No, you don't have to swear off socializing or even sipping cocktails if you're watching your weight. Here's HG's guide to guilt-free bar-hopping ...
HG Tip #1 - Don't go out on an empty stomach. Bar food is scary high in fat and calories, so eat something before heading out. Plus, drinking alcohol without any food to absorb it will cause you to get drunk quickly. And we all know a buzz can lower our inhibitions (even around that plate of nachos!). In a pinch, score some celery and carrot sticks off that plate of buffalo wings and dip 'em in the salsa served with those chips!
HG Tip #2 - Avoid fancy frozen beverages. Margaritas, pina coladas, and daiquiris can contain hundreds of calories each, especially when you consider the ridiculously oversized versions being served at most places. Creamy liqueurs are another no-no. A single shot of Baileys Irish Cream will set you back around 150 calories and 7 grams of fat! Avoid juice-based cocktails as well -- you'll end up adding 50 to 100 calories to each beverage if you choose juices over calorie-free stuff. Beer may seem like an innocent option, but keep careful count of how many you toss back. Four bottles of regular beer over the course of a night will cost you more than 600 calories!
HG Tip #3 - Stick with low-cal options. No-calorie seltzer or diet soda is the ideal base for drinks with hard alcohol (a shot of most hard alcohol has around 100 calories). To add more flavor, use fruity garnishes like lime, lemon, and orange slices to zazzle up your cocktail. Light beer, at around 100 calories a bottle, is a good option. But if you're the type to guzzle those quickly, stick to cocktails and wine, which you can nurse for longer.
HG Tip #4 - Take it slow. Alternating alcoholic beverages with no-calorie non-alcoholic ones is a great way to pace yourself and your calorie intake. Try not to down more than one alcoholic drink per hour. If you're swirling the ice in your glass itchin' for another, take a lap around the bar to chat with friends, play a game of darts or pool, or step outside for some fresh air.
FYI ...
For every five maraschino cherries you chew, add 50 calories to your total tally.
A single ounce of grenadine (that fruity red stuff that gets poured in nearly everything!) contains around 80 calories itself!
That sour mix that starts off so many cocktails is literally sugar water plus lemon or lime juice! It can add almost 100 calories to your drink. Eek!
Remember, everyone loves a designated driver! So don't feel pressured to drink if you don't feel like it. You can still have a fun night out with friends ...
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