cocktail swaps that satisfy

Alcoholic drinks can still fit into your healthy lifestyle! Here is some information about calorie counts and ways to save your waistline.

When it comes to wine, consider making it a spritzer! Just add a little club soda to your white wine, and you will cut calories. Sparkling wine also clocks in at fewer calories than red or white. Better yet, drink Ultra Brut champagne as it is basically the same as “no added sugar,” which means fewer calories. Plus, who doesn’t love a little bubbly?

When it comes to liquor, vodka at 100 calories a shot is the winner. Gin and tequila are close behind at 110 calories. These are just estimates, as the proof does matter. For example, 1.5oz of 80 proof gin is 97 calories, and the same size 94 proof gin is 116 calories.

Swap out the sugary tonic and sodas for club soda. To jazz it up, throw in a slice of lemon or some herbs like mint, rosemary, or basil.

Skip the processed sugar altogether and add honey, agave, or even maple syrup. You would be surprised at how many drinks contain simple syrup (basically melted sugar), even if they don’t list it on the menu. Be sure to ask your bartender if the drink contains simple syrup and then ask him to skip it or swap it for agave syrup.

Calorie counts:
Ultra Brut Champagne: 65 calories per glass.
Dry Red or White Wine: 84 to 90 calories per glass.
Vodka Soda: 96 calories per glass.
Whiskey on the Rocks: 105 calories per glass.
Bloody Mary: 125 calories per glass.
Mojito: 168 calories per glass.

TIP: Try swapping out your Margarita (500 calories) for a Paloma (166 calories). This tangy Mexican staple is made with grapefruit juice, lime juice, and seltzer. It keeps your calories low and infuses vitamins into your sip too.

Cheers!