Mixed drinks are a popular choice when socializing, but they can be high in calories. Did you know that one mixed drink can contain up to 500 calories? This can quickly add up and sabotage your weight loss efforts. However, with a few simple recipe modifications, you can still enjoy your favorite drinks without packing on the pounds. In fact, by making some of the changes below, you can slash hundreds of calories from each drink!

To begin, let's take a closer look at the nutritional information of some classic mixed drinks. For example, a Margarita can contain over 500 calories, a Long Island Iced Tea has around 800 calories, and a Piña Colada packs in a whopping 650 calories. By making smarter choices when it comes to ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious cocktail without undoing all of your hard work in the gym.

In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for modifying mixed drinks to make them healthier, lower in calories, and still enjoyable to drink.

Substitute soda water for high-calorie mixers

Many classic mixed drinks contain high-calorie mixers like fruit juices, sodas, or syrups. However, you can easily modify these drinks by replacing the high-calorie mixers with soda water. This will help to reduce the calorie content, sugar, and alcohol level of each serving. For example, instead of using sweetened cranberry juice in your vodka cranberry, try using a splash of unsweetened cranberry juice or fresh cranberry juice with soda water. As a result, you can enjoy the same delicious flavor without all the extra calories and sugar. Overall, substituting soda water for high-calorie mixers is a simple but effective way to cut down on calories without sacrificing taste.

Use fresh fruit as a natural sweetener

Another way to modify your mixed drinks is to use fresh fruit as a natural sweetener. This is a great option if you want to add sweetness without the added sugar or calories from syrups or juices. For example, you can add fresh berries, sliced citrus fruits, or tropical fruits like mango or pineapple to your drinks. Not only will this add natural sweetness, but it will also provide additional antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber to your diet. To get the most flavor and nutrition from your fresh fruit, muddle the fruit in the bottom of your glass before adding the other ingredients. This will help to release the natural juices and flavors. Overall, using fresh fruit as a natural sweetener is a healthy and delicious way to enjoy mixed drinks.

Reduce the amount of alcohol in each serving

Reducing the amount of alcohol in your mixed drinks is another way to lower the calorie count. Alcohol is high in calories, with approximately 7 calories per gram. Therefore, lowering the alcohol content of your drinks can make a big difference in the overall calorie count. To do this, try using lower alcohol by volume (ABV) spirits, using more mixers and less alcohol per serving, or swapping out some of the alcohol for soda water or juice. For example, instead of a typical gin and tonic with a 1:1 alcohol to mixer ratio, try a ratio of 2:1 with more tonic water and a splash of fresh lime juice. By reducing the amount of alcohol in each serving, you can lower the calorie count while still enjoying a refreshing and delicious drink.

Add herbs or spices for flavor without calories

Another way to modify your mixed drinks is to add herbs or spices to add flavor and depth to your drinks. This is a great option if you want to add complexity to your drinks without adding any extra calories or sweetness. For example, you can add fresh mint, basil, or rosemary to a mojito or dark and stormy. Alternatively, try adding warming spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to your hot toddy or mulled wine. Adding herbs or spices can help to elevate your drinks and make them more interesting and flavorful without adding any additional calories.

Use flavored sparkling water instead of sugary syrups

To modify your mixed drinks, consider using flavored sparkling water instead of sugary syrups or juices. This is a great option if you want to add flavor without the added sweetness and calories of traditional mixers. For example, instead of using simple syrup in your whiskey sour, try topping it off with a lime-flavored sparkling water. This will add a pop of fizz and flavor without all the added sugar. Using flavored sparkling water is a fun and creative way to modify your drinks and make them healthier and lower in calories.

Try low-calorie liquor options

To modify your mixed drinks, consider trying low-calorie liquor options. Many liquor brands now offer lighter versions of their popular spirits, which can help you to save calories without sacrificing taste. For example, you can try using a low-calorie vodka like Smirnoff Sorbet Light instead of a traditional vodka, which can help you save up to 25 calories per serving. Similarly, you can try a lower alcohol wine or beer to save on calories. Trying low-calorie liquor options is a simple but smart way to modify your drinks and make them healthier for your waistline.

Use lighter mixers like coconut water or unsweetened almond milk

If you want to add more flavor and nutrition to your mixed drinks, try using lighter mixers like coconut water or unsweetened almond milk. These options are low in calories and can add a unique flavor and nutrition profile to your drinks. For example, instead of using traditional cream or sweetened milk in your White Russian, try using unsweetened almond milk to save on calories and add a nutty flavor. Alternatively, you can use coconut water as a natural sweetener in your tropical drinks like a Mai Tai or Hurricane. Using lighter mixers like coconut water or unsweetened almond milk is a healthy and creative way to modify your drinks and make them more nutritious and flavorful.

Swap out sugar for stevia or honey

Another way to modify your mixed drinks is to swap out sugar for natural sweeteners like stevia or honey. These options are lower in calories and also provide additional health benefits. For example, instead of using sugar in your margarita, try using stevia or honey to sweeten it up. This will help to reduce the overall calorie count while still providing a sweet flavor. Additionally, honey is a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent that can support your immune system. Swapping out sugar for natural sweeteners is a simple but effective way to modify your drinks and make them healthier.

Make your own low-calorie simple syrup

Instead of using traditional simple syrup or other high-calorie mixers in your drinks, try making your own low-calorie simple syrup. This is a great option if you still want to add sweetness to your drinks without packing on the calories. To make your own low-calorie simple syrup, combine equal parts water and your natural sweetener of choice like stevia, honey, or agave nectar. Bring to a boil on the stove, stirring until the sweetener is fully dissolved. Let it cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to one month. Making your own low-calorie simple syrup is a healthier and lower calorie alternative to using traditional simple syrup or other high-calorie mixers.

Experiment with kombucha or other fermented drinks

Finally, another way to modify your mixed drinks is to experiment with kombucha or other fermented drinks. These options are low in calories and high in probiotics, making them a healthy addition to any cocktail. For example, try using kombucha instead of soda water or juice in your mixed drinks. This will add a tangy, slightly sweet flavor as well as additional probiotics to support your gut health. Alternatively, you can try adding probiotic-rich drinks like kefir or dairy-free yogurt to your drinks. Experimenting with kombucha or other fermented drinks is a fun and healthy way to modify your drinks and make them more nutritious and flavorful.