For those who like to have a drink without too much guilt, switching between alcoholic and non-alcoholic tipples (also known as “zebra-striping”) is always the most sensible option. But if you know you’re going to indulge but want to rein in your liquid calories, it’s worth keeping a check on the most sugary and calorific culprits. For example, a small glass of eggnog has 24g of sugar and contains 200 calories compared with champagne, which is 90 calories and has just 1g of sugar.
We consulted two expert nutritionists to discover the difference between red versus mulled wine and Baileys versus brandy. The Christmas drinks to indulge in These are the five best (and fat-free) boozy options this Christmas: Clear spirits A double measure (50ml) of vodka, gin or tequila contains: 120 calories, 0g carbs, 0g sugar Clear spirits such as gin, vodka and tequila are the best Christmas party options. “These unflavoured spirits are sugar-free, which makes them a good choice when mixed with soda water and fresh lime – not tonic water, which is full of sugar,” explains Rhiannon Lambert, a nutritionist and the founder of Rhitrition.
She cautions: “Mixers like Coke, Fanta and energy drinks add a significant amount of sugar and calories to spirits.” Just 100ml of Coca-Cola could add in 42 calories and 10.6g of sugar; Red Bull a whopping 10g of sugar.
Opt for the diet versions, and if you can’t resist adding fruit juice, dilute it with water and ice. Champagne and prosecco A.
