Leena Watts
Gin and tonic is a classic cocktail that has gained popularity among millennials and post-millennials. The drink is also a popular choice for those looking to cut down on calories as gin and tonic calories are lower with diet tonic water. A shot of gin, which is typically used in a single gin and tonic, contains about 97 calories. When mixed with diet tonic water, which has zero calories, the drink remains at 97 calories. However, when made with regular tonic water, the calorie count increases due to the presence of sugar or high-fructose corn syrup. For those watching their carbohydrate intake, a simple hack to reduce carbs in a gin and tonic is to replace half of the tonic water with club soda.
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What You'll Learn
Gin and tonic calories
Gin and tonic is a classic cocktail that has gained popularity among millennials and post-millennials. The drink is also a popular choice for those looking to shed some pounds as gin and tonic calories are relatively low.
The calorie content of a gin and tonic varies depending on the type of tonic water used. A shot of gin, typically used in a single gin and tonic, contains about 97 calories. However, when mixed with diet tonic water, the drink will have no additional calories, resulting in a total of 97 calories for the cocktail. Diet tonic water is a sugar substitute that contains artificial sweeteners, providing zero calories.
On the other hand, regular tonic water contributes additional calories to the cocktail. Tonic water calories can vary slightly by brand, but on average, there are approximately 35 calories in 100 milliliters of tonic water (about half a cup). Therefore, a gin and tonic made with regular tonic water will have a higher calorie count than one made with diet tonic water.
For those conscious about their calorie intake, there are ways to reduce the calories in a gin and tonic further. One method is to replace half of the tonic water with club soda or seltzer water, as these carbonated beverages typically contain few or no calories. Additionally, opting for a low-calorie tonic water brand, such as Fever-Tree Refreshingly Light tonic, can also help reduce the overall calorie count of the cocktail.
While gin and tonic may be a relatively lower-calorie option compared to other alcoholic beverages, it is important to remember that alcohol itself has been associated with potential health risks. As suggested by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, alcohol can be considered both a "tonic and a poison," depending on the amount consumed. While moderate drinking may offer some benefits, excessive alcohol consumption is linked to negative health outcomes.
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Tonic water calories
Tonic water is a popular mixer, often used in gin and tonic cocktails. However, it is loaded with calories due to its sugar and sweetener content. Tonic water typically contains 32–33 grams of sugar per serving, which is usually in the form of cane sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, or simply sugar. Some brands may also use artificial sweeteners.
The calorie count of tonic water varies across brands, ranging from 40 to 120 calories per 12-ounce serving. For example, Schweppes brand tonic water has 114 calories per bottle, while Fever-Tree Light Tonic Water has only 30 calories per 6.8 fl oz serving. The calories in tonic water come from sugars and sweeteners, with some brands containing high fructose corn syrup, while others use cane sugar or simply sugar.
The high sugar content in tonic water can be concerning for those watching their calorie intake, as it can contribute to weight gain and health issues such as high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. As a result, some people may prefer to use diet tonic water, which contains artificial sweeteners instead of sugar, reducing the calorie count to zero. However, it's important to note that artificial sweeteners should also be consumed in moderation, as they are processed and not as healthy as natural, whole foods.
Additionally, tonic water can be a source of sodium, with some brands providing up to 55 milligrams of sodium per serving. While this may not be a concern for most people, those watching their sodium intake should be mindful of their consumption.
Overall, while tonic water is a popular mixer, it's important to be aware of its calorie, sugar, and sodium content. For those looking for lower-calorie alternatives, diet tonic water or other sugar-free mixers like club soda or seltzer water are available. These options can provide the same fizz and taste without the added calories and sugar.
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Low-calorie alternatives
A gin and tonic is a classic cocktail with a calorie count of 171 calories per cocktail. A shot of gin, which is typically what's in a single gin and tonic, delivers 97 calories. Tonic water calories differ slightly by brand. Generally, there are approximately 35 calories in 100ml of tonic water, according to the USDA.
Regular tonic water contains sugar or high-fructose corn syrup. Diet tonic water, on the other hand, is a no-calorie sugar substitute, containing artificial sweeteners. This means it will have zero calories. However, the Mayo Clinic suggests limiting the intake of artificial sweeteners as processed foods are not as healthy as natural, whole foods.
- Gin and soda: Using soda water instead of tonic water will give you a low-calorie drink without the artificial sweeteners.
- Low-calorie tonic water: There are many low-calorie tonic waters available that contain little to no sugar. For example, TwelveBelow's low-sugar tonic waters are made with sparkling water, natural fruit flavours, and a dash of lemon juice.
- Low-calorie gin: Lower-calorie gins are available, which, when paired with a low-calorie tonic, can make for a winning combination.
- Low-calorie mixers: There are many low-calorie mixers available that can be used in place of tonic water, such as Dash Soda Rhubarb & Ginger, or Acti-Vit's vitamin-rich sparking waters.
- Light or slimline tonics: Most tonic brands offer light or slimline versions that have fewer calories and sugar.
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Health benefits of gin
A gin and tonic is a classic cocktail that is popular with people who are watching their weight as gin and tonic calories are low. A traditional shot of gin (42 grams or about 1.5 ounces) contains 97 calories, and when mixed with diet tonic water, which has zero calories, the drink contains only 97 calories in total.
Antioxidant Properties
Gin is infused with juniper berries, which are considered a "superfood". Juniper berries are packed with antioxidants, which have health-promoting benefits ranging from skin health to protection from chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. A 2018 study in Industrial Crops and Products found that juniper berry essential oil may have some anti-aging properties, which can help keep wrinkles at bay. A 2022 review study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences also suggested that the anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties of juniper berries can improve health.
Treatment of Infections and Boosting the Immune System
Juniper berries are often used to treat infections and boost the immune system in traditional Chinese medicine. The oils contained in juniper berries can also help alleviate coughs by expelling mucus in the throat and aiding lung congestion.
Appetite Stimulation
Gin is a popular aperitif (a drink served before a meal) in several cultures, believed to help prepare the digestive system for a meal. Indeed, drinking alcohol before a meal has been found to stimulate the appetite.
It is important to note that while moderate drinking can be good for your heart and blood circulation, heavy drinking is a major cause of preventable death in most countries. The CDC recommends two drinks or less per day for men and one drink or less per day for women.
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Health hazards of gin
Gin and diet tonic is a low-calorie drink, with a shot of gin containing 97 calories and diet tonic water adding no extra calories. However, it's important to note that while gin and tonic may be lower in calories than some other alcoholic drinks, excessive consumption can lead to health hazards.
Firstly, it's crucial to understand that the health hazards of gin primarily stem from its high alcohol content, which can lead to quick intoxication, especially when combined with mixers that mask its flavour. Moderate drinking can have positive effects on heart health and blood circulation, but heavy drinking is a major cause of preventable death worldwide and can lead to long-term health issues. These risks include liver damage, heart problems, gastrointestinal issues, cognitive decline, and the risk of alcohol dependency and withdrawal. Even light alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers, such as breast cancer.
Additionally, gin consumption can lead to impaired judgment and coordination, increased likelihood of accidents, and hangovers. In extreme cases, excessive consumption can lead to nausea, vomiting, and alcohol poisoning. It is also important to note that alcohol interacts with medications, sometimes making them less effective or even harmful.
Furthermore, while gin is derived from juniper berries, which are known for their antioxidant properties, there is no evidence that these properties survive the fermentation process. Claims about the health benefits of gin, such as improved skin health and protection from chronic diseases, are largely unfounded.
In conclusion, while gin and diet tonic can be a low-calorie drink option, excessive consumption can lead to serious health hazards. It is important to practise moderation and be aware of the potential risks associated with alcohol consumption.
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Frequently asked questions
A gin and diet tonic has fewer carbs than a regular gin and tonic. A gin and tonic (1 cocktail) contains 15.8g of total carbs. One way to reduce the number of carbs is to replace half of the tonic with club soda.
A shot of gin (42 grams or about 1.5 ounces) contains 97 calories. Diet tonic water has zero calories as it uses artificial sweeteners instead of sugar. Therefore, a gin and diet tonic have the same calorie count as a gin and soda water or club soda, which is 97 calories.
Compared to darker alcoholic drinks such as red wine and brown spirits, gin and tonics have a lower calorie content. Gin doesn't contain congeners, which are byproducts of the fermentation process and can worsen hangover symptoms. However, alcohol is linked to negative health effects, so no alcoholic drink can be considered healthy.
One way to make a low-carb gin and tonic is to use a good quality gin and replace half the tonic with club soda. Another suggestion is to use Fever-Tree Refreshingly Light tonic, which contains less sugar and calories than other brands but is not artificially sweetened.
