Living a healthy life also means finding a balance that works for you—between well-being, enjoyment, and shared moments. This can sometimes include raising a glass to celebrate, unwind, or enjoy the company of loved ones.
If you choose to drink alcohol, some options may better fit into your daily routine. It’s not about restriction, but about choosing what feels good—without excess or guilt.
Here are 10 lighter alcoholic drink ideas to enjoy in moderation, combining social pleasure with mindful choices.
1. Vodka soda: minimalist and refreshing
Made with vodka (1.5 oz) and sparkling water, this light drink provides around 100 calories and no sugar per glass. A simple and refreshing choice.
Add a lime wedge, a few mint leaves, or berries for an aromatic twist.
2. Rum and sugar-free cola: festive and light
With about 100 calories and 0 g of sugar, this mix of rum (1.5 oz) and sugar-free cola is a popular party option.
You can also add a lime wedge or opt for an unsweetened spiced rum, which usually has similar calorie content, as long as you avoid the sweeter flavoured versions.
3. Whisky or bourbon: simple and rich in flavour
Enjoyed neat or on the rocks, this spirit offers about 100 calories per standard serving (1.5 oz). A drink to savour slowly.
4. Light gin and tonic: a refreshed classic
Made with gin (1.5 oz) and tonic with no added sugar, this cocktail contains about 110 calories and no sugar, while preserving the refreshing taste of a classic G&T.
Add a lime slice, cucumber, or a few berries.
Canada offers a wide variety of local gins with diverse flavour profiles, allowing for different taste experiences.
5. Brut sparkling wine: bubbly and moderate
Served in a 150 ml flute, brut sparkling wine provides around 100 calories and 1.2 g of sugar. An elegant and lighter-than-expected option for festive occasions.
One glass of brut usually contains less than 2 g of sugar, while a demi-sec can have up to 6 or 7 g. Simply switching types can triple the sugar content—without noticeably affecting the taste.
6. Dry white wine: fresh and versatile
A 150 ml glass of dry white wine provides about 120 calories and 1.4 g of sugar, making it a more favourable choice.
For more low-calorie wine options, check out our top 10 low-calorie wines.
7. Red wine: rich and warming
A glass of dry red wine (150 ml) contains about 125 calories and 1.2 g of sugar.
It naturally contains plant compounds like polyphenols, and may support heart health when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced lifestyle.
8. Blonde beer 4%: simple and popular
A can of light blonde beer with 4% alcohol (341 ml) contains between 90 and 100 calories and 0.5 g of sugar. A good alternative to regular beers thanks to its lower calorie content.
9. Mojito: refreshing and customizable
Made with rum, lime, mint, sparkling water, and a small amount of sugar, a homemade 150 ml mojito provides about 145 calories and 8 g of sugar.
You can easily adjust the sugar amount to your liking, or replace it with a sweetener (like stevia or Splenda) if you live with diabetes.
10. Light cranberry vodka: fruity and tangy
With 1.5 oz of vodka and about 120 ml of light cranberry juice, this cocktail delivers around 120 calories and 6 g of sugar, while being easier to digest than the classic version.
More and more light fruit juices are available in stores. To switch things up, try mango, grapefruit, or blueberry—easily found at most groceries.
And if you have a health condition?
Certain conditions like diabetes, fatty liver disease or high triglycerides may affect which alcoholic drinks are suitable for you.
In these cases, it may be helpful to:
- Consider non-alcoholic beverages, like mocktails, to enjoy flavourful options that respect your health recommendations;
- Choose low-sugar options, such as a dry spirit with flavoured sparkling water;
- Avoid sweet cocktails, flavoured beers, or sugar-rich ready-to-drink options;
- Speak with a health professional, like a dietitian, to tailor your choices to your specific condition.
All types of alcohol are processed by the liver—none are better in that context. What matters most is making informed choices based on your reality and drinking in moderation.
Drinking with pleasure and mindfulness
There’s no need to choose between enjoyment and health. What matters most is liking what you drink. If the taste doesn’t satisfy you, you might keep seeking more without truly feeling content. Enjoying a drink mindfully, honouring your cravings and limits, helps you savour the moment—without guilt or excess.
Some simple tips:
- Drink slowly, savouring every sip.
- Stay well hydrated (alternating with water feels great!).
- Listen to your body: pleasure lasts longer when it aligns with your comfort.
Health, balance, and enjoyment: it all fits together!
At TeamNutrition, we firmly believe that a healthy life includes moments of joy and connection. What’s most important is making conscious choices—free of guilt or pressure. Whether your goal is health, weight management, or simply well-being, it’s possible to make choices aligned with your needs.
Want to explore how to better understand your eating habits, relationship with food, or alcohol consumption? Our registered dietitians are here to support you in the long term—with kindness, compassion, and professionalism.
Book an appointment with one of our team’s dietitians to receive personalized guidance tailored to your goals, your reality, and your preferences.
