirit that is often associated with cozy nights by the fire and classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan. While these cocktails can be high in calories, a 1.5-ounce serving of whiskey contains around 105 calories, making it a good choice for those watching their calorie intake.
Whiskey is made from a variety of grains, including barley, corn, and rye, which gives it a distinctive flavor profile. It can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with low-calorie mixers like soda water or fresh citrus juice.
When choosing a whiskey, opt for a high-quality brand that is made with natural ingredients and avoid flavored varieties that may contain added sugars and artificial flavors.
- 80-proof whiskey (1.5 ounces): 105 calories
- Flavored whiskey (1.5 ounces): 70-105 calories
6. Brandy (97 Calories)
Brandy is a type of liquor that is made by distilling wine. It is typically aged in oak barrels, which gives it a distinctive flavor and amber color.
Brandy is often enjoyed as an after-dinner drink and is commonly used in cocktails such as the Sidecar and Brandy Alexander. One of the lowest calorie options is E&J Brandy, which has only 65 calories per ounce. It is a great choice for those who enjoy the smooth taste of brandy but want to keep their calorie intake in check.
- 80-proof brandy (1.5 ounces): 97 calories
- Flavored brandy (1.5 ounces): 80-97 calories
7. Cognac (97 Calories)
Cognac is a type of brandy that is produced in the Cognac region of France. It is made from a specific type of grape and is aged for a minimum of two years in oak barrels.
Cognac is known for its complex flavors and aromas, which make it a popular choice for sipping and mixing into cocktails. One of the lowest calorie options is Courvoisier VS Cognac, which has only 69 calories per ounce. It is a great choice for those who enjoy the rich taste of cognac but want to watch their calorie intake.
- 80-proof cognac (1.5 ounces): 97 calories
- Flavored cognac (1.5 ounces): 80-97 calories
8. Champagne (84 Calories)
Champagne is a type of sparkling wine that is produced in the Champagne region of France. It is made using a specific method called the “Champagne method,” which involves a second fermentation in the bottle. Champagne is often associated with celebrations and is commonly used in toasts.
One of the lowest calorie options is Moët & Chandon Brut Imperial Champagne, which has only 96 calories per 5-ounce serving. It is a great choice for those who want to celebrate with a glass of bubbly without worrying about their calorie intake.
- Champagne (4 ounces): 84 calories
9. Prosecco (67 Calories)
Prosecco is a popular Italian sparkling wine that is low in calories and carbs. It typically contains around 80-100 calories per 5 oz serving. Prosecco is a great option for those who want to enjoy a celebratory drink without consuming too many calories.
Prosecco is also a good source of antioxidants, which can help to reduce inflammation in the body. However, it is important to remember that while Prosecco is lower in calories than many other alcoholic beverages, it still contains alcohol and should be consumed in moderation.
- Prosecco (4 ounces): 67 calories
10. White Wine (120 Calories)
White wine is another low-calorie option, with most varieties containing around 120-150 calories per 5 oz serving. Some of the lowest calorie white wines include Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay.
White wine is a good source of antioxidants and has been shown to have some health benefits when consumed in moderation. However, it is important to remember that all alcoholic beverages should be consumed in moderation.
White Wine (5 ounces): 120-130 calories
11. Red Wine (120 Calories)
Red wine is another popular option, with most varieties containing around 120-130 calories per 5 oz serving. Some of the lowest calorie red wines include Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Red wine is a good source of antioxidants, particularly resveratrol, which has been shown to have some health benefits. A good rule of thumb to pick out a good red wine is to pick one in the $25 price range (before discounts) or look for one that is sparse on the shelf, meaning others love it so much there is hardly any left.
- Red Wine (5 ounces): 120-130 calories
12. Light Beer (55 Calories)
Light beer is a popular option for those looking to cut down on calories. Most light beers contain around 90-100 calories per 12 oz serving, compared to around 150-200 calories for regular beer.
While light beer is lower in calories than regular beer, it is important to remember that it still contains alcohol and should be consumed in moderation.
- Light Beer (12 ounces): 55-100 calories
13. Hard Seltzer (100 Calories)
Hard seltzer has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many brands now offering low-calorie and low-carb options. Most hard seltzers contain around 100 calories per 12 oz serving, making them a great option for those looking to cut down on calories.
Hard seltzers are typically made with carbonated water and a flavored malt beverage, and are often infused with natural flavors and sweeteners. They are a good option for those who want a refreshing, low-calorie drink that is easy to find in most stores.
- Hard Seltzer (12 ounces): 100 calories
15. Low-Calorie Wine Spritzers (70 Calories)
Wine spritzers are a popular option for those who want to enjoy a refreshing, low-calorie drink. They are typically made with a combination of wine and carbonated water, and can be flavored with a variety of fruits and herbs.
Most wine spritzers contain around 100-120 calories per 5 oz serving, making them a great option for those looking to cut down on calories. Some popular options include white wine spritzers, rosé spritzers, red wine spritzers, and Aperol spritzers.
- Wine Spritzers (5 ounces): 70-80 calories
16. Skinny Margaritas (120 Calories)
Margaritas are a popular cocktail that are typically made with tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur. However, traditional margaritas can be high in calories and sugar.
Skinny margaritas are a low-calorie alternative that use fresh lime juice, tequila, and a low-calorie sweetener instead of orange liqueur.
- Skinny Margaritas (4 ounces): 120-140 calories
How to Enjoy Low-Calorie Liquor
While low-calorie liquor can be a good choice, it’s important to remember that alcohol can still have negative effects on your health. Here are some tips for enjoying low-calorie liquor in a healthier way:
Choose mixers that are low in calories, such as sparkling water or diet soda.
Avoid sugary mixers and syrups, which can add a significant amount of calories to your drink.
Limit your alcohol intake to a moderate amount (no more than one drink per day for women, and no more than two drinks per day for men). And avoid drinking on an empty stomach, as this can lead to overconsumption and increased calorie intake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, low-calorie liquor spirits can still get you drunk. It is important to drink responsibly and to never drink and drive.
The best way to enjoy low-calorie liquor spirits is to drink them straight or with a low-calorie mixer such as soda water or diet tonic.
The cost of low-calorie liquor spirits can vary depending on the brand and type of liquor. However, in general, they are not significantly more expensive than regular options.
While low-calorie liquor spirits are lower in calories, they are not necessarily healthier than regular options. Alcohol in any form should be consumed in moderation and with caution.
Yes, it is possible to enjoy a night out without consuming alcohol. Many bars and restaurants offer non-alcoholic options that are just as enjoyable and flavorful as alcoholic beverages.
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