Introduction
In the vibrant world of craft beer, one topic that often comes up is calories in alcohol. It’s essential to understand how calories contribute to our overall intake, especially for those mindful of their dietary goals and those who want to loose weight. This blog post will delve into the caloric content of various alcoholic beverages and how to make informed choices.
The Basics of Alcohol Calories
Alcohol contains seven calories per gram, which is more than carbohydrates and protein but less than fat. This high caloric content means that even a few drinks can add up quickly. Understanding the calories in different types of alcohol can help you make smarter choices.
Different drinks have varying amounts of alcohol calories, depending on their ingredients and alcohol by volume (ABV).
Beer
The calorie content in beer can vary widely. Light beers typically contain around 90-110 calories per 12 ounces, while craft beers and stouts may have 150-300 calories. The higher the ABV, the more calories a beer will have.
Wine
A glass of wine generally contains about 120-125 calories for a 5-ounce serving of red or white wine. Sweet wines and dessert wines often have more, ranging between 150-200 calories per glass.
Spirits
Spirits like vodka, whiskey, and gin have approximately 97 calories per 1.5-ounce serving. However, mixed drinks can increase the calorie count significantly due to added sugars and mixers. Read more about calories in vodka.
Why Track Alcohol Calories?
Monitoring the calories in alcohol is important, especially if you are on a calorie-controlled diet. Alcohol not only adds extra calories but can also decrease your inhibitions, leading to overeating. Knowing the caloric content can help you enjoy your drinks responsibly.
Tips for Reducing Alcohol Calories
- Choose light beers or wines with lower ABV.
- Opt for mixed drinks with low-calorie mixers like soda water instead of sugary sodas and juices.
- Measure your servings to avoid over-pouring.
- Drink water between alcoholic beverages to stay hydrated and consume fewer calories.
Summary
Understanding the calories in alcohol is crucial for making informed decisions about your drinking habits. From light beers to wine and spirits, the caloric content varies, but you can make smarter choices by selecting options with fewer calories and practicing moderation.
Cheers to your brewing journey!
