The Skinny on Suds: Which Beer Has Less Calories?

If you love beer, you probably know that it’s not the healthiest beverage in the world. Apart from the fact that it’s high in carbs, it’s also known to have a lot of calories which can wreck your diet plans. But, there’s good news! Not all beers are made equal in terms of calorie count. Some types of beer can actually fit your fitness regime, too.

In this article, we’ll explore which beer has fewer calories, the beer styles you can opt for, as well as some alternatives if you’re not a beer lover.

What are calories in beer?

Calories are a measure of energy, and everything we eat and drink contains them. When it comes to beer, calories mostly come from alcohol and carbs. Alcohol has about seven calories per gram, while carbs have four calories per gram. But, keep in mind that these numbers aren’t set in stone, as the actual calorie count can vary accordingly.

Which beer has fewer calories?

If you’re looking for a low calorie beer, the best bet is to go for light beers. Light beers are brewed to contain fewer calories than regular beers, with less alcohol and carbs. Here are a few examples:

1. American Light Lagers:

These beers are perhaps the most widely known low calorie beer options in the US market, with staple brands such as Bud Light, Michelob Ultra, or Coors Light. These beers have an average calorie count of around 100 calories per 12-ounce serving.

2. European Lagers:

European lagers are generally lighter than American and British lagers and can offer similar calorie counts. Brands such as Beck’s Light and Amstel Light can have less than 100 calories per 12-ounce serving.

3. Guinness:

While dark beers aren’t typically associated with low calorie content, Guinness is an exception to the norm. A serving of Guinness has only about 125 calories, but remember that it does have more carbs than other low calorie beers.

4. Non-alcoholic beers:

If you want to cut down on alcohol and calories, non-alcoholic beers are a great alternative. They usually have around 60-70 calories per serving and can be a good choice if you’re looking for a healthier option.

Is there a trade-off between taste and calorie count?

While light beers might offer fewer calories, they can sometimes lack flavor. So, if you’re someone who enjoys a full-bodied beer, you might want to consider other alternative beers that can be healthier without compromising on taste.

1. IPAs:

India Pale Ales are a great alternative to regular beers. They have a distinct taste and aroma, and are brewed with fewer carbs and calories than traditional ales.

2. Sours:

Sours are brewed with a sour mash and offer a refreshing change of pace from the typical malt forward beers. They are low in carbs and calories and can be a good option if you’re looking for something slightly different.

3. Light versions of classics:

Many classic beers now come in a light version, such as Heineken Light or Corona Light. These beers offer a toned-down version of their original beer without compromising too much on flavor.

Final Thoughts

Beer can be a part of a healthy lifestyle, but choosing the right beer can be overwhelming. Low calorie and low carb beer options are available in the market, and with the rise of craft breweries, the options have only gotten better. You can still enjoy beer while maintaining a healthier lifestyle by keeping an eye out for the calorie count and opting for light or alternative styles.

FAQs

1. How many calories does a regular beer have?

A regular beer can have anywhere from 120 to 250 calories, depending on the brand, size, and type of beer.

2. Are light beers the only option for low calorie beer?

No, there are a few alternative styles of beer such as IPAs and sours that are low in calories without compromising on flavor.

3. Can non-alcoholic beer be a healthy option?

Non-alcoholic beer can be a healthy option as they are low in alcohol and calories, and have almost the same flavor as their alcoholic counterparts.