Managing Liquid Calories: What is the Lowest Calorie Spirit?

Whether it's a cocktail with your work wife after hours or a cheeky weekend nightcap after you and your hubby have put the kiddies to bed. There's no denying that a refreshing mixed drink is a craving that needs quenching for many of us ladies — one that can be hard to resist on a weight loss journey.

But who says you have to give up your favourite drink to stay on track with your health and weight loss goals? Not us! At The Lady Shake, we believe you can enjoy a drink without derailing your progress. It's all about making smarter choices. Today, we’re diving into the world of spirits to find out: What is the lowest-calorie spirit?

Liquid calories can be sneaky. Unlike solid foods, drinks don’t make you feel as full, making it easy to consume more calories than intended. Alcoholic beverages, in particular, can be calorie-dense and contribute to weight gain if not consumed mindfully.
Did you know that alcohol provides approximately 7 calories per gram? That's nearly as much as fat! These "empty calories" offer little nutritional value and can add up quickly.

Regularly drinking beverages high in sugar and alcohol content is linked with an increased risk of obesity due to the combination of high-calorie content and associated behaviour changes, like increased appetite and poorer dietary choices during and after drinking — late-night kebab runs, we're looking at you!

A systematic review highlighted that excessive alcohol consumption is a significant risk factor for weight gain. So, while enjoying a drink is part of life's pleasures, being mindful of these liquid calories is key to staying on track with your health goals.

So, you've found your go-to light white wine to enjoy with dinner and a brand of light beers that the hubby will tolerate. Nonetheless, finding mixed alcoholic drinks that are low-calorie can still feel like a bit of a minefield. Let's explore some of the lowest-calorie alcohol options that taste great and won't stall your progress.

Vodka

When it comes to the lowest-calorie spirit alcohol, vodka is the clear winner. A standard 44-ml shot of 80-proof vodka contains approximately 96 calories. Vodka is a popular choice for those watching their calorie intake because it contains no carbs, fats, or sugars—just pure ethanol and water.

Why Vodka?

• Low-Calorie Count: Vodka has fewer calories compared to other spirits. For instance, 70-proof vodka has about 85 calories per shot, while 100-proof vodka contains around 124 calories.
• Versatility: Vodka can be mixed with low-calorie mixers like soda water or diet tonic water or enjoyed neat with a splash of fresh lime juice. Pre-made vodka sodas are also an excellent, convenient option.
• Zero Carbs: Vodka is carb-free, making it a suitable option for low-carb diets.

Low-Calorie Vodka Cocktails

Here are some delightful low-calorie vodka cocktails to enjoy:

• Low-Calorie Vodka Soda: Mix around 44 ml of vodka with soda water and a squeeze of fresh citrus juice. This classic cocktail is refreshing and only about 131 calories.
• Low-Calorie Moscow Mule: Combine 44 ml of vodka with diet ginger beer and a splash of lime juice for a crisp drink at 131 calories.
• Low-Calorie Bloody Mary: Mix vodka with tomato juice, a splash of lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and spices. Garnish with celery for a savoury cocktail at 158 calories.

Other Low-Calorie Spirits

While vodka tops the list, there are other spirits that also offer low-calorie options:

Tequila

Tequila is another excellent low-calorie choice, with about 97 calories per 44 ml shot of 80-proof tequila. Like vodka, tequila contains no carbs and can be enjoyed with lime or mixed into a low-calorie cocktail.

Low-Calorie Tequila Cocktails

• Tequila Soda: Pour 44 ml of tequila over ice and mix with club soda. Add a squeeze of lime for a refreshing drink at only 128 calories.
• Skinny Margarita: For a tangy cocktail under 100 calories, mix 44 ml of tequila with lime juice, a splash of orange extract, and soda water.
• Skinny Paloma: Combine tequila with grapefruit soda and a squeeze of lime juice for a fizzy, fruity drink at around 100 calories.

Whisky

Whisky, including bourbon and scotch, typically contains around 110 calories per 44 ml shot. While slightly higher in calories than vodka and tequila, whisky can still be a part of a low-calorie diet when consumed in moderation.

Low-Calorie Whisky Cocktails

• Classic Whisky Highball: Mix whisky with soda, water, and ice for a simple, refreshing cocktail at 110 calories. 
• Old Fashioned: Combine whisky with a touch of simple syrup and bitters to enjoy this classic, popular drink at 118 calories.
• Skinny Whisky Sour: Mix whisky with lemon juice and a splash of simple syrup for a tart, refreshing drink at just over 100 calories.

Gin

Gin is comparable to vodka in terms of calorie content, with about 97 calories per 44.36 ml shot of 80-proof gin. It pairs well with diet tonic or soda water, making it a refreshing, low-calorie option.

Low-Calorie Gin Cocktails

Gin & Tonic: For a classic cocktail with 97 calories, mix gin with diet tonic water and a wedge of lime.Tom Collins: Combine gin with lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water for a refreshing drink at 122 calories.French 75: Mix gin with lemon juice and simple syrup and top with champagne for a 140-calorie bubbly cocktail.
Dry Martini: Pour 1 bar spoon of dry vermouth and 60 ml of gin into a mixing glass of ice cubes and stir until chilled. Strain into your chilled glass and garnish with skewered olives or a lemon twist for a classic martini that rounds out at around 140 calories.

To keep your liquid calories in check, consider the following tips:

• Avoid Sugary Mixers: Opt for mixers like soda water, diet tonic, or sparkling water. Avoid premade mixers with a high sugar content, i.e. syrups and fruit juices that can add unnecessary calories.
• Portion Control: Stick to standard serving sizes. A little goes a long way in keeping your calorie intake in check.
• Stay Hydrated: Alternate between an alcoholic drink and a refreshing glass of water to stay hydrated and reduce your overall alcohol consumption.
• Mind the Proof: Higher-proof spirits contain more alcohol and, consequently, more calories. Stick to 80-proof options when possible.

Now, let’s talk about keeping that diet on track beyond the occasional drink. The Lady Shake is the perfect partner in your weight loss journey. It’s designed just for women, with all the nutrients you need to thrive and far fewer calories and sugar than competitor shakes—what a win!

With the Lady Shake on your side, you won't need to worry about the occasional cocktail blowing you over your calorie deficit. And with dessert-worthy flavours like Choc Honeycomb and , taking care of your health has never felt more like a well-earned treat.

Now that you're no longer wondering what the lowest calorie spirit is, you should feel confident in the fact that enjoying a drink doesn’t have to derail your weight loss journey. You can indulge responsibly by choosing low-calorie spirits like vodka, tequila, whisky, or gin and being mindful of mixers, grams of sugar, and portion sizes.

The Lady Shake is here to support you with nutritious meal replacements and expert advice, empowering you to achieve your health goals without sacrificing life’s little pleasures. Remember, moderation is key.

Losing weight isn't always easy, but alongside The Lady Shake's community of inspiring, real, everyday women striving towards their goals, we know you can do it. Cheers, ladies; let's celebrate your progress with a guilt-free toast!