Why Alcohol Packs on the Calories
Alcohol is a crafty combo of sugar and ethanol—both caloric heavyweights. The stronger the alcohol, the more calories it brings to the party. Spirits like gin, whiskey, and rum are especially dense in calories. Alexandra Retion, dietitian-nutritionist and author of “Qu’est-ce qu’on mange?”, puts it this way:
« Alcohol is nearly as rich as fat in terms of calories. One gram of alcohol has about 7 kcal, compared to 9 kcal for a gram of fat. Plus, alcohol is made up of empty calories—it doesn’t offer any valuable nutrients. Sure, wine contains protective antioxidants called polyphenols, but you’ll also find those in grapes themselves. »
So, bottom line: alcohol makes you gain weight. It’s not just calorific, it’s also nutritionally empty. While wine may have a few redeeming polyphenols, let’s be honest—you’re not drinking it for the health benefits, right?
What Makes That Drink So Fattening?
It boils down to two main things: sugar and ethanol. According to Alexandra Retion,
« What makes a glass of alcohol calorific is the presence of sugar and ethanol, both being high in calories. And the stronger the alcohol, the more calorie-dense it is. »
Pour in a splash of soda, a shot of sugary juice, or top your glass with decorative candy—now you’ve created a real calorie bomb. These extras pile on the calories and can quickly sabotage weight loss efforts.
There’s also a sneaky side effect: alcohol tends to make you hungrier and encourages fat storage. In fact, Retion explains:
« Alcohol consumption stimulates appetite and favors fat storage. The body prioritizes burning the alcohol calories over energy from fat, so fats get stored—mostly around your belly. »
Alcohol & Dieting: Handle with Care
On a diet? Alcohol can quickly tip the scale in the wrong direction. But don’t panic; Alexandra Retion isn’t suggesting you go dry—even if you’re focused on losing weight. She advises:
« It’s always best to avoid restrictive diets and frustration. If you’re trying to lose weight, be reasonable. The key is to enjoy yourself while making adjustments throughout the day to maintain nutritional balance. »
Got a night out or drinks with friends? Instead of reaching for fruit juice or a nonalcoholic cocktail—which can be just as calorific, if not more—focus on limiting your sugar intake that day. Maybe skip dessert or a sweet snack, for example.
Lighten Up: Smart Choices with Alcohol
If you want to enjoy a drink without overloading on calories, choose lighter alcoholic options like wine or cider and steer clear of calorie-packed cocktails. Skip the refill, and take your time enjoying what’s in your glass! Alexandra Retion sums it up:
« Opt for the lightest alcohols (wine, cider) and forget the cocktails, which are often full of hidden calories. Take your time, limit your drinks, savor your champagne. If you do fancy a nice glass of wine, allow yourself the pleasure—but maybe resist having seconds. »
Jack Mercer is a writer with a passion for American culture and everyday style. After spending years exploring the country’s hidden gems and fashion scenes, he found his voice sharing stories that celebrate the authentic spirit of modern America. When he’s not writing, you’ll find him hunting for vintage denim or enjoying a good bourbon on his front porch.
