EATING too much at Christmas is a common worry for people trying to lose weight —- but experts warn you should be concerned about what you drink as well.
Just one cup of a seasonal classic is worth more than 10 per cent of the average woman’s daily allowance of calories, data shows.
Nutritionists warn it is easy to slurp up excess calories in the jolly season, with many festive favourites containing far too many.
Registered dietitian Daisy Mercer, a nutritionist at MyFitnessPal, said: “Sugary drinks can add up quickly.
“Getting caught up with friends and family during the holiday season is inevitable and you may easily find yourself losing track of what you’re drinking.”
Eggnog is the worst offender, with data from the health and fitness tracking app showing the drink contains 224 calories in one cup – more than a KitKat Chunky, which has 207.
For context, the average daily calorie allowance for men is 2,500 for men and 2,000 for women, according to the NHS.
Experts warn the seasonal cocktail also contains high amounts of fat, alongside another seasonal tipple in Baileys (175 calories).
Isabela Ramos, a nutritionist at MyHealthChecked, told The Sun: “Eggnog and Baileys contain higher fat content due to cream, so moderation is key.”
On healthier alternatives, she said: “For creamy indulgence, opt for a lighter version of eggnog or use low-fat milk in Baileys-style drinks.”
Sugar is another key factor behind higher calorie numbers in the two drinks, as well as mulled wine (178 calories) and cider (165 calories).
Dr Duane Mellor, a dietitian at Aston University in Birmingham, told The Sun: “The variation in energy is partly linked to alcohol, but is noticeably higher in mulled drinks which have added sugar and things like eggnog and baileys, which contain both fat and sugar.”
Experts also warn you should be aware of hidden calories in mixers.
Ms Ramos said: “Bucks Fizz, although seemingly light, may have additional calories from mixers, and Hot Toddy can have added sugar.”
Healthier options include prosecco (120 calories) and sherry (50 calories), she said — although classic spirits may be the least fattening choice available.
She said: “Choose spirits like gin or vodka with low-calorie mixers like soda water or light tonic for a flavorful yet lower-calorie option.”
The NHS recommends adults do not drink more than 14 units of alcohol a week, the equivalent of six pints of lager or one and a half bottles of wine.
Dr Mellor said it is important to relax at Christmas, but make sure you only drink in moderation.
He said: “When looking at alcohol drinks, it is important to be mindful that the UK government states that there are no safe limits for alcohol intake.
“It is also sensible to have water as well as your alcoholic drink, something many people do when eating out, so why not extend that to this time of year.
“Although enjoying yourself occasionally can be good for your social and mental health, this time of year we can be invited to lots of events, so maybe be mindful that you do not need to drink at every one.”
Eggnog – 224 calories (one cup)
Mulled wine – 178 calories (one glass)
Baileys – 175 calories (50ml)
Mulled cider – 165 calories (237ml)
Hot toddy – 130 calories (one cocktail)
Prosecco – 120 calories (one flute)
Bucks fizz – 80 calories (one 150ml glass)
Sloe gin – 83 calories (25ml)
Brandy – 72 calories (35ml)
Sherry – 50 calories (50ml)
Source: MyFitnessPal
