You Don't Have to Give Up Booze to Lose Weight — Here's Exactly What to Drink

With Spring weddings and warmer weather just around the corner, open bars and refreshing, poolside drinks are bound to make an entrance.

But you've made these huge strides in your health journey by incorporating veggies, healthy fats, and lean proteins into your diet. Are those drinks going to set you back?

If your goal is to lose weight and stay healthy, then the best thing to do is abstain from drinking alcohol because it lacks nutrients and can get in the way of weight loss. But if you're going to drink, try to stick to these healthier options that are low in calories, sugar, and carbs.

• Straight, unflavored liquors (vodka, tequila, whiskey): A standard shot (1.5 oz.) of straight, unflavored 80-proof liquor is about 100 calories. But keep in mind: the higher the proof, the higher the calories. The great thing about taking a shot of liquor or having a drink on the rocks is that these liquors contain no carbs or sugar! If drinking liquor straight doesn't sound appealing, try adding in a squeeze of lemon, lime, or other fresh-squeezed (no-sugar-added) juice.
• Champagne: Thankfully, an occasional celebratory glass of bubbly isn't a major step back in our weight-loss goals. A 4-ounce glass of Brut varietals contains about 90 calories, 1.6 grams of carbs, and less than a gram of sugar, making it a great choice for a night out (or in!).
• Red Wine: A typical 5-ounce glass of red wine comes in at around 125 calories, 4 grams of carbs, and about a gram of sugar, depending on which variety is consumed. Although a bit more calorie-dense than straight liquor and Champagne, wine made the list due to its health benefits. While one glass a day can help you stay on track with your weight-loss goals, more than that may hinder them.

So next time you're face to face with that dapper bartender, remember which drinks to order and that moderation is key.