Wednesday, March 08, 2006

What's The Best Low-Carb Beer?



After a long day of work, sometimes I like to drink a beer. Is there one you can recommend that won't derail my fitness progress?" --Bronson, Los Angeles

Bronson, most "regular" 12 oz. beers have about 150 calories and 11 grams of carbs, so you'll want to stick with a "low-carb" beer. These beers vary, but usually contain 95-110 calories and (usually) 2-6 grams of carbs per serving. My personal favorite (based on taste) is Amstel Light with only 5 carbs and 95 calories, but a great second alternative is Michelob Ultra with only 2.6 carbs and 95 calories.

Remember, when you cut carbs, you're also cutting calories, which is why "low-carb" beers are better for your waistline. But any type of alcohol stimulates cortisol, which can make you gain weight. So don't count on low-carb beers as part of your nutrition strategy. My recommendation is that you eliminate alcohol completely if you're trying to lose weight. --Sam