According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, alcoholic beverages vary in their calorie content based on the type of alcohol and any additional beverages that are mixed into the drink. Drinkers should be aware of caloric intake and limit their drinking accordingly.
Types
Calories in alcoholic drinks differ according to the type of alcohol that is consumed. According to the NIAAA, liquor and wine tend to be lower in calories, with an average of 95 calories per serving. Beer averages approximately 140 calories per serving. The serving size is important as liquor has a serving size of just one and a half ounces, while wine has a serving size of five ounces, and beer measures at twelve ounces per serving.
Considerations
The University of Rochester notes that alcoholic drinks that are mixed with several beverages, such as cocktails, can be very high in calories. Some mixed drinks that contain juices can average up to 250 calories per six ounce serving. Liqueurs, which are distilled spirits mixed with sugars and added flavors, often have an average of 188 calories per serving.
Tips
Consumers of alcohol can control their caloric intake by selecting lower calorie options, such as distilled spirits mixed with carbonated water or diet sodas. The University of Rochester also suggests that drinkers should try to alternate between alcoholic drinks and low calorie options such as diet soda or water.
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