If you’re trying to lose weight, you might think that giving up alcohol is a good way to start. But the truth is, you don’t have to give up drinking altogether to shed pounds. By making smart choices about what you drink, you can still enjoy a cocktail or a glass of wine without sabotaging your weight loss goals. In this article, we’ll explore the best types of alcohol for weight loss and provide tips on how to make healthy choices.
Understanding the Calories in Alcohol
Alcohol is high in calories, which is why it can be a problem when you’re trying to lose weight. A typical 12-ounce beer contains around 150 calories, while a glass of wine can have up to 200 calories. Mixed drinks, like margaritas and piña coladas, are even more caloric and can have anywhere from 300 to 500 calories per serving.
The Best Types of Alcohol for Weight Loss
While alcohol can be a calorie bomb, some types of alcohol are better for weight loss than others. Here are some of the best options:
Champagne and Sparkling Wine
Champagne and sparkling wine are a great option if you’re looking to indulge in a celebratory drink. They’re typically low in calories, with a standard glass containing around 80-100 calories.
Vodka
Vodka is a clear spirit that’s low in calories and carbs, making it a good choice for weight loss. A 1.5-ounce serving of vodka contains around 97 calories and zero carbs.
Gin
Gin is another clear spirit that’s low in calories and carbs, with a 1.5-ounce serving containing around 97 calories and zero carbs.
Tequila
Tequila is made from the agave plant and is a good option for weight loss because it’s low in calories and carbs. A 1.5-ounce serving of tequila contains around 97 calories and zero carbs.
Light Beer
If you’re a beer drinker, opt for light beer instead of regular beer. Light beers have fewer calories and carbs than regular beers, with a 12-ounce serving containing around 100 calories.
Tips for Making Healthy Choices
When it comes to drinking and weight loss, it’s all about moderation and making smart choices. Here are some tips to help you make healthy choices:
Watch Your Portion Sizes
Stick to one or two servings of alcohol per day and watch your portion sizes. A standard serving size is 1.5 ounces of hard liquor, 5 ounces of wine, or 12 ounces of beer.
Choose Low-Calorie Mixers
Avoid sugary mixers like soda and juice, which can add hundreds of calories to your drink. Instead, opt for low-calorie mixers like soda water, tonic water, or a splash of citrus juice.
Stay Hydrated
Alcohol can dehydrate you, so make sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after you drink.
Plan Ahead
If you know you’re going to be drinking, plan ahead by eating a healthy meal beforehand and making sure you have a safe ride home.
Conclusion
Losing weight doesn’t mean you have to give up alcohol altogether. By making smart choices about what you drink and following these tips, you can still enjoy a cocktail or a glass of wine without sabotaging your weight loss goals.
FAQs
- Is it possible to lose weight while drinking alcohol?
- Yes, it’s possible to lose weight while drinking alcohol by making smart choices about what you drink and watching your portion sizes.
- How many calories are in a standard glass of wine?
- A standard glass of wine contains around 120-150 calories, depending on the type of wine.
- Can I still enjoy mixed drinks while trying to lose weight?
- Yes, you can still enjoy mixed drinks, but be mindful of the mixers you use. Choose low-calorie options like soda water or a splash of citrus juice.
- Can I drink alcohol every day and still lose weight?
- Drinking alcohol every day can make it harder to lose weight, but it’s possible to do so in moderation. Stick to one or two servings of alcohol per day and make sure to watch your portion sizes.
- Are there any types of alcohol I should avoid if I’m trying to lose weight?
- You should avoid sugary, high-calorie drinks like margaritas and piña coladas, as well as heavy beers and sweet wines. Stick to clear spirits like vodka and gin, or light beer and champagne.