Alcohols Hidden Calories

It’s easy to forget that alcohol isn’t just about what’s in the glass, it’s also packed with hidden calories. At 7 calories per gram, alcohol contains almost as much energy as fat, and it can add up quicker than you think it would!  

Unlike food, these are what we call “empty calories” which offer little to no nutritional benefit.  

Comparisons:  

When it comes to calories, drinks can sometimes rival that favourite snack and meal. For example: 

That means a couple of drinks with dinner could quickly equate to you consuming the same calories as a second meal. 

Why are they called empty-calories? 

Unlike whole foods, alcohol provides no essential nutrients. It won’t fuel your body in the way fruit, vegetables, or protein will. Instead, it supplies extra energy that your body may store as fat. 

Did you know, alcohol can also slow down your body’s ability to burn fat. Over time, this increases the risk of weight gain and related health issues. 

Smarter drinking choices 

Not everyone has to give up alcohol entirely to take control of their health. Things to try instead are: 

Tip: if you wouldn’t eat two cheeseburgers, think twice about two cocktails. 

Final thoughts 

Making small, consistent changes to your drinking habits can have a big impact on your health and wellbeing. By becoming more aware of the hidden calories in alcohol, you can make choices that support your goals, without giving up on the things you enjoy. 

 
Are you ready to take the next step? Explore how our Best-You platform can support you with healthier habits, personalised tips, and practical tools to keep you on track.