According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, we consume 76 million litres of beer each year. Splash 69 million litres of wine on top and fill it to the brim with 35 million litres of spirits and that’s more than enough alcohol to sink the ship Down Under.
However, popping to the pub with friends or family doesn’t have to be a liver damaging and calorie indulgent experience. All you need is the correct knowledge to keep drinking habits afloat. Beer, cider, wine, spirits and everything in between slows down your body’s fat burning rate in large enough quantities. But, without zapping all the fun out of the pub, there are four low calorie options you can sip on without guilt. Go ahead and have one – or two.
1. Champagne
Everyone raise your glass to the sparkling delight, champagne. Standing daintily at 376 kilojoules (90 cals) per flute it has one of the lowest calorific make-ups. Research from University of Reading, England, found that two glasses of the bubbly stuff improves heart and blood circulation. And the best bit; the cheaper the bottle the fewer kilojoules.
2. Holsten 0.0% low-cal beer
Beer is the highest consumed alcohol in Australia and our love for a few cold ones isn’t about to change anytime soon. How we approach a brew can. Choosing a Holsten 0.0% low-cal beer over a regular alcoholic bottle will see your kilojoule intake decrease from 565KJ to 165KJ (135 cals to 40 cals). Holsten 0.0% provides a source of electrolytes, antioxidants and B vitamins while rival low-cal stubby’s have more than double the amount of calories. Cheers to that.
3. Vodka, soda water and lime
Clean, crisp and low in sugar. Vodka is another low-cal alcohol, in fact all clear spirits are, and the addition of soda is a sure way to avoid a spike in sugar. A squeeze of fresh zesty lime brings a little vitamin C to the table and of course, some much needed flavour. Chin, chin.
4. Red wine
An antioxidant brimming glass of red wine is the most researched and discussed of all alcoholic drinks having been linked with multiple health benefits, including; heart health, memory improvement and lower cholesterol. The tip of the tipple? Researchers from Oregon State’s College of Agricultural Studies found that Cabernet Sauvignon has the power to delay the growth of fat cells. Wine rack here we come.