The Calories in Alcohol
Alcohol has 7kcal per gram — more than carbs or protein (4kcal) and closer to fat (9kcal). But raw calories aren't the only problem.
| Drink | Calories |
|---|---|
| 1 shot of soju (50ml) | about 65kcal |
| 500ml of beer | about 200kcal |
| 1 glass of wine (150ml) | about 125kcal |
| 1 glass of somaek (soju + beer) | about 130kcal |
| Cocktails | 200-500kcal (mixers included) |
Why Alcohol Really Adds Weight
- •Metabolic priority: alcohol is processed first → food calories get stored as fat
- •Fat burning stops: fat breakdown drops 73% while alcohol is metabolized
- •Increased appetite: lowered restraint plus higher hunger hormones
- •The food problem: it comes with calorie-dense bar snacks
- •Sleep disruption: less REM sleep → hormonal disruption
- •Next-day effects: hangover food plus skipped workouts
⚠️
Drinking on an empty stomach speeds absorption and damages appetite control even more.
How Different Drinks Compare
- •Spirits (soju, whisky): pure alcohol, zero carbs
- •Beer: high in carbs, linked to belly fat
- •Wine: contains resveratrol but also calories
- •Makgeolli: high in carbs, has some nutrients
- •Cocktails: calorie bombs from sugar and syrup
Drinking Strategy While Dieting
Full abstinence is ideal, but social life is real. Here's how to minimize the damage.
- •Eat first: protein and vegetables before drinking
- •Alternate: one glass of water per drink
- •Choose food wisely: chicken breast, tofu kimchi, seafood
- •Avoid: fried chicken, pizza, instant noodles, fried food
- •Set a limit: decide your amount in advance
- •Avoid late drinking: minimize sleep disruption
💡
A highball (whisky and soda water) lets you enjoy the occasion with fewer calories.
Managing the Day After
- •Don't skip breakfast: make it protein-focused
- •Rehydrate: water, electrolyte drinks, coconut water
- •Careful with hangover food: bukeoguk or bean sprout soup instead of instant noodles
- •Light movement: a gentle walk, nothing strenuous
- •Adjust today's calories: keep the remaining meals light
What Quitting Does
Average results from 30-day alcohol-free challenge participants:
- •Weight: down 2-3kg on average
- •Sleep: better quality, more deep sleep
- •Skin: better hydration and tone
- •Energy: more daytime vitality
- •Food spending: about 30% saved
“Alcohol works against a diet for more than its calories — it affects judgment, sleep, and the entire next day.”
Sources · Korea Ministry of Food and Drug Safety food composition database