5 Best Low-Calorie Beers + 5 Popular Breweries

Jacqueline Eisenbraun (Senior Editor)

Get ready to discover the lowest-calorie beers on the market that will surprise your taste buds. Regarding low-calorie beers, some impressive options won’t leave a significant dent in your daily calorie intake. So, let’s dive into this tantalizing world of brews that won’t tip the calorie scale.

These brews have mastered the art of delivering flavor while keeping the calorie count low. Let’s explore a selection of the lowest-calorie beers available and discover the perfect thirst-quenchers for your healthier lifestyle.

What Low-Calorie Beer Is

What Low-Calorie Beer Is

Beer has been a beloved beverage for centuries, but traditional brews are often packed with calories. That’s where low-calorie beer comes into the picture.

As the name suggests, low-calorie beer is a lighter alternative that provides a refreshing taste while keeping the calorie count in check. Learn what makes low-calorie beer a unique option for those seeking a healthier brew.

Origin and History of Low-Calorie Beer

Low-calorie beer has a fascinating history that dates back several decades. It emerged as a response to the growing demand for a beer that could be enjoyed without the guilt of excessive calories.

Breweries began experimenting with recipes and brewing techniques to create a lighter version of their beloved beverages. The aim was to provide a healthier option while retaining the distinct beer flavor people love.

Types of Low-Calorie Beer

Types of Low-Calorie Beer

Low-calorie beer comes in various types to cater to different tastes and preferences. Some common types include:

• Light Lager: Light lagers are known for their mild flavors and lower alcohol content. They are often crisp, refreshing, and perfect for those who enjoy a clean, easy-drinking beer.
• Session IPA: Session IPAs offer a hoppy and aromatic experience while keeping the calorie count in check. These beers have a lower alcohol content than their full-strength IPA counterparts.
• Wheat Beer: Wheat beers have a light, smooth texture and frequently have citrusy or fruity notes. They provide a delightful balance between flavor and lower calorie content.

Ingredients of Low-Calorie Beer

Ingredients of Low-Calorie Beer

The ingredients used in low-calorie beer play a crucial role in achieving a lighter brew. While the exact composition may vary depending on the brand and type, here are some common ingredients you’ll find in low-calorie beers:

• Malted Barley: Malted barley provides sugars for beer production. It provides the beer’s flavor profile while contributing to its lower calorie content.
• Hops: Hops are natural preservatives. They balance the flavors and aromas of low-calorie beers.
• Yeast: Yeast is responsible for fermenting the sugars in the beer, converting them into alcohol and carbon dioxide. Different yeast strains can impact the beer’s overall taste and characteristics.
• Water: Water is a fundamental component of any beer, affecting its mouthfeel, flavor, and overall quality. Breweries often carefully consider the water source and mineral content to achieve the desired taste in low-calorie beers.

Taste of Low-Calorie Beer

Taste of Low-Calorie Beer

One might wonder if low-calorie beers compromise on taste. The good news is that low-calorie beers have come a long way in flavor and quality.

While they may have fewer calories, they offer a refreshing and enjoyable drinking experience. Breweries have perfected their recipes to balance reducing calories with preserving the delicious flavors that beer enthusiasts appreciate.

Alcohol Content in Low-Calorie Beer

As mentioned earlier, these beers have a much lower calorie count than regular ones. This lower alcohol content allows for better drinking and suits those who prefer a lighter buzz or want to moderate their alcohol intake.

You must check the labels and familiarize yourself with the alcohol content of the low-calorie beers you enjoy responsibly.

Stay tuned as we delve deeper into the realm of low-calorie beers. In the next section, we will explore some of the lowest-calorie options available on the market and help you make an informed choice. Cheers to a healthier beer-drinking experience!

These Beers Are Lowest in Calories

These Beers Are Lowest in Calories

When it comes to low-calorie beers, you might be surprised at the range of options available.

In the next paragraphs you will find a few brews that stand out for their impressively low-calorie content.

Here you’ll find the best low-carb beers.

Light Lager

Light lagers are popular for those seeking a refreshing, low-calorie beer. With a focus on crispness and delicate flavors, these beers often clock in at around 90–100 calories per 12-ounce serving.

Brands like Michelob Ultra and Amstel Light offer fantastic light lagers that won’t weigh you down.

Session IPA

If you’re a fan of hoppy and aromatic beers, a session IPA might be the perfect choice. These brews offer a lower-calorie alternative to their full-strength IPA counterparts while delivering the delightful hop character you crave.

Look for options like Founders All Day IPA and Lagunitas DayTime IPA, which typically come under 150 calories per serving.

Wheat Beer

Wheat Beer

With its smooth texture and fruity notes, wheat beers provide a satisfying drinking experience without the extra calories.

Beers like Blue Moon Belgian White and Sierra Nevada Kellerweis showcase the classic wheat beer style with calorie counts ranging from 120 to 160 per 12-ounce serving.

Non-Alcoholic Options

If you prefer to skip the alcohol altogether, there are excellent low-calorie and non-alcoholic beer options on the market. Brands like Athletic Brewing Co. and Heineken 0.0 offer flavorful non-alcoholic brews with calorie counts often below 50 per serving.

Benefits of Low-Calorie Beer

Benefits of Low-Calorie Beer

Low-calorie beers not only help you watch your calorie intake, but they also offer additional benefits that make them an excellent choice for various occasions:

1. For a Diet: Incorporating low-calorie beers can be an intelligent strategy if you follow a calorie-controlled diet. They allow you to enjoy a cold brew while staying within your calorie goals, making social gatherings and outings more manageable without compromising your progress.
2. Hydration: Even in its low-calorie form, beer can contribute to your hydration needs. With a relatively high water content, low-calorie beers can help replenish fluids, especially in hot weather or after physical activity.
3. Sessionable Drinking: Lower alcohol content in low-calorie beers promotes a better drinking experience. You can enjoy a few without feeling the effects of alcohol too quickly, allowing for a longer and more enjoyable social experience.
4. Versatility: Low-calorie beers are versatile and can pair with many foods. Whether you’re enjoying a barbecue, a light salad, or even a slice of pizza, a low-calorie beer can complement your meal and enhance the overall dining experience.

Best Low-Calorie Beers

Best Low-Calorie Beers

When finding the best low-calorie beers, several options are available that deliver on taste while keeping your calorie intake in check. These brews have a special blend to provide a satisfying drinking experience without compromising flavor.

Whether you’re a fan of light lagers, hoppy IPAs, or smooth wheat beers, there’s something for everyone. Here are some standout low-calorie beers that have gained popularity among beer enthusiasts.

Dogfish Head Slightly Mighty IPA

With just 95 calories and 3.6 grams of carbs per 12-ounce serving, Dogfish Head Slightly Mighty IPA offers a flavorful punch while keeping the calorie count low.

This IPA features a well-balanced hop profile that delivers citrusy and tropical notes, making it a go-to choice for those seeking a hop-forward experience.

Bell’s Light Hearted Ale

Bell’s Light Hearted Ale

Bell’s Light Hearted Ale is a standout option for beer lovers who crave flavor and calorie balance. With only 110 calories per 12 ounces, this beer showcases citrus and pine notes, creating a refreshing drinking experience that won’t weigh you down.

Oskar Blues One-Y IPA: Oskar Blues One-Y IPA strikes the perfect balance between flavor and lower calorie content. With 100 calories and 4 grams of carbs per 12-ounce serving, this IPA offers a hoppy and full-flavored experience without the guilt.

Guinness Draught

Known for its iconic creamy texture and rich flavor, the Guinness Draught surprises with its lower calorie profile. A 14.9-ounce serving of Guinness Draught contains only 125 calories, making it a perfect indulgence for beer lovers who want to enjoy a classic beer with fewer calories.

Corona Premier

Corona Premier is a light and crisp lager that provides a refreshing drinking experience while keeping the calorie count low. Containing 90 calories per 12 ounces, this beer is an excellent choice for those seeking a lighter option without compromising taste.

Samuel Adams Light

Samuel Adams Light

Samuel Adams Light is a well-crafted brew that offers a satisfying beer experience with a lower calorie count.

This beer has 119 calories per 12 ounces and maintains the quality and character Samuel Adams is known for, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.

Best Low-Calorie and Non-Alcoholic Beers

Best Low-Calorie and Non-Alcoholic Beers

For those who prefer to enjoy the taste of beer without alcohol, excellent low-calorie and non-alcoholic options are also available.

These brews provide a great alternative for those looking to reduce alcohol consumption or simply enjoy a refreshing drink without the buzz. Here are some notable choices in the low-calorie and non-alcoholic beer categories.

Heineken 0.0: Heineken 0.0 is a non-alcoholic beer that captures the classic Heineken flavor without the alcohol content. With just 69 calories per 12 ounces, this brew offers a crisp and refreshing taste, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a non-alcoholic, low-calorie option.

Athletic Brewing Co. Upside Dawn Golden Ale

Athletic Brewing Co. Upside Dawn Golden Ale

Athletic Brewing Co. specializes in crafting non-alcoholic beers that satisfy the taste buds of beer enthusiasts.

Their Upside Dawn Golden Ale, with only 50 calories per 12 ounces, offers a smooth malt character with hoppy undertones, providing a flavorful and low-calorie experience.

Clausthaler Original

Clausthaler Original is a German-style non-alcoholic beer that captures the essence of a traditional brew without the alcohol content.

With approximately 85 calories per 12 ounces, this beer boasts a rich malt flavor and a satisfying finish, making it a delightful choice for those seeking a low-calorie, alcohol-free option.

WellBeing Victory Wheat

WellBeing Victory Wheat

WellBeing Victory Wheat is a non-alcoholic wheat beer that offers a light and refreshing taste with just 68 calories per 12 ounces.

This beer showcases the classic characteristics of a wheat beer, including subtle citrus notes and a smooth mouthfeel, providing a satisfying choice for those seeking a low-calorie, non-alcoholic brew.

Partake Brewing IPA

Partake Brewing IPA is a non-alcoholic beer that caters to IPA lovers seeking a low-calorie option. With only 10–30 calories per 12 ounces (depending on the specific variant), this brew still delivers the hoppy flavors and aromas that make IPAs so beloved.

These best low-calorie and non-alcoholic beers represent just a sample of the diverse and ever-growing selection available on the market.

Breweries continue to innovate, providing flavorful options that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for a low-calorie beer with a kick or a refreshing non-alcoholic brew, these selections offer a range of choices to suit your needs.

Most Popular Low-Calorie Beer Brands and Breweries

Most Popular Low-Calorie Beer Brands and Breweries

In addition to specific beers, several brands, and breweries have gained popularity for their dedication to crafting quality, low-calorie brews.

These brands consistently offer a range of options that prioritize flavor while keeping the calorie count in check. Here are a few notable names to look out for.

Michelob Ultra

Michelob Ultra has become synonymous with low-calorie beer. Both beer lovers and fitness enthusiasts adore the variety of light and refreshing options in their portfolio.

Founders Brewing Co.

Founders Brewing Co. is known for its commitment to brewing delicious and approachable beers. Their lineup features low-calorie options that deliver on taste and quality.

Lagunitas Brewing Company

Lagunitas Brewing Company offers a selection of low-calorie beers that don’t compromise flavor. Their commitment to craftsmanship has made them a favorite among beer connoisseurs.

Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.

Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and quality. They offer a range of low-calorie beers that cater to different tastes and preferences.

Dogfish Head Brewery

Dogfish Head Brewery

Dogfish Head Brewery is known for pushing boundaries and creating unique flavor profiles. They have successfully ventured into the low-calorie beer category with options that satisfy beer enthusiasts looking for a lighter choice.

These popular brands and breweries continue to innovate and expand their low-calorie offerings, ensuring that beer enthusiasts have plenty of options while maintaining a balanced lifestyle.

Perfect Food Pairing with Low-Calorie Beers

Perfect Food Pairing with Low-Calorie Beers

Pairing food with low-calorie beers can enhance your overall drinking and dining experience. The combination can complement flavors, balance the palate, and create a harmonious culinary adventure.

Here are some perfect food pairings that will elevate your enjoyment of low-calorie beers.

Light Lager with Grilled Seafood

Light lagers, known for their crispness and refreshing qualities, pair wonderfully with grilled seafood. The beer’s clean and understated profile enhances the delicate flavors of fish, shrimp, or scallops. It can also cut through any richness in the seafood, providing a delightful balance.

Session IPA with Spicy Dishes

Session IPA with Spicy Dishes

The hoppy and aromatic characteristics of session IPAs make them a fantastic match for spicy dishes. The bitterness and fruity notes in the beer help cool down the heat of the spices and provide a refreshing contrast.

Whether it’s spicy wings, curry, or Mexican cuisine, a session IPA can add a layer of complexity to the flavors.

Wheat Beer with Salads and Light Appetizers: Wheat beers' light and smooth texture pairs excellently with salads and light appetizers.

The beer’s subtle citrus or fruity notes can complement the fresh ingredients. Think of enjoying a wheat beer with a refreshing summer salad or a plate of bruschetta.

Non-Alcoholic Beer with Barbecue

Non-Alcoholic Beer with Barbecue

Non-alcoholic beers can be an excellent choice for pairing with barbecue dishes. The malty and slightly sweet flavors in these brews can complement the smoky and savory notes of grilled meats.

Whether it’s a juicy burger, tender ribs, or grilled vegetables, non-alcoholic beer can provide a refreshing and satisfying accompaniment.

Light Lager or Wheat Beer with Light Desserts

Light Lager or Wheat Beer with Light Desserts

Regarding delicate desserts like fruit salads, sorbets, or angel food cake, light lagers or wheat beers can be a delightful choice. Their subtle flavors won’t overpower the sweetness of the desserts.

Remember, these are just suggestions, and personal taste preferences may vary. Feel free to experiment and discover your favorite pairings. The key is to find balance and harmony between the beer and the food flavors, enhancing each other to create a memorable dining experience.

When choosing food pairings, consider the intensity of flavors and textures and the overall profile of the beer. Feel free to ask for recommendations at your local brewery or explore online resources for inspiration.

With the right combination, you can elevate your enjoyment of low-calorie beers while indulging in delicious culinary creations.

Final Thoughts

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, low-calorie beers offer a fantastic option for those who want to enjoy a refreshing brew while being mindful of their calorie intake.

With a wide range of flavorful choices available, you can savor the taste without compromising on your health and fitness goals.

Whether you opt for light lagers, hoppy IPAs, or non-alcoholic alternatives, a low-calorie beer suits every palate. So, raise your glass and toast to a flavorful and balanced beer-drinking experience.

(20 votes, average: 4.80 out of 5)
You need to be a registered member to rate this.

Loading...