Is vodka really 0 calories? The definitive answer

November 2, 2025 •

3 min read

The myth of zero-calorie vodka is a widespread misconception, particularly among those on low-carb diets. The truth is that while plain, unflavored vodka contains no carbohydrates, fat, or sugar, it still contains calories from the alcohol itself. This is a critical distinction for anyone monitoring their intake for weight management or health reasons.

Quick Summary

Vodka is not calorie-free; its caloric content comes solely from the ethanol. A standard 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof vodka contains approximately 97 calories. This is because alcohol is a calorie-dense substance that the body metabolizes, potentially disrupting fat-burning processes and indirectly contributing to weight gain if consumed excessively.

Key Points

Vodka is not calorie-free: A standard 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof vodka contains approximately 97 calories from the alcohol (ethanol), which provides 7 calories per gram.
Proof determines calories: The higher the proof of the vodka, the higher its alcohol concentration and, therefore, the higher its calorie count per serving.
Calories come from alcohol, not carbs: Pure, unflavored vodka contains zero carbohydrates, sugar, or fat; all calories are from the ethanol.
Mixers add hidden calories: The caloric load of a vodka drink can significantly increase with the addition of sugary mixers like juice, tonic water, or soda.
Alcohol slows fat burning: When your body metabolizes alcohol, it temporarily prioritizes this process over burning fat, an effect known as "fat sparing," which can hinder weight loss.
Flavored vodkas may contain sugar: Some flavored vodkas might contain added sugars, so it's wise to check labels, though some zero-sugar flavored options exist.

The truth about vodka's calories

For many years, marketing and folklore have perpetuated the idea that vodka is a "pure" and low-calorie spirit. While it's true that distilled, unflavored vodka contains zero carbs and zero sugar, it is definitively not calorie-free. The calories in vodka, and all alcoholic spirits, come from the alcohol itself, or ethanol. Alcohol contains approximately 7 calories per gram, which is more than protein and carbohydrates (4 calories/gram) and only slightly less than fat (9 calories/gram).

How alcohol proof affects calorie count

The number of calories in a serving of vodka is directly tied to its alcohol by volume (ABV), which is indicated by its "proof". The higher the proof, the higher the alcohol concentration, and the more calories per serving. To find the percentage of alcohol, you simply divide the proof by two.

Here's how the calories break down for a standard 1.5-ounce shot of plain vodka:

70 proof (35% alcohol): Approximately 85 calories
80 proof (40% alcohol): Approximately 97 calories
90 proof (45% alcohol): Approximately 110 calories
100 proof (50% alcohol): Approximately 124 calories

The metabolic impact of vodka

When you consume alcohol, your body treats it as a toxin and prioritizes metabolizing it over other processes, including fat and carbohydrate burning. This process is known as "fat sparing" and can temporarily halt your body's ability to burn stored fat for energy. Some research suggests this can last for up to 36 hours. This metabolic disruption is a critical factor for anyone focused on weight management, as the empty calories from alcohol can easily contribute to overall weight gain.

The deceptive nature of mixers

While plain vodka can be a relatively low-calorie choice among spirits, the real danger to a diet often lies in the mixers. Adding sugary juices, sodas, or syrups to a vodka drink can dramatically increase its caloric and carbohydrate content, undoing any perceived benefit of choosing a low-calorie base spirit.

Comparison: Vodka vs. common mixed drinks


Drink	Serving Size	Approximate Calories	Notes
Vodka (80 proof)	1.5 oz shot	97	Zero carbs, zero sugar.
Vodka Soda	1.5 oz vodka + club soda	97	Low calorie, zero sugar if using diet soda.
Vodka Tonic	7 fl oz (1.5 oz vodka + tonic)	189	Tonic water contains sugar.
Vodka Cranberry	6.5 fl oz (1.5 oz vodka + cranberry juice)	184	High sugar content from juice.
Cosmopolitan	2.75 fl oz	146	Contains vodka, cranberry juice, triple sec, and lime juice.
White Russian	8 fl oz	568	High calories from vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream.

Making smarter choices

If you want to enjoy vodka while being mindful of your diet, a few strategies can help minimize its impact:

Choose clear, unflavored vodka. Flavored vodkas can contain added sugars, so it's essential to check the label or choose versions with zero added sugar.
Opt for low-calorie mixers, such as soda water, sparkling water, or diet sodas. A vodka soda with a squeeze of lime is a classic, low-calorie option.
Drink in moderation. Adhering to standard guidelines for moderate alcohol consumption can help prevent excessive caloric intake and mitigate the metabolic disruption caused by alcohol.
Stay hydrated. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water to help with hydration and reduce your overall intake.

Conclusion

The idea that vodka contains zero calories is a pervasive myth. While it contains zero carbs or sugars, the calories from the ethanol itself are significant. A standard 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof vodka contains almost 100 calories, and the addition of sugary mixers can send that number soaring. Beyond the direct calorie count, alcohol consumption can also stall your body's fat-burning metabolism. For those on a diet, moderation and mindful consumption are key to enjoying vodka without compromising weight management goals.

Center for Science in the Public Interest: Which alcoholic beverages have the most (or least) calories?

Healthline: Vodka: Calories, Carbs, and Nutrition Facts

Mount Sinai: Weight loss and alcohol Information

Choose Your Horizon: Vodka Calories: The "Clean" Spirit Myth That's Sabotaging Your Diet

Drinkaware.ie: Alcoholic Drinks Calorie Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

The calories in vodka come exclusively from the alcohol itself, which is scientifically known as ethanol. Ethanol contains about 7 calories per gram.

Not always. While some flavored vodkas are zero-sugar and low-calorie, others contain added sugars that increase the calorie count. It's important to check the specific brand's label.

An average 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof (40% ABV) vodka contains approximately 97 calories.

Yes, it can. Since your body prioritizes metabolizing alcohol, it temporarily halts the burning of fats, which can interfere with weight loss efforts over time. Excessive intake also adds non-nutritious calories.

No. The perception that vodka and other clear spirits are calorie-free is a myth. All distilled spirits contain calories from their alcohol content.

To minimize calories, mix vodka with calorie-free options such as club soda, sparkling water, or a diet mixer. You can add flavor with a squeeze of fresh citrus like lime or lemon.

Alcoholic calories are considered "empty" because they provide energy without offering any essential vitamins, minerals, or other nutritional value.