9 Low-Calorie Alcoholic Drinks for Weight Loss!

Low-Calorie Alcoholic Drinks to Enjoy Guilt-Free!

Are you trying to lose weight but don’t want to give up your favorite evening cocktail? You’re not alone. Many of us want to keep our social life alive while sticking to health goals—and the good news? You can have your drink and sip it too!

This article will explore nine low-calorie alcoholic drinks that won’t derail your fitness progress. We’ll break down what makes them better choices, give you some handy tips, and even touch on how to order smarter at the bar.

Let’s dive in!

Why Calories in Alcohol Matter

Let’s start with the basics: Alcohol is high in calories, 7 per gram, nearly as much as fat. That means even a few drinks can quickly add up, especially if you’re going for sugary mixers or high-proof cocktails. On top of that, alcohol can slow your metabolism and make you hungrier—ever notice the late-night munchies after a couple of drinks?

General Tips for Drinking While Losing Weight

Here are some quick tips to help you stay on track:

• Stay hydrated: Drink water between alcoholic beverages.
• Skip the sugar: Avoid sweetened mixers like soda or syrups.
• Know your limits. Fewer drinks = fewer calories.
• Eat before drinking. A protein-rich snack can keep cravings in check.
• Plan: Know what you’ll order before heading out.

1. Vodka Soda

Calories: Around 65-70 per serving

Why it’s a good pick: Vodka soda is the poster child of low-calorie drinks. Vodka is distilled and clean, and soda water adds zero calories. Add a squeeze of lemon or lime for flavor without any sugar.

Tip: Choose flavored vodka (like citrus or cucumber) for a kick without adding calories.

2. Light Beer

Calories: 90-110 per 12 oz

Why it’s a good pick: Not all beer is a belly-buster. Light beers have fewer carbs and calories, making them a solid choice for beer lovers.

Watch out: Just because it’s “light” doesn’t mean you can have six of them. Portion control still matters!

3. Dry Wine (Red or White)

Calories: 100-120 per 5 oz

Dry wines are lower in sugar than their sweeter cousins. Choose dry red or white wines over dessert wines or rosé if you love wine.

Pro Tip: Wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, or Cabernet Sauvignon are generally lower in sugar and calories.

4. Tequila with Lime

Calories: 65-70 per shot

Straight tequila may not sound appealing, but when you skip the sugary margarita mix and go with a slice of lime, it becomes one of the cleanest spirits out there.

Think of it like this: It’s a shot of simplicity—bold, direct, and waistline-friendly.

5. Gin and Tonic (Diet Tonic)

Calories: 65-75 with diet tonic

Regular tonic water can contain more sugar than you’d expect. Opt for a diet tonic, and you’ll get the same botanical flavor without the added calories.

Add a twist: Cucumber or mint makes it spa-fresh.

6. Skinny Mojito

Calories: 80-90 per serving

Mojitos are naturally refreshing, but the traditional version is packed with sugar. Enter the skinny mojito, made with fresh mint, lime, soda water, and a splash of rum.

Ask the bartender to hold or replace the sugar with a low-calorie sweetener like stevia.

7. Whiskey on the Rocks

Calories: 70-75 per shot

It’s a classic drink with a minimalist touch. Whiskey neat or on the rocks is pure alcohol—no mixers, no extras.

Bonus: Sipping it slowly makes sticking to just one or two drinks easier.

8. Champagne or Prosecco

Calories: 90-100 per 5 oz

Bubbly isn’t just for celebrations—it’s also one of the lighter options. Champagne and Prosecco are lower in sugar than many cocktails, and their natural effervescence means you’re more likely to sip slowly.

Perfect for brunch or a fancy night out!

9. Hard Seltzer

Calories: 90-100 per can

Hard seltzers have taken the world by storm—and for good reason. They’re light, fizzy, and flavorful, with just enough alcohol to enjoy without guilt.

Look for options with no added sugar and around 5% ABV (Alcohol by Volume) to keep calories low.

Alcohol Mixers to Avoid

Some mixers are liquid candy. Here are a few to steer clear of:

• Regular soda
• Fruit juices
• Simple syrup
• Sweetened liqueurs (like triple sec)
• Pre-mixed cocktails

Remember: even a healthy drink can be sabotaged by a sugary mixer.

Drink Smarter: Portion Sizes Matter

It’s not just what you drink but how much. A glass of wine? Great. A bottle of wine? Not so much. Stick to standard serving sizes:

• 1.5 oz of spirits
• 5 oz of wine
• 12 oz of beer

Analogy time: Think of your drink like dessert—it’s a treat, not the main course.

Social Situations: Be Prepared

Going to a party or happy hour? Planning can help you stay on track. Here’s how:

• Offer to be the designated driver.
• Bring your low-calorie options.
• Have a game plan for when (not if) peer pressure hits.

You’re not being “that person,” you’re just prioritizing your health.

Final Thoughts: Balance is Everything

Weight loss isn’t about cutting out everything you love—it’s about balance. Enjoying a drink here and there won’t sabotage your progress if you’re mindful of what you choose and how much you consume.

Next time you’re out, try one of these low-calorie alcoholic drinks and toast to your health!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I drink alcohol and still lose weight?

Yes, as long as you stay within your calorie limits and make wise choices, drinking alcohol occasionally can fit into a weight loss plan.

2. What is the best alcoholic drink for weight loss?

Vodka soda is often considered the best due to its low-calorie content and lack of sugar or carbs when mixed with soda water.

3. Are sweet wines bad for weight loss?

Sweet wines have more sugar and calories, so choosing dry wines like Pinot Grigio or Cabernet Sauvignon is better.

4. How many drinks can I have per week while dieting?

Moderation is key. One to two low-calorie drinks per week is generally okay, but it depends on your total calorie and fitness goals.

5. What can I mix with alcohol that won’t add calories?

Great options include soda water, diet tonic, lemon/lime juice, or low-calorie flavored waters.

Enjoy responsibly, and remember—it’s not about restriction; it’s about making smarter swaps that fit your lifestyle. Cheers to that! 🥂

Learn More: Exclusive Weight Loss: The Power of the 6-6-6 Walking Workout!