Are you looking to enjoy a refreshing vodka drink without consuming too many calories? You're in luck because there are plenty of low calorie vodka options available to satisfy your cravings without sabotaging your healthy lifestyle. Vodka is often considered a go-to choice for dieters, as it typically carries fewer calories than many other alcoholic options and has zero carbs.
When it comes to selecting the best low calorie vodka, a few key brands lead the pack. Some popular options include Grey Goose Essences, Ketel One Botanical Vodka, and Absolut Elyx. By choosing these or other similar low calorie vodkas to mix into your favorite cocktails or simply enjoy on the rocks, you can indulge in guilt-free pleasure.
So, next time you're planning a night out or hosting a gathering, remember that low calorie vodka options can be your best friends, allowing you to maintain your healthy lifestyle while still enjoying a delicious, refreshing drink. Explore the available brands to find the perfect fit for your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Lowest Calorie Vodka Brands
Absolut Vodka
Absolut Vodka is a well-known Swedish brand that offers a low-calorie option for your cocktails. With around 96 calories per 1.5-ounce shot, you can enjoy this vodka guilt-free. Absolut also offers a variety of flavored vodkas, which maintain a similar calorie count while adding a twist to your drinks.
Equality Vodka
Equality Vodka, a US brand, is a smooth and refreshing low-calorie choice. With approximately 96 calories per shot, it's right in line with other low calorie vodkas. You can confidently add this vodka to your repertoire without worrying about your waistline.
Belvedere Vodka
Belvedere Vodka, produced in Poland, is another great option for those watching their calorie intake. It contains around 96 calories per standard shot, making it a suitable addition to your low-calorie vodka list. This premium vodka offers a clean, crisp taste that won't compromise your diet.
Smirnoff Vodka
Smirnoff Vodka is an iconic brand with a low-calorie option. With about 96 calories per shot, this vodka allows you to indulge without feeling guilty. Smirnoff also offers flavored vodkas like their Citrus Vodka, which has slightly fewer calories with 87 per shot.
Grey Goose Vodka
Grey Goose, a French vodka, is another low-calorie option with around 96 calories per shot. Known for its smooth and luxurious taste, this vodka adds a touch of elegance to your cocktails without causing calorie-related concerns.
Ketel One Botanical Vodka
Ketel One offers a unique low-calorie vodka with their Botanical Vodka line. At only 73 calories per 1.5-ounce serving, these 70 proof vodkas come in various flavors and provide the perfect guilt-free option for your drinks.
Cîroc Vodka
Cîroc Snap Frost Vodka is a French brand that is both low in calories and gluten-free. With around 96 calories per shot, it's another option for those who want to enjoy their vodka without worrying about calorie content.
Svedka Vodka
Svedka, a Swedish vodka brand, also offers a low-calorie option. Like many others on this list, it comes in at around 96 calories per 1.5-ounce shot. Svedka provides a reliable, budget-friendly choice for those looking to maintain calorie awareness in their cocktails.
Stolichnaya Vodka
Stolichnaya, or Stoli, is a famous Russian vodka brand with a low-calorie option. A standard 1.5-ounce shot contains approximately 96 calories, making it another brand you can enjoy without fretting over your caloric intake.
Tito's Vodka
Tito's Handmade Vodka, an American brand, is a low calorie vodka like their 80 proof counterparts. With around 96 calories per shot, you can add Tito's to your list of guilt-free vodkas that won't add unnecessary calories to your favorite drinks.
Low Calorie Vodka Mixers
When you're looking for a way to enjoy vodka without feeling guilty about consuming too many calories, consider these low-calorie mixers to complement your drink:
Club Soda
Club soda is an excellent choice for a low-calorie mixer, as it has no calories, no sugar, and no artificial sweeteners. It adds a refreshing fizz to your vodka, and you can enhance the flavor with a squeeze of lemon or lime. Here is a simple recipe:
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 4 oz club soda
- Lemon or lime wedge (optional)
Pour the vodka and club soda into a glass filled with ice, stir gently, and garnish with a lemon or lime wedge if desired.
Diet Tonic Water
Diet tonic water can be another great option for mixing with vodka. It typically contains fewer calories than regular tonic water due to the use of artificial sweeteners. To create a low-calorie vodka tonic, follow this recipe:
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 4 oz diet tonic water
- Lime wedge (optional)
Combine the vodka and diet tonic water in a glass filled with ice, stir lightly, and garnish with a lime wedge if you like.
Seltzer
Seltzer (also known as sparkling water) is another calorie-free mixer that works well with vodka. It provides a light and bubbly texture to your drink. To make a simple vodka seltzer, use this recipe:
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 4 oz seltzer
- Fruit or citrus slice (optional)
In a glass filled with ice, pour the vodka and seltzer, stir gently, and add a slice of fruit or citrus for garnish if desired.
In conclusion, club soda, diet tonic water, and seltzer are all excellent low-calorie mixers to pair with your vodka. These options allow you to enjoy your drink while still being mindful of your calorie intake.
Low Calorie Alcoholic Drinks
If you're looking for low calorie alcoholic options, you're in the right place. In this section, we'll explore some popular cocktails that can help you enjoy your night out without jeopardizing your weight loss efforts.
Vodka Soda
A Vodka Soda is a classic low calorie alcoholic drink made with vodka and soda water. It's a straightforward, refreshing option that typically contains around 96 calories per serving, depending on the brand of vodka you choose. Here are a few low calorie vodka options:
- Grey Goose Essences
- Ketel One Botanical Vodka
- Absolut Vodka
- Tito's Handmade Vodka
To make your Vodka Soda, just mix 1.5 oz of your chosen vodka with soda water in a glass filled with ice. Add a splash of lime juice for extra flavor.
Vodka Martini
A Vodka Martini is another great low calorie alcoholic drink, typically containing around 120 calories per serving. To make a Vodka Martini, you'll need:
- 1.5 oz vodka (preferably one of the low calorie options mentioned above)
- 0.5 oz dry vermouth
- Ice
- An olive or lemon twist for garnish
Simply combine the vodka and vermouth in a mixing glass filled with ice, stir well, and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with either an olive or a lemon twist, according to your preference.
Gin and Tonic
While gin is not vodka, a Gin and Tonic can also be a refreshing low calorie option, clocking in at around 120 calories per serving. To create this classic cocktail, you'll need:
- 1.5 oz gin
- 3 oz sugar-free or slimline tonic water
- Ice
- A slice of lime for garnish
Fill a glass with ice, add the gin, and top with tonic water. Stir gently and garnish with a slice of lime.
Tequila and Lime
Tequila and lime make for a simple and low calorie combination, with one shot of tequila containing around 64 calories. Keep in mind that this combination is meant to be sipped, not shot. Here's what you'll need:
- 1.5 oz tequila (choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor)
- A wedge of lime
Pour your tequila into a glass, and simply squeeze in the juice from the lime wedge. Adjust the amount of lime according to your taste preference.
In this section, we've provided you with four low calorie alcoholic drink options, so you can enjoy a night out without worrying about sabotaging your weight loss efforts. Try out a Vodka Soda, Vodka Martini, Gin and Tonic, or Tequila and Lime the next time you're in the mood for a cocktail.
Low Calorie Vodka Ingredients
Lemon
Lemon-infused vodka offers a refreshing, light flavor that enhances your cocktails without significantly increasing the calorie count. You can achieve this by adding freshly-squeezed lemon juice or lemon zest to your drinks, or try a pre-made lemon-flavored vodka. Remember to watch the portion size, as too much lemon can increase the acidity of your drink.
Lime
Similar to lemon, lime adds a bright, energizing flavor to your vodka and won't contribute many calories. You can incorporate lime by adding fresh juice or zest, or trying a lime-infused vodka. Lime is versatile and pairs well with other low-calorie ingredients, so feel free to experiment with different combinations.
Cucumber
Cucumber is a fantastic low-calorie ingredient that adds a crisp, clean flavor to your vodka beverages. It also provides a hint of natural sweetness without adding any significant calories. To include cucumber in your drinks, simply muddle a few slices and add them to a glass with vodka and ice.
Mint
Mint imparts a cooling sensation and subtle sweetness to your vodka drinks without adding many calories. Muddle fresh mint leaves at the bottom of your glass before adding vodka, ice, and desired mixers. Mint pairs particularly well with cucumber, lime, and lemon for refreshing low-calorie vodka cocktails.
Rosemary
Rosemary brings a sophisticated, herbaceous note to your vodka beverages without increasing the calorie count. You can use fresh rosemary sprigs as a garnish, infuse your vodka with rosemary by letting a few sprigs steep in the alcohol for a day or two, or muddle the leaves in the bottom of the glass with your other ingredients.
Basil
Basil is another low-calorie herb that can add a unique flavor dimension to your vodka. Basil imparts a fresh, peppery taste that complements vodka and other low-calorie ingredients. You can muddle fresh basil leaves at the bottom of your glass, infuse your vodka, or use basil as a garnish for an eye-catching, low-calorie drink.
Selecting the Right Vodka
When choosing a low-calorie vodka, there are several factors you should consider including its proof, distillation process, and whether it is flavored or not, to ensure you're making an informed decision.
Proof
The proof of a vodka has a direct impact on its calorie content. The higher the proof, the more calories it contains. Look for vodkas with lower proof levels, as these will have fewer calories per serving. For instance, a vodka with a proof of 80 (40% ABV) is likely to have around 97 calories per 1.5 oz (44 ml) serving.
Distillation Process
Vodkas that have undergone multiple distillations can have less impurities and a smoother taste. Some brands that promote clean and smooth taste profiles, which may result in lower calorie content, include:
- Grey Goose Essences
- Equality Vodka
- Ketel One Botanical Vodka
- Absolut Elyx
- Smirnoff No. 21 Vodka
- Grey Goose Vodka
- Crystal Head
- Ciroc Snap Frost Vodka
- Tito's Handmade Vodka
- Absolut Vodka
- Stoli Vodka
- Belvedere Vodka
Flavored Vodkas
Many vodka brands offer flavored options, which can either increase or decrease the vodka's calorie count. Flavored vodkas infused with natural botanicals or lower sugar content may contain fewer calories than their non-flavored counterparts. Conversely, vodkas containing sweeteners or artificial flavors can have a higher calorie content.
Some low-calorie flavored vodka options are:
- Ketel One Botanical Vodka: With flavors such as Grapefruit & Rose, and Cucumber & Mint, this vodka has 73 calories per 1.5 oz (44 ml) serving.
- Grey Goose Essences: Available in flavors like Strawberry & Lemongrass and Pineapple & Sage, these vodkas contain fewer calories than Grey Goose's original offering.
In conclusion, be sure to consider proof, distillation process, and flavored options when selecting a low-calorie vodka. By keeping these factors in mind, you can make an informed choice and enjoy your favorite vodka drinks without compromising your health goals.
Health Implications
Weight Loss Factors
When considering weight loss, choosing low-calorie vodka can be beneficial. On average, one 1oz (30ml) shot of vodka has significantly below 100 calories. Your choice of vodka plays a part in managing calorie intake, especially if you are aiming for weight loss.
- Low-calorie vodka helps minimize the overall calorie count in your diet.
- Drinking alcohol in moderation can steer cravings and weight gain.
Alcohol and the Liver
It's crucial to understand the impact of alcohol on your liver. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to various liver-related issues, such as fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver failure.
- Moderate alcohol intake is essential for maintaining liver function.
- Low-calorie vodka may be a better choice for those looking to reduce overall alcohol consumption.
Carbohydrates and Fiber
Vodka is a low-carb and zero-fiber alcoholic beverage, making it suitable for dieters following low-carb plans like the Paleo or ketogenic diets.
- Vodka contains zero carbohydrates and zero fiber.
- This feature makes vodka a popular choice for those on low-carb diets.
In summary, low-calorie vodka can be a better option for those looking to manage weight, maintain liver health, and adhere to low-carb dietary guidelines. However, it's essential to remember that moderation is key when consuming alcohol, and individual health factors should always be taken into account.
Nutrients in Vodka
Vitamins and Minerals
When it comes to vitamins and minerals, vodka has a minimal profile. This is because vodka is made mainly from ethanol and water, which do not provide any significant amounts of vitamins or minerals. So, while enjoying vodka, you should not expect any contribution to your daily dietary requirements for micronutrients.
Protein
You might be wondering if vodka contains any protein. The answer is no. Vodka does not contain proteins, as it is solely made from ethanol and water. As a result, vodka is not a source of protein when you incorporate it into your diet.
Glucose
Let's talk about glucose content in vodka. Vodka has zero glucose or sugar in its composition. This is due to the simple nature of its ingredients - ethanol and water. Consequently, vodka is often considered a low-calorie alcoholic option in comparison to other beverages that may contain added sugars.
Remember, while vodka is considered a low-calorie alcohol option, it doesn't negate the fact that consuming alcohol in excessive amounts can be harmful to your health. Moderation is key when it comes to any form of alcohol consumption, and as always, you should drink responsibly.
Low Calorie Vodka Alternatives
Light Beer
If you're looking for a low calorie alternative to vodka, consider trying light beer. Many light beers contain fewer calories than traditional beers, making them a better choice when watching your calorie intake. Some popular light beer options include:
- Bud Light: 110 calories per 12 oz
- Miller Lite: 96 calories per 12 oz
- Coors Light: 102 calories per 12 oz
Remember that the calorie content can vary among different brands, so always check the label on the bottle or can for accurate information.
Wine
Another option for a lower calorie alcoholic beverage is wine. While it can vary depending on the type and serving size, many wines offer fewer calories compared to some mixed vodka drinks. Here are some examples of wine types and their average calorie content per 5 oz serving:
- White wine: 120-130 calories
- Red wine: 125-130 calories
- Rosé wine: 120-125 calories
Opting for a wine spritzer, which is a combination of wine and club soda, can help further reduce your calorie intake.
Champagne
Champagne and sparkling wines can also serve as a lower calorie alternative to vodka. These beverages tend to have fewer calories than some mixed vodka beverages, offering a lighter choice for celebrations and social events. A standard 4 oz serving of champagne typically contains around 90-100 calories.
Remember that moderation is key when consuming alcohol, no matter which option you choose. Always drink responsibly and stay mindful of your calorie intake.
Additional Tips
Avoid Sugary Mixers
When it comes to keeping your vodka-based drinks low in calories, it's important to avoid using sugary mixers. Instead of reaching for juices, sodas, or lemonades that are high in calories and sugar content, consider using healthier alternatives. Some options include:
- Club soda: This is a calorie-free and sugar-free mixer that keeps your drink light and refreshing.
- Tonic water: Though it has a slightly bitter taste, combining it with vodka can create an enjoyable beverage with less sugar than traditional mixers.
- Fresh fruit: Muddle some berries or citrus fruits to add fruity flavors to your drink without adding too many calories.
Monitor Portion Sizes
It's easy to lose track of how much you're consuming, especially when it comes to alcoholic beverages. To help control calories in your vodka drinks, be mindful of the portion sizes:
- Opt for a standard shot, which is 1.5 ounces (44ml).
- Mix your vodka with a low-calorie mixer in a single serving glass, as it can help limit the amount you consume.
- If you're enjoying a cocktail that includes multiple servings of alcohol, such as a vodka and whiskey mixed drink, be cognizant of the total alcohol content and try to limit yourself to one serving.
By implementing these tips in your drinking habits, you can enjoy your vodka cocktails with fewer calories and minimize the impact on your health and waistline.