Enjoying a drink doesn’t have to ruin your diet. Many tasty alcoholic beverages are low in calories, letting you sip without guilt.

These drinks can fit into a healthy lifestyle when enjoyed in moderation.

You can find low-calorie options for most types of alcohol, from beer to cocktails. Some drinks naturally have fewer calories, while others use diet mixers or less alcohol to cut down on energy.

With smart choices, you can still enjoy a night out or a relaxing drink at home without going overboard on calories.

1. Vodka Soda

Vodka soda is a popular low-calorie cocktail. It’s simple to make and light on calories.

You only need two main ingredients: vodka and soda water.

A typical vodka soda has about 60-65 calories per drink. This makes it a great choice if you’re watching your calorie intake.

To make a vodka soda, pour 1.5 ounces of vodka over ice in a tall glass. Fill the rest with soda water.

You can add a squeeze of lime for extra flavor without adding many calories.

This drink is refreshing and easy to sip. It’s a good option for social gatherings or relaxing at home. Remember to drink responsibly and stay hydrated.

2. Gin and Tonic

Gin and tonic is a classic low-calorie cocktail that’s easy to make and enjoy. You’ll need gin, tonic water, and a lime wedge.

To keep it light, opt for diet tonic water. This cuts down on sugar and calories while still giving you that signature fizz.

Mix 1.5 ounces of gin with 4-6 ounces of diet tonic water over ice. Squeeze in some fresh lime juice for extra flavor.

This refreshing drink has around 100 calories, depending on the gin you choose. It’s a great option for warm days or anytime you want something crisp and bubbly.

3. Rum and Diet Coke

Rum and diet coke is a tasty low-calorie cocktail option. By swapping regular cola for diet, you cut down on sugar and calories significantly.

A standard serving uses 1.5 ounces of rum mixed with diet cola. This drink typically contains around 100 calories, much less than its full-sugar counterpart.

You can use light or dark rum based on your preference. Light rum offers a milder flavor, while dark rum provides a richer taste.

Either way, you’ll enjoy a refreshing drink without derailing your calorie goals.

Remember to measure your pour to keep calories in check. Stick to one or two drinks to maintain moderation.

4. Tequila Sunrise with Light Orange Juice

This classic cocktail gets a low-calorie makeover. Use light orange juice to cut calories while keeping the iconic sunrise look.

Mix 1.5 oz tequila with 3 oz light orange juice in a tall glass filled with ice. Pour 0.5 oz sugar-free grenadine slowly over the back of a spoon to create the sunrise effect.

This version has about 150 calories, much less than the original. You still get the fruity taste without all the sugar. The light orange juice provides vitamin C too.

For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Garnish with an orange slice or maraschino cherry if you like.

5. Whiskey Sour with Splenda

You can enjoy a tasty Whiskey Sour without the extra calories by using Splenda. This low-calorie sweetener lets you savor the classic cocktail guilt-free.

To make it, mix 2 ounces of quality American brown whiskey with 4 ounces of lemon juice. Add 1 teaspoon of Splenda Stevia Liquid Sweetener for sweetness.

This drink contains only 140 calories per 6-ounce serving. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 5 minutes from start to finish.

You’ll get the same great taste as a traditional Whiskey Sour, but with fewer calories. It’s a smart choice for those watching their sugar intake or calorie consumption.

6. Light Beer

Light beer is a popular choice for those watching their calorie intake. It typically has fewer calories than regular beer, ranging from 90-100 calories per 12-ounce serving.

Many major breweries offer light versions of their popular beers. These have less alcohol content, usually around 4% ABV, which helps reduce the calorie count.

Light beers often have a crisp, refreshing taste. They can be a good option for casual drinking or social occasions when you want to enjoy a beer without consuming too many calories.

Some light beers even offer flavor varieties like lime or orange to add interest without extra calories.

When choosing a light beer, check the label for calorie and alcohol content to find one that fits your preferences.

7. Mojito with Stevia

You can enjoy a refreshing mojito without the extra calories by using stevia instead of sugar. This low-calorie version keeps the classic flavors you love.

To make it, muddle fresh mint leaves with lime juice and stevia in a glass. Add rum and ice, then top with club soda. Give it a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.

The result is a light, minty drink that satisfies your cocktail craving. You get all the taste of a traditional mojito with fewer calories. It’s perfect for sipping on warm evenings or at parties.

8. Rose Wine

Rose wine can be a great low-calorie option for wine lovers. A typical 5-ounce glass of rose contains about 100-120 calories.

Some rose wines have even fewer calories. For example, Thomson & Scott Noughty Sparkling Rose has just 18 calories per serving.

When choosing a rose, look for drier varieties. These tend to have less sugar and fewer calories than sweeter roses.

You can enjoy rose chilled on its own or mix it into a spritzer with sparkling water for an even lower-calorie drink. Remember to watch your portion sizes to keep the calorie count down.

9. Prosecco

Prosecco is a great low-calorie option for those watching their weight. A small glass of this Italian sparkling wine contains around 89 calories.

This bubbly drink is not only lower in calories but also in alcohol content compared to many other alcoholic beverages. A typical prosecco has about 11% alcohol by volume.

You can enjoy prosecco on its own or use it as a base for light cocktails. For example, mix it with a splash of fresh fruit juice for a refreshing spritzer.

When choosing prosecco, look for “brut” varieties. These are drier and typically contain less sugar than sweeter options.

10. Champagne

Champagne is a great choice for a low-calorie alcoholic drink. A 4-ounce glass typically has around 85-95 calories. This bubbly beverage is lower in calories than many other alcoholic options.

Opt for brut or extra brut champagne for the lowest calorie count. These varieties have less added sugar.

You can enjoy champagne on its own or mix it with a splash of fresh fruit juice for more flavor.

Remember to drink champagne in moderation. While it’s relatively low in calories, the bubbles can make you feel full faster. This may help you naturally limit your intake.

11. Red Wine (Pinot Noir)

Pinot Noir is a great choice for wine lovers watching their calories. This light-bodied red wine typically has fewer calories than other reds.

A 5-ounce glass of Pinot Noir contains about 120-130 calories. This makes it a smart pick when you want to enjoy wine without overindulging.

Pinot Noir offers a delicate flavor profile with notes of red fruits like cherries and raspberries. You’ll also taste hints of earthy flavors that add depth.

To keep calories in check, stick to one glass and sip it slowly. Pair your Pinot Noir with lean proteins or vegetables for a balanced meal.

12. White Wine (Sauvignon Blanc)

Sauvignon Blanc is a great choice for those watching their calorie intake. A 5-ounce glass usually contains about 120 calories.

This crisp white wine has a light, refreshing taste. It often has notes of citrus, green apple, and grass.

You can enjoy Sauvignon Blanc on its own or mix it with sparkling water for a lower-calorie spritzer. To make a spritzer, use 3 ounces of wine and 2 ounces of soda water.

When choosing a Sauvignon Blanc, look for dry varieties. These tend to have fewer calories than sweeter options.

13. Hard Seltzer

Hard seltzer is a popular low-calorie alcoholic drink. It’s made by mixing carbonated water with alcohol and fruit flavors. Most hard seltzers have around 100 calories per can.

You’ll find many brands and flavors to choose from. Some options include lime, berry, and tropical fruit. Hard seltzers usually have about 5% alcohol by volume.

These drinks are a good choice if you want something light and refreshing. They’re often lower in calories and carbs than beer or mixed drinks.

Hard seltzers can be a tasty option for summer parties or casual get-togethers.

14. Skinny Margarita

A skinny margarita is a great low-calorie option for tequila lovers. This drink swaps out sugary mixers for fresh ingredients.

To make one, you’ll need tequila, fresh lime juice, and orange juice. Add a small amount of agave nectar or a zero-calorie sweetener for a touch of sweetness.

Mix these ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well for about 30 seconds. Strain into a glass filled with ice.

For extra flavor, rim your glass with salt before pouring. Garnish with a lime wedge. This refreshing cocktail has fewer calories than a regular margarita but still tastes delicious.

15. Aperol Spritz with Diet Soda

Aperol Spritz is a popular Italian cocktail that’s perfect for summer. You can make a lower-calorie version by using diet soda instead of regular sparkling water.

To make this drink, mix Aperol, Prosecco, and diet lemon-lime soda. The diet soda cuts calories while keeping the bubbly texture.

This twist on the classic recipe has fewer calories but keeps the refreshing taste. It’s a great choice if you want to enjoy a cocktail without too many calories.

Remember to garnish with an orange slice for extra flavor and a pop of color. Serve over ice for a cool, refreshing drink on a hot day.

16. Michelob Ultra

Michelob Ultra is a popular low-calorie beer option. It contains only 95 calories and 2.6 grams of carbs per 12-ounce serving. This light lager has a 4.2% alcohol content.

The beer has a light citrus aroma and a crisp, refreshing taste. It’s brewed with a balance of hops and grains to create its unique flavor profile.

You can find Michelob Ultra in both cans and bottles. It’s often sold in 18-packs, making it convenient for social gatherings or keeping your fridge stocked.

Many people choose Michelob Ultra after workouts or when they want to enjoy a beer without consuming too many calories.

17. Corona Premier

Corona Premier is a light Mexican lager that offers a lower-calorie option for beer lovers. With just 90 calories per 12 fl. oz. serving, it’s a smart choice if you’re watching your intake.

This crisp and refreshing beer has a light body and clean taste. It contains only 2.6 grams of carbs per serving, making it a good pick for those on low-carb diets.

Corona Premier has a 4.0% ABV, so you can enjoy it without worrying about excessive alcohol content. It comes in bottles and cans, perfect for various occasions.

You can share Corona Premier with friends at barbecues or on the golf course. Its smooth flavor makes it easy to drink on its own too.

18. Bud Light Next

Bud Light Next is a new low-calorie beer option. It contains zero carbs and only 80 calories per 12-ounce can.

This light beer has 4% alcohol by volume. It’s made with malted barley and rice for a crisp, refreshing taste.

Bud Light Next hit stores in February 2022. It’s aimed at health-conscious drinkers looking to cut carbs and calories.

You can find Bud Light Next at many retailers nationwide. It’s a good choice if you want a light beer with no carbs.

Understanding Low Calorie Drinks

Low calorie alcoholic drinks can be a smart choice for those watching their weight or trying to maintain a balanced lifestyle. These beverages offer a way to enjoy alcohol while minimizing extra calories.

Caloric Content of Alcohol

Alcohol contains 7 calories per gram, which is almost as much as fat. Pure spirits like vodka, gin, and rum have about 97 calories per 1.5 oz shot. Wine has around 125 calories per 5 oz glass. Beer varies widely, with light beers having about 100 calories per 12 oz serving.

Mixed drinks often add extra calories from sugary mixers. A standard margarita can have over 200 calories. To keep drinks low-calorie, choose zero-calorie mixers like soda water or diet soda.

Some lower calorie options include:

• Vodka soda with lime (96 calories)
• Light beer (100 calories)
• Champagne (85 calories per 4 oz)

Impact on Health and Wellness

Low calorie drinks can help you stick to your diet goals while still enjoying social occasions. They let you have a drink without derailing your calorie budget for the day. This can be helpful for weight management.

But remember, even low calorie alcohol still affects your body. It can lower inhibitions and lead to overeating. Alcohol also slows fat burning as your body processes it first.

Moderation is key. Stick to recommended limits:

• Women: Up to 1 drink per day
• Men: Up to 2 drinks per day

Drinking water between alcoholic drinks can help you stay hydrated and pace yourself. This can reduce the negative effects of alcohol on your health and wellness.

Making Smarter Choices

When it comes to low-calorie alcoholic drinks, being mindful and choosing quality ingredients can make a big difference. These practices help you enjoy tasty cocktails while sticking to your health goals.

Mindful Drinking Practices

Start by picking smaller glasses for your drinks. This helps control portion sizes.

Sip slowly and savor each drink. Try to alternate between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Keep track of how many drinks you have. Set a limit before you start drinking.

Avoid sugary mixers like fruit juices or soda. Instead, use seltzer water or fresh lemon juice.

Eat a healthy meal before drinking. This can slow down alcohol absorption.

Stay hydrated by drinking water between alcoholic drinks.

Choosing Quality Ingredients

Opt for fresh fruits instead of pre-made mixes.

Squeeze your own citrus juices for a fresher taste.

Use herbs like mint or basil to add flavor without extra calories.

Pick top-shelf spirits. They often have a smoother taste, so you can use less.

Try sugar-free mixers or natural sweeteners like stevia.

Experiment with flavored vodkas or gin. They can add taste without extra sugar.

Use spices like cinnamon or ginger to boost flavor.

Look for low-calorie tonic waters or light beers.

These can cut calories while still giving you the taste you want.