An alcohol calorie counter estimates calories in beer, wine, spirits, and mixed drinks. Alcohol contains 7 kcal per gram, more than carbs or protein (4 kcal/g) but less than fat (9 kcal/g).
How to count alcohol calories
Use the formula: ethanol ml = volume x (ABV / 100), then ethanol grams = ethanol ml x 0.789, then alcohol calories = ethanol grams x 7. Our alcohol calories calculator does this automatically.
Common beverages calorie table
| Drink | Serving | ABV | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light beer | 12 oz | ~4% | ~90-120 kcal |
| Regular beer | 12 oz | ~5% | ~140-160 kcal |
| Craft IPA | 12 oz | ~7% | ~200-250 kcal |
| Red wine | 5 oz | ~12% | ~100-125 kcal |
| White wine | 5 oz | ~11% | ~90-110 kcal |
| Dessert wine | 3.5 oz | ~18% | ~140-160 kcal |
| Vodka shot | 1.5 oz | 40% | ~100 kcal |
| Whiskey shot | 1.5 oz | 40% | ~100 kcal |
| Margarita | 12 oz | ~12% | ~300-400 kcal |
| Pina colada | 12 oz | ~15% | ~300-500 kcal |
How alcohol affects metabolism and fat loss
Alcohol metabolism takes priority over fat oxidation in the liver. While alcohol is being cleared, fat burning slows temporarily. Alcohol also impairs recovery, raises cortisol, and can increase hunger.
Strategies for moderate drinking on a diet
- Budget alcohol calories ahead by reducing carbs or fat elsewhere.
- Choose lower-ABV options and avoid sugary mixers.
- Log alcohol in your food diary just like any other food.
- Drink water between alcoholic drinks to slow intake.
- Pair alcohol with a high-protein meal to help control appetite.
Related calculators
Alcohol Calories Calculator
Get the exact calories in your drink by entering ABV and volume.
Macro Calculator
Adjust your daily macros to fit alcohol calories without derailing your diet.
Sources and further reading
These independent, authoritative sources inform the methods used on this page.