A Vodka, A Beer...And A Small Waistline, Please!

Prev 1 2 3 4 Next

Making better alcoholic drink choices

When choosing alcoholic drinks, consider their calorie, fat and alcohol content. Remember that cocktails made with cream, ice cream, or coconut cream, for example, will be higher in fat than ones that don't contain these ingredients. Also, low-carb beers may be slightly lower in calories than regular beer, but won't necessarily have a lower alcohol content.

Below is a small sample of popular alcoholic drinks. An extensive listing of alcoholic drinks with their calorie, kilojoule and alcohol count can also be found in the new 2008 Calorie, Fat and Carbohydrate Counter.

Hangover helpers

If you do happen to overdo it and wake up with a throbbing head, you’ll need some hangover cures to curb the poison.

Before you hit the sack - If you want to make the morning after easier, try to drink a big glass of water before you go to bed. Taking a pain killer at this stage may actually make things worse. Aspirin may upset your stomach and intensify the symptoms of your hangover, while acetaminophen – an ingredient in some pain killers - can cause problems for your liver when combined with alcohol.

Fluids - Fluids, and lots of them, will help you recover. Try a few big glasses of water, some fruit juice, or whip up a smoothie with a banana or any other fruit, skim or soy milk and honey.

Food - Excess alcohol means excess calories, so the morning after is not a good time to indulge in high-calorie foods. If your favourite hangover cure tends to be a fast-food burger or a fattening pastry, try some of Boris' calorie-friendly alternatives mentioned earlier in this article.

Remember, a good time on Australia Day needn't lead to headaches, dramas or weight gain. Follow our tips and enjoy our national holiday!

Related links :

• CalorieKing Recipes: Appetizers and Snacks

Last updated: January 11th, 2008