Gin and tonic is a classic cocktail. Refreshing and easy to make, it’s a go-to for many. But if you’re watching your calorie intake, you might be wondering, “How many calories are in gin and tonic?”
This article breaks down the calorie count of a gin and tonic, taking into account the different types of gin and tonic water you might choose. Understanding the calorie content is important, especially if you’re trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
We’ll cover the calories in gin, the calories in tonic water, and other factors that can affect the overall calorie count of your drink.
Breaking Down the Calories: The Key Components
To really understand the calorie count of a gin and tonic, it’s important to look at the two main ingredients: gin and tonic water.
Gin: The Spirit’s Calorie Contribution
How many calories are in gin? That depends on the serving size and the alcohol by volume (ABV) of the gin.
- A standard single measure of gin (25ml) has around 52 to 54 calories.
- A double measure (50ml) has around 104 to 108 calories.
Gin itself is a zero-carb spirit, so the calories are coming only from the alcohol. Dry gins are usually a bit lower in calories than fruit-flavored gins.
Tonic Water: The Mixer’s Impact
The tonic water is what really makes a difference in the calorie count of your drink. Regular tonic water has about 43 calories per 150ml. Plus, it contains around 15g of carbs per 150ml serving.
If you’re watching your calories or carbs, slimline or diet tonic water is a good option. It has almost zero calories.
Gin and Tonic Calorie Counts: What to Know
So, how many calories are actually in a gin and tonic? Well, it depends.
- A standard gin and tonic made with 25ml of gin and 150ml of regular tonic water is around 97-120 calories.
- If you swap out the regular tonic for slimline tonic, that brings the count down to about 54-55 calories for the same serving size.
Keep in mind that these are estimates. The brand of gin and tonic you use matters, as does the serving size. Gin’s alcohol content can also vary between 37.5% and 47%, which affects the total calorie count.
Finally, be aware that mixers besides tonic water will change the calorie count. Orange juice, for example, adds significantly more calories and carbs.
Low-Calorie Gin and Tonic Options
If you’re watching your calorie intake, choosing the right mixer is key. Soda water or diet tonic water can significantly reduce the calorie count.
Here are some tips for a lighter gin and tonic:
- Swap tonic water for soda water with a squeeze of lime.
- Add fresh fruits or vegetables like cucumber or lemon for flavor.
Some low-calorie gin cocktail options include:
- Gin and soda with lime (approximately 55 calories)
- Gin and diet tonic (approximately 55 calories)
You might also consider using a lighter tonic water option, such as Fever-Tree Refreshingly Light tonic, to further reduce the calorie content.
Gin and tonic: Health food?
Gin is made with juniper berries and other herbs, which might have some health benefits. Also, the quinine in tonic water may help with restless legs syndrome. However, any benefits are probably minimal. Moderation is key.
Stick to the recommended weekly alcohol limits. For women, it’s one drink a day. For men, it’s two.
Some people believe gin is a “cleaner” alcohol that causes milder hangovers because it has fewer congeners. But this is also likely only true in moderation. Too much gin is still too much alcohol.
Conclusion
It’s good to know the calorie count of your favorite cocktail, like gin and tonic. But you don’t have to give it up completely if you’re watching your weight.
You can reduce the calories by choosing a low-calorie mixer, using slimline tonic, and practicing moderation. Remember to drink plenty of water, too.
Enjoying gin and tonic responsibly can be part of a balanced lifestyle. And staying hydrated may help you avoid a hangover the next day.