Vodka soda is the classic low-carb drink. It is a great cocktail choice with no carbohydrates or added sugar. Sparkling water dilutes the vodka, making the drink last longer without impacting the nutrition profile.
A tequila and lime is a lower-calorie alternative to a margarita. Instead of a pre-made margarita mix that is high in carbohydrates, this alternative sticks to the basics: tequila and lime. Ask for a splash of lime juice or flavor the tequila with a lime wedge—both options keep the drink low-carb.
A martini is essentially all alcohol. It contains vodka or gin and dry vermouth, an aromatic fortified wine used for flavoring. The high alcohol content contributes to the higher amount of calories per 4-ounce drink. Still, the martini is low-carb. Vodka and gin are zero-carb.
Dry wines are a great low-carb drink, with each 5-ounce pour containing about 3 grams of carbohydrates. The fermentation process converts most of the sugar into alcohol, leaving little residual sugar.
Light beers are lower in calories and alcohol than regular beer. Fewer malted grains are used to produce a light beer, and other ingredients like rice and corn are often added to build flavor and body. Light beers may have a weaker taste than regular beer due to changes in the brewing process to create lower-carb and calorie beer.
Despite being derived from sugarcane, rum is naturally low-carb and sugar-free. However, be aware that some brands add sugar after processing, which can increase the carbohydrate and calorie content. To make an informed choice, check out this list of sugar content in different rums.
Hard seltzers are everywhere these days. They combine soda water, alcohol, and flavoring for a convenient low-carb cocktail. Although the nutrition profile of hard seltzer varies depending on the brand, most are low-carb. Yes, hard seltzers contain sugar cane.