Cocktails, Wine & Beer: A Discussion

Tara Tomaino, RD

T&B Nutrition Director

Alcohol by itself contains 7 calories/gram. In comparison, protein and carbohydrates both contain 4 calories/gram while fat contains 9 calories/gram. Calories in alcoholic drinks can add up fast in a few different ways: 1) If you are consuming shots of alcohol in quick succession 2) If you are consuming drinks mixed with a high-calorie or high-sugar mixer 3) Due to the effects of social pressure or the alcohol itself, you may end up drinking more than anticipated.

Alcohol contributes to weight gain not only from the calories in beverages themselves, but because of the food you may consume while drinking or afterward. If people drink socially they may be eating out at a restaurant or bar, celebrating a holiday, or attending a party. All of these occasions may present food options that are higher in fat, sugar, and calories than most foods prepared at home. Not to mention, alcohol acts as an appetite stimulant which may prompt someone to binge on snack foods or convenience foods like nachos or pizza (AKA “drunk eat”) at the end of the night. Decision making capabilities may also be impaired after drinking leading to unhealthier food choices.
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Mixed drinks containing soda, juice, or sugary mixers all contribute to the calorie content of a drink. These calories may be overlooked or not accounted for if they are drank and not eaten. If you are watching your weight and monitoring your calorie consumption, it is important to account for alcohol intake.

1. To make a low-calorie cocktail, stick to calorie-free mixers like club soda or flavored seltzer water. You can add a squeeze of fresh citrus from lemons, limes, or oranges to add an extra hint of flavor. Avoid syrups or added sweeteners if you can!
2. Low Calorie Drinks
   1. Vodka Soda – mix 1.5 oz of vodka (Tito’s has 98 calories per 1.5 oz) with club soda (0 calories), and a squeeze of lime. Total calories = 98.
   2. Champagne – 4 oz. has about 78-90 calories.
   3. Mojito – In a glass, mix 2 tablespoons of lime juice with 2 teaspoons of sugar until dissolved. Add ¼ cup crushed ice then tear a small handful of mint leaves and add to the glass, stir for about 15 seconds. Add ¼ cup of white rum, 2 tablespoons of club soda, and ¾ cup of crushed ice. This cocktail comes to about 168 calories.
   4. Paloma – In a glass combine ¼ cup of grapefruit juice, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and 1 teaspoon of sugar, stir until the sugar is dissolved. Stir in ¼ cup of mescal or tequila and add ice. Then top with ¼ cup of club soda and garnish with a grapefruit wedge! 166 calories.