When you are watching your diet and either trying to lose or maintain your weight, it’s important to note that alcoholic beverages can do more harm than others. Some drinks are higher in calories while others can be enjoyed without upsetting your diet too much.

Quantity

The number one point to consider is how much you consume. It should go without saying that one drink will not do as much harm to your calorie count as multiple drinks would be. It’s also not about how much you drink in one evening, but rather how much you consume on a weekly basis. So, even if you only drink one glass each night, it can add up in the end.

Calories in different beverages

Different alcoholic beverages have different numbers of calories. A 5 ounce glass of white or red wine contains 100 calories. 1.5 ounces of vodka or whisky contains 104 calories but, unlike wine, it does not contain carbohydrates. 12 ounces of light beer contains 108 calories along with 6 grams of carbohydrates while draft beer contains 144 calories and 13.2 grams of carbohydrates! So, as you can see, it’s not just about the calories, but also the carbohydrates in the beverage.

Cocktails

Apart from the alcoholic beverages themselves, you also need to consider what you choose to mix them with. Spirits are better for those on a diet but, if you mix them with soda, it will certainly push that calorie count up. Not to mention all the sugar. Cocktails are known for being particularly high in calories. A Cosmopolitan contains 213 calories, a Mojito has 240 calories and a Pina Colada has 245 calories. So, as luxurious and delicious as they are, you might need to consider your entire calorie intake for the day before you indulge.

Finally, don’t forget about the importance of what you eat along with your alcoholic beverages. Many beer lovers enjoy different types of snacks like crisps and nuts. Each handful can push up your daily calorie count quite significantly. Instead, you should consider enjoying a fulfilling meal before you have a drink. This will ensure that you don’t snack too much and you will not feel the need to drink as much either.