HOW TO ... LIGHTEN YOUR DRINKS
Here are some tips for cutting the calories, carbohydrates and fat in alcoholic beverages:
Don't overdo it. Doctors recommend a limit of two drinks a day for men and one for women. You may be imbibing on a special occasion, but stay in control (and have a designated driver).
Go for lighter choices. In general, wine, champagne and light beers are three of the healthier options. Still, be aware that they aren't calorie-free - light beers, unlike diet sodas, may have 100 or more calories per can.
Dilute your orders. Turn a glass of wine into a spritzer by mixing in seltzer water and a slice of lemon, or a beer into a shandy with soda water. You'll have a bigger drink with fewer calories.
Ask for extra ice. The cubes will make your serving of alcohol smaller and let you nurse each drink longer.
Alternate drinks. If you're having more than one alcoholic drink, get a glass of water or diet soda between each order.
Beware of mixed drinks ... Some frozen, sugary and creamy beverages can pack more than 800 calories per serving. The worst offenders are anything made of dessert-like ingredients - Irish coffee, pina coladas and eggnog, for example. Also, ask for low-calorie or diet mixers when possible.
... and hard liquor. A single shot may be small, but it can pack anywhere from 100 to 200 calories.
Eat something. Food in your stomach will slow the rate your body absorbs alcohol, giving you more control over how much you drink. If possible, have a healthy meal or snack before you order your first beverage.
---
(c) 2008, Daily Press (Newport News, Va.). Distributed by Mclatchy-Tribune News Service.