10 Best Keto-Friendly Alcoholic Drinks to Enjoy Without Breaking Ketosis
For those of us following a ketogenic diet, finding suitable alcoholic beverages can be challenging. Many drinks are packed with carbs and sugars that could quickly derail our hard-earned state of ketosis.
But don’t worry!
There are plenty of delicious options that allow us to enjoy a drink or two while staying on track with our keto goals.
Understanding Alcohol and Ketosis
Before we dive into our list of keto-approved drinks, it’s crucial to understand how alcohol affects ketosis. When we consume alcohol, our body prioritizes metabolizing it over burning fat.
This doesn’t necessarily kick us out of ketosis, but it does pause fat burning temporarily.
The key is to choose low-carb options that won’t flood our system with excess sugars and carbohydrates. By doing so, we can enjoy a drink without derailing our keto progress.
1. Vodka
Vodka is a versatile choice for keto dieters. With zero carbs and endless mixing possibilities, it’s a top pick for those watching their carb intake.
A standard 1.5-ounce shot of vodka contains about 97 calories and absolutely no carbs.
To keep things keto-friendly, mix vodka with soda water and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing cocktail. For added flavor without the carbs, try infusing your vodka at home with keto-friendly ingredients like cucumber or berries.
When choosing vodka, opt for unflavored varieties to avoid hidden sugars. Some flavored vodkas can contain added sweeteners that could impact your carb count.
2. Gin
Gin is another excellent choice for keto dieters. Like vodka, it contains zero carbs and is relatively low in calories.
What sets gin apart is its complex botanical flavor profile, which can make for more interesting drinks without the need for sugary mixers.
Try a gin and soda with a twist of lemon or a splash of sugar-free tonic water. The juniper berries used in gin production may even offer extra health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.
For a more sophisticated drink, consider a gin martini. Made with just gin and a splash of dry vermouth, it’s a classic cocktail that fits perfectly into a keto lifestyle.
3. Tequila
Contra to what a lot of people believe, tequila can be a keto-friendly option when consumed correctly. Pure, 100% agave tequila contains zero carbs.
However, it’s important to be wary of mixers and flavored tequilas that can add unwanted sugars.
To truly appreciate tequila’s flavor, sip it neat or on the rocks. For a low-carb twist on the classic margarita, mix tequila with soda water and a squeeze of lime.
When choosing tequila, always opt for 100% agave varieties. Some cheaper tequilas may contain added sugars or other non-keto-friendly ingredients.
4. Whiskey
Whether you prefer Scotch, bourbon, or rye, whiskey is a solid choice for keto drinkers. Like other clear spirits, whiskey contains no carbs when consumed straight or on the rocks.
Its complex flavor profile makes it perfect for sipping and savoring, eliminating the need for high-carb mixers.
If you’re new to whiskey, try adding a few drops of water to your glass. This can help open up the flavors and make it more palatable.
For a keto-friendly whiskey cocktail, try a whiskey soda with a twist of lemon.
Different types of whiskey offer unique flavor profiles. Experiment with various styles to find your favorite.
Bourbon tends to be sweeter, while Scotch often has a smoky flavor.
5. Dry Red Wine
While not all wines are created equal in the keto world, dry red wines can be enjoyed in moderation. Varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir typically contain 3-4 grams of carbs per 5-ounce glass.
The key is to stick to dry wines and avoid sweet or dessert wines, which can pack a hefty carb punch. Red wine also contains resveratrol, an antioxidant that may have heart-healthy benefits.
When selecting red wine, look for options labeled as “dry” or “brut.” These terms indicate lower sugar content. Remember that moderation is key, as excessive alcohol consumption can negate potential health benefits and impact your keto goals.
6. Dry White Wine
For white wine lovers, dry varieties like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and Chardonnay are your best bets. These typically contain slightly fewer carbs than their red counterparts, usually around 2-3 grams per 5-ounce glass.
Steer clear of sweet white wines and opt for brut or extra brut sparkling wines if you’re in the mood for bubbles. These drier options have less residual sugar, making them more keto-friendly.
When enjoying white wine, be mindful of portion sizes. It’s easy to overpour, which can lead to consuming more carbs than intended. Using a measured pour spout or marking your wine glasses can help confirm you’re sticking to a standard 5-ounce serving.
7. Light Beer
While regular beer is generally off-limits on a keto diet because of its high carb content, light beers can be an occasional treat. Look for options like Michelob Ultra (2.6g carbs per 12 oz), Corona Premier (2.6g carbs), or Budweiser Select 55 (1.9g carbs).
Even these lower-carb options should be consumed in moderation. Remember that while they’re lower in carbs, they still contain some, and those can add up quickly if you’re not careful.
For craft beer enthusiasts, some breweries are now producing keto-friendly beers. Keep an eye out for these at your local bottle shop.
These specialty brews are designed to be low in carbs while still offering complex flavors.
8. Hard Seltzers
The rise of hard seltzers has been a boon for keto dieters. Many brands offer options with 2 grams of carbs or less per can.
Look for varieties that use natural flavors and avoid added sugars.
Hard seltzers can be a refreshing choice to heavier cocktails, especially during summer months. They come in a wide variety of flavors, allowing you to switch things up without worrying about carb content.
When choosing hard seltzers, always check the nutrition label. Some brands may have higher carb counts than others.
Opt for people who have the lowest carb content to stay within your keto goals.
9. Keto-Friendly Cocktails
Just because you’re on a keto diet doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a fancy cocktail. The key is to get creative with low-carb mixers and flavoring agents.
Here’s a simple recipe for a Keto Moscow Mule:
- 2 oz vodka
- 4 oz sugar-free ginger beer
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- Ice
- Mint leaves for garnish
Mix all ingredients in a copper mug filled with ice, stir, and garnish with mint leaves.
Other keto-friendly cocktail ideas include:
- Keto Mojito: Rum, mint leaves, lime juice, stevia, and soda water
- Low-Carb Margarita: Tequila, lime juice, orange extract, and stevia
- Keto Old Fashioned: Bourbon, sugar-free simple syrup, and bitters
When making cocktails, always use sugar-free mixers and natural flavorings to keep the carb count low.
10. Brandy and Cognac
For a more refined drinking experience, brandy and cognac can be excellent keto-friendly choices. These distilled spirits contain zero carbs when consumed neat or on the rocks.
Their rich, complex flavors make them perfect for sipping slowly, helping you savor your drink without overindulging. The aging process of brandy and cognac can contribute to their antioxidant content, potentially offering some health benefits when consumed in moderation.
When enjoying brandy or cognac, take the time to appreciate the nuanced flavors. These spirits are best enjoyed slowly, which can help naturally limit your intake.
The Importance of Moderation
While these keto-friendly options allow us to enjoy alcohol without derailing our diet, it’s crucial to remember that moderation is key. Alcohol can lower our inhibitions and potentially lead to poor food choices.
Additionally, many keto dieters report lower alcohol tolerance and more severe hangovers, likely because of changes in hydration and electrolyte balance on the diet.
To mitigate these effects:
- Stay hydrated by drinking water between alcoholic beverages.
- Consider adding electrolytes to your water to maintain balance.
- Have a keto-friendly snack before drinking to help slow alcohol absorption.
- Be mindful of your limits and know when to call it a night.
Conclusion: Cheers to Keto-Friendly Drinking
Embracing a ketogenic lifestyle doesn’t mean giving up on social drinking entirely. By choosing low-carb options and practicing moderation, we can enjoy alcoholic beverages without sabotaging our ketosis.
Remember to listen to your body, stay hydrated, and always drink responsibly. Whether you’re sipping on a neat whiskey, enjoying a vodka soda, or indulging in a glass of dry wine, these keto-friendly options prove that you can have your drink and stay in ketosis too.
People Also Asked
What alcoholic drinks have the least carbs?
Pure spirits like vodka, gin, whiskey, and tequila contain zero carbs. Dry wines and light beers are also lower in carbs compared to other alcoholic beverages.
Can I drink alcohol on a keto diet?
Yes, you can drink alcohol on a keto diet, but it’s important to choose low-carb options and consume in moderation. Stick to spirits, dry wines, and light beers.
Does vodka kick you out of ketosis?
Pure vodka doesn’t contain carbs and won’t directly kick you out of ketosis. However, alcohol consumption can temporarily pause fat burning as your body prioritizes metabolizing the alcohol.
Is wine keto-friendly?
Dry wines can be keto-friendly in moderation. Red wines typically contain 3-4 grams of carbs per 5-ounce glass, while dry white wines have slightly less.
What beer can I drink on keto?
Light beers are the best option for keto dieters. Look for brands like Michelob Ultra, Corona Premier, or Budweiser Select 55, which contain 2.6 grams of carbs or less per 12-ounce serving.
Are hard seltzers keto-friendly?
Many hard seltzers are keto-friendly, containing 2 grams of carbs or less per can. Always check the label to confirm you’re choosing a low-carb option.
Can I have a margarita on keto?
Traditional margaritas are high in sugar and carbs. However, you can make a keto-friendly version using tequila, lime juice, and a sugar-free sweetener.
Does gin have carbs?
Pure gin contains zero carbs, making it a good choice for keto dieters. Be cautious with flavored gins, which may contain added sugars.
Is whiskey okay on keto?
Whiskey is a keto-friendly option as it contains zero carbs when consumed straight or on the rocks. Avoid mixing it with high-carb beverages.
How does alcohol affect weight loss on keto?
While alcohol itself doesn’t contain carbs, it can slow down weight loss on keto. Your body prioritizes metabolizing alcohol over burning fat, which can temporarily pause fat burning.