Which alcoholic drink has the lowest calories?

According to the National Institutes of Health, a standard 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof spirits like vodka or gin contains approximately 97 calories. For those monitoring their intake, this makes pure spirits a strong contender when asking which alcoholic drink has the lowest calories, but the full picture involves many factors beyond just the liquor itself.

Quick Summary

This guide breaks down the calorie counts for various alcoholic beverages, from clear spirits and light beers to dry wines. It offers practical advice on choosing low-calorie options and reducing calories in mixed drinks for healthier consumption.

Key Points

• Pure Spirits Win: When consumed neat or with zero-calorie mixers, spirits like vodka and gin have the fewest calories per standard serving.

• Mixers Are Key: The most significant calorie contribution to a mixed drink often comes from sugary juices, sodas, and syrups, not the alcohol itself.

• Choose Light Options: Opting for light beer, hard seltzers, or dry wines over their higher-calorie regular or sweet counterparts is a simple way to save calories.

• Mind the ABV: Higher alcohol by volume (ABV) translates to more calories, so lower-proof beverages are generally more diet-friendly.

• Moderation is Essential: Even low-calorie alcoholic drinks contribute to overall calorie intake and can impact weight loss goals if not consumed in moderation.

Understanding Alcohol Calories and the Sources

When counting calories in alcoholic beverages, it's crucial to understand where those calories come from. The calories in alcohol are primarily from two sources: the alcohol itself and residual sugars or carbohydrates. Alcohol, or ethanol, is very calorie-dense, providing 7 calories per gram—only slightly less than fat's 9 calories per gram. This means that the higher the alcohol by volume (ABV), the higher the calorie count will be. Additionally, sweeteners, whether added during production or in mixers, contribute a significant number of carbohydrates and calories. The key to finding the lowest-calorie options, therefore, is to look for drinks with both low ABV and minimal to no added sugars.

The Lowest Calorie Contenders by Category

For those seeking the most diet-friendly alcoholic options, here is a breakdown of the top choices in each category.

Plain Spirits with Zero-Calorie Mixers

When it comes to raw calories per serving, pure distilled spirits lead the pack, assuming they are consumed without sugary mixers. A standard 1.5-ounce serving of 80-proof vodka, gin, or tequila contains around 97 calories. These spirits contain no carbs or sugar on their own, making them an excellent base for a low-calorie beverage when paired with a zero-calorie mixer. Popular choices include:

• Vodka with club soda and a lime wedge (around 82 calories)
• Gin with diet tonic water and a splash of citrus (approximately 57 calories)
• Tequila with sparkling mineral water and a squeeze of fresh lime juice

Light Beer and Hard Seltzers

For those who prefer a beer or bubbly alternative, light options are the way to go. Standard beers can contain 150-200 calories per 12-ounce serving, but light versions drastically reduce this number.

• Ultra-light beers: The lowest-calorie options can have as few as 55-95 calories per 12 oz.
• Most light beers: The majority of light beers fall into the 90-110 calorie range per 12 oz.
• Hard seltzers: These are another popular low-calorie choice, typically containing 90-100 calories per 12 oz.

Dry Wines and Champagne

Wine enthusiasts can make calorie-conscious choices by opting for dry varietals and sparkling options. The key is to avoid sweet, high-sugar wines and pay attention to ABV.

• Dry White Wines: Varietals like Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc typically contain 100-120 calories per 5 oz glass.
• Dry Red Wines: Lighter-bodied dry reds, such as Pinot Noir, offer around 110-130 calories per 5 oz glass.
• Brut Champagne: A 4-ounce serving of Brut or Extra Brut champagne can have as few as 85 calories, making it an excellent choice for a low-calorie celebration.

Calorie Comparison Table

To put these options into perspective, here is a comparison of standard serving sizes and their approximate calorie counts, based on information from sources like MedlinePlus, EatingWell, and GetLabTest.

Drink Type	Standard Serving	Approximate Calories	Key Calorie Sources
Vodka, Gin, Tequila	1.5 fl oz shot	97	Alcohol
Light Beer	12 fl oz bottle	90–110	Alcohol, some carbs
Hard Seltzer	12 fl oz can	90–100	Alcohol, some carbs
Dry White Wine	5 fl oz glass	100–120	Alcohol, minimal sugar
Dry Red Wine	5 fl oz glass	115–130	Alcohol, minimal sugar
Brut Champagne	4 oz glass	85	Alcohol, minimal sugar
Standard Beer	12 fl oz bottle	150–200	Alcohol, more carbs
Mixed Drink (e.g., Margarita)	Varies	160+	Alcohol, high sugar

How to Reduce Calories in Cocktails

For those who prefer mixed drinks, reducing calories is all about making smart swaps and avoiding sugary traps. Here are some actionable tips:

• Choose Zero-Calorie Mixers: Use club soda, diet sodas, or diet tonic water instead of sugary alternatives.
• Add Natural Flavor: Infuse your drinks with flavor from fresh herbs like mint or basil, or add slices of citrus fruits like lemon and lime.
• Make Your Own Syrups: If a recipe calls for simple syrup, create your own low-calorie version using a sugar substitute or control the amount you add.
• Order Spritzers: For a lighter wine option, mix dry white wine with a splash of club soda.
• Monitor Portion Sizes: Be mindful of larger drink sizes, especially for cocktails, as these can contain significantly more calories. A standard pour is key.

Conclusion: Making Smarter Choices

While alcohol consumption always adds calories, choosing the right drink can minimize the impact on your diet. Pure spirits like vodka, gin, or tequila with zero-calorie mixers represent the absolute lowest-calorie option for those seeking the most significant reduction. Light beers, hard seltzers, and dry wines are also excellent alternatives. The real takeaway is that the majority of a drink's calories come from its alcohol content and added sugars. By being mindful of these factors, practicing portion control, and choosing low-calorie mixers, you can enjoy a drink without derailing your health goals. For a comprehensive tool to calculate the calories in different alcoholic beverages, visit the NIH Alcohol Calorie Calculator.

The Lowdown on Low-Calorie Drinking

Can I Drink Alcohol and Still Lose Weight?

Yes, but moderation is essential. Choosing low-calorie alcoholic drinks and being mindful of portion sizes allows alcohol to be included in a balanced diet. However, alcohol can slow metabolism and stimulate appetite, so it should be consumed sparingly while on a weight-loss journey.

What is a Low-Calorie Alternative to a Gin and Tonic?

A gin and slimline tonic is a great alternative. By switching from regular tonic water to a sugar-free version, you can significantly reduce the calories while still enjoying the flavor profile.

What Alcoholic Drink is the Lowest in Calories?

A vodka soda made with 1.5 ounces of 80-proof vodka and club soda is one of the lowest-calorie options, containing around 82 calories. Other plain spirits with zero-calorie mixers are also top contenders.

Is Wine Lower in Calories Than Beer?

It depends on the specific type of wine and beer. A 5-ounce glass of dry wine can have fewer calories than a 12-ounce regular beer, but many light beers and hard seltzers contain fewer calories than a standard glass of wine.

Which Type of Wine Is Lowest in Calories?

Dry white wines, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, and extra brut sparkling wines like Brut Nature champagne, are generally the lowest-calorie wine options.

How Can I Reduce the Calories in My Cocktails?

Use zero-calorie mixers like soda water or diet tonic, add a splash of fresh citrus juice, and avoid sugary pre-made mixes or sodas.

Are Spirits Better for a Diet Than Beer or Wine?

When consumed straight or with zero-calorie mixers, a standard serving of spirits has fewer calories than most beers or wines. The key is to control the mixers, which can quickly add calories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What alcoholic drink has the lowest calories overall?

A vodka soda made with 1.5 ounces of 80-proof vodka and club soda is one of the lowest-calorie options, containing around 82 calories. Other plain spirits with zero-calorie mixers are also top contenders.

Is wine lower in calories than beer?

It depends on the specific type. A 5-ounce glass of dry wine can have fewer calories than a 12-ounce regular beer, but many light beers and hard seltzers contain fewer calories than a standard glass of wine.

Are spirits better for a diet than beer or wine?

When consumed straight or with zero-calorie mixers, a standard serving of spirits has fewer calories than most beers or wines. The key is to control the mixers, which can quickly add calories.

Which type of wine is lowest in calories?

Dry white wines, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, and extra brut sparkling wines like Brut Nature champagne, are generally the lowest-calorie wine options.

How can I reduce the calories in my cocktails?

Use zero-calorie mixers like soda water or diet tonic, add a splash of fresh citrus juice, and avoid sugary pre-made mixes or sodas.

Do hard seltzers have fewer calories than light beer?

Hard seltzers and light beers are often comparable in calorie count, typically falling in the 90-110 calorie range per 12-ounce serving.

What is a low-calorie alternative to a gin and tonic?

A gin and slimline tonic is a great alternative. By switching from regular tonic water to a sugar-free version, you can significantly reduce the calories while still enjoying the flavor.