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Focus on Nutrition > Watch Out for These Holiday Spirits
Moderate consumption of alcohol can be factored into your meal plan if you make the necessary adjustments. But to do that, it helps to know how many calories are in each drink. Here's a guide to help you choose wisely this holiday season.
These libations are 300 calories (or more!) per serving due to the carbohydrates and fat from add-ins. Consider avoiding or modifying these drinks as desired to save calories.
Ice cream and heavy cream are the ingredients that make this cocktail so high in calories for a mere 4-oz. serving.
Spiking with 1½ oz. of bourbon increases calories to 390. Compare the nutrition facts label of light eggnog to determine if the calorie difference is worth it.
Limit to 2 t. sugar, 1 t. butter and 1 T. ice cream to slash about 100 calories.
At or near the 200-calorie mark, these beverages have additional carb and fat calories but are better options than the ones above.
If you prefer a spiked version, using 1 oz. of a coffee-flavored liqueur adds 90 calories. For a lighter alternative, use reduced-fat or fat-free milk.
Made with 1 oz. bourbon, 2 oz. hot water, ½ T. honey, spices and a few drops of lemon juice. Cut the honey in half to save 30 calories.
Made with ½ T. honey and spices.
With 125 calories or fewer per serving, aim to choose most of your alcoholic beverages from this list. Alcohol is the major contributor of calories in this category, with minimal calories from carbs and fat.
Note that sweeter sparkling wines, such as Moscato, are 125 calories per 5 oz. serving.
Made with 8 oz. coffee and 1½ oz. whiskey.
Many varieties of light beer are available and can vary from 55 to 125 calories per serving, so be sure to read the label.
Made with 3 oz. champagne or sparkling wine and 1 oz. orange juice.
Enjoy this light non-alcoholic drink on its own. No need for added ingredients!
This includes popular wines such as merlot and pinot grigio. Dessert wines like port, which have 190 calories per 4 oz. serving, put you back into the "Better" category.