Alcohol is a source of calories, but it's not always clear just how many calories you're consuming when you drink. Alcohol provides seven calories per gram, which is more than carbohydrates and protein, but fewer than fat. Those calories can add up quickly, so it's important to track your intake when you're trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet.
How Many Calories Does Alcohol Contain?
Alcohol is a macronutrient, just like carbohydrates, protein, and fat. It contains seven calories per gram, which is more than carbohydrates and protein, but fewer than fat. That means that a 12-ounce beer, which contains about 5% alcohol, contains about 85 calories from alcohol alone.
When it comes to other alcoholic beverages, the calorie content will vary depending on the type and serving size. For instance, a 4-ounce glass of wine contains about 85 calories, while a 1.5-ounce shot of whiskey contains about 105 calories. Mixed drinks can contain even more calories, depending on the ingredients used.
Alcohol and Weight Loss
Consuming alcohol can make it more difficult to lose weight. Alcoholic beverages are high in both calories and sugar, which can lead to weight gain if consumed in excess. Additionally, alcohol can interfere with the body's ability to metabolize fat, which can make it harder to shed excess pounds.
Furthermore, drinking can lead to overeating, as alcohol can impair judgement and increase cravings for unhealthy foods. For these reasons, it's best to limit your alcohol intake if you're trying to lose weight.
How to Limit Your Alcohol Intake
If you're trying to limit your alcohol intake, there are a few things you can do. First, make sure to track your alcohol consumption and stay mindful of how many calories you're consuming. Secondly, try to opt for lower-calorie options like light beers and wine spritzers. Finally, alternate alcoholic beverages with water or soda water to stay hydrated and cut down on calories.
Alcohol and Health Benefits
Despite its high calorie content, alcohol can also have some health benefits. Studies have found that moderate alcohol consumption can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Additionally, alcohol can increase levels of HDL (the "good" cholesterol) and reduce inflammation.
However, any potential health benefits of alcohol must be weighed against the risks of excessive drinking. Heavy alcohol consumption can increase the risk of certain cancers and can cause liver damage.
Bottom Line
Alcohol provides seven calories per gram, which can quickly add up. If you're trying to lose weight, it's best to limit your alcohol intake. However, moderate drinking may also have some health benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in a glass of wine?
A 4-ounce glass of wine contains about 85 calories.
Is it possible to drink alcohol and still lose weight?
Yes, it is possible to drink alcohol and still lose weight, but it's important to track your intake and opt for lower-calorie options. Additionally, it's best to alternate alcoholic beverages with water or soda water.
How much alcohol is considered moderate drinking?
Moderate drinking is defined as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.
What are the health benefits of moderate drinking?
The health benefits of moderate drinking may include reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, as well as increased levels of HDL (the "good" cholesterol) and reduced inflammation.
What are the risks of excessive drinking?
Excessive drinking can increase the risk of certain cancers and can cause liver damage.
Does alcohol contain more calories than carbohydrates or protein?
Yes, alcohol contains more calories than carbohydrates or protein. It contains seven calories per gram, which is more than carbohydrates and protein, but fewer than fat.
Can drinking alcohol lead to weight gain?
Yes, drinking alcohol can lead to weight gain. Alcoholic beverages are high in both calories and sugar, which can lead to weight gain if consumed in excess. Additionally, alcohol can interfere with the body's ability to metabolize fat, which can make it harder to shed excess pounds.
How can I limit my alcohol intake?
If you're trying to limit your alcohol intake, make sure to track your alcohol consumption and stay mindful of how many calories you're consuming. Additionally, try to opt for lower-calorie options like light beers and wine spritzers, and alternate alcoholic beverages with water or soda water.
What are the dangers of underage drinking?
Underage drinking can have serious consequences, including increased risk of injury, sexual assault, alcohol poisoning, and addiction. Additionally, underage drinking can interfere with physical and mental development, and can lead to poor academic performance.
Can drinking alcohol have any health benefits?
Yes, studies have found that moderate alcohol consumption can have some health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, as well as increasing levels of HDL (the "good" cholesterol) and reducing inflammation.
What is a low-calorie alcoholic beverage?
A low-calorie alcoholic beverage is one that contains fewer calories than other alcoholic beverages. Examples of low-calorie alcoholic beverages include light beers, wine spritzers, and vodka with soda water.
Does alcohol affect blood sugar levels?
Yes, alcohol can affect blood sugar levels. Drinking alcohol can cause a temporary spike in blood sugar levels, and can also interfere with the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels.
How does alcohol affect the liver?
Heavy alcohol consumption can lead to liver damage, including fatty liver disease, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis. Additionally, alcohol can interfere with the body's ability to metabolize nutrients and can lead to vitamin deficiencies.
Does drinking alcohol raise or lower blood pressure?
Alcohol can raise blood pressure in the short-term, but long-term studies have found that moderate drinking can actually lower blood pressure. However, any potential benefits must be weighed against the risks of excessive drinking.
Can drinking alcohol cause dehydration?
Yes, drinking alcohol can cause dehydration. Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it increases urine production and can lead to dehydration. For this reason, it's important to drink plenty of water when consuming alcohol.