Date night, girl’s night out, a promotion – all occasions sure to have you reaching for a delicious cocktail. Only, if you’re watching your waistline, along with enjoying a tasty libation (or two) comes the gut guilt.
Fortunately for us, the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans has provided us with a few “pre-game” pointers.
Women should consume no more than one drink per day. Meanwhile, men can consume up to two drinks per day – that is, if they choose to drink at all.
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According to the dietary guidelines, “one alcoholic drink equivalent is defined as containing 14 grams (0.6 fluid oz.) of pure alcohol. The following are reference beverages that are one alcoholic drink equivalent: 12 fluid ounces of regular beer (5% alcohol), 5 fluid ounces of wine (12% alcohol), or 1.5 fluid ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits (40% alcohol). Drink-equivalents are not intended to serve as a standard drink definition for regulatory purposes.”
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Now, when it comes to selecting your poison, avoid anything loaded with sugar, including:
Margaritas
Loaded with a heavy dose of those sweet cane crystals, this festive drink can range from 600 calories and above per serving. Have one or two and you can see how the calories add up – real quick!
White Russian
Created with heavy cream, coffee-flavored liqueur, and vodka of course, this tasty cocktail is close to 500 calories per serving.
Spiked eggnog
This holiday favorite made from eggs, sugar and cream – plus a spike of liquor – can rack up about 450 calories per serving.
Instead, opt for…
Mulled wine
Made with red wine along with various low-calorie herbs, aka mulling spices, this hot toddy adds up to around 227 calories per serving.
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Sangria
What’s more refreshing than wine mixed with fresh fruits? Not only are you getting a healthy helping of antioxidants but your calorie count sits nicely at 115-260 calories (depending on whether you use fruit juice and/or sugar).
Champagne cocktail
Many combos of fruit and champagne can keep calories in check thanks to the champagne glass, which only holds 6 fluid ounces. Ordering a champagne drink is a perfect way to adhere to portion control.
Of course, your drink selection is just a starting point. Also important? When you consume also plays a major role in keeping alcohol calories at bay.
Before ordering, eat first. If you don't, you may feel tipsy more quickly and be less likely to make healthy decisions when it comes to that wallet!
Hydrate. Take a break in between sips and sip a glass of water. This will help you slow your pace.
Lastly, ask for small glasses as well as your drink “on the rocks.” The ice leaves less room for alcohol calories, so you can enjoy it without all the sipping shame.
