How to lighten up your drinks

Here are some tips for cutting the calories, carbohydrates and fat in alcoholic beverages:

• Don't overdo it. Doctors recommend a limit of two drinks a day for men and one for women. You may be imbibing on a special occasion, but stay in control (and have a designated driver).

• Go for lighter choices. In general, wine, Champagne and light beers are three of the healthier options. Still, be aware that they aren't calorie-free — light beers, unlike diet sodas, may have 100 or more calories per can.

• Dilute your orders. Turn a glass of wine into a spritzer by mixing in seltzer water and a slice of lemon, or a beer into a shandy with soda water. You'll have a bigger drink with fewer calories.

• Ask for extra ice. The cubes will make your serving of alcohol smaller and let you nurse each drink longer.

• Alternate drinks. If you're having more than one alcoholic drink, get a glass of water or diet soda between each order.

• Beware of mixed drinks. Some frozen, sugary and creamy beverages can pack more than 800 calories per serving. The worst offenders are anything made of dessert-like ingredients — Irish coffee, pina coladas and eggnog, for example. Also, ask for low-calorie or diet mixers when possible.

• Beware of hard liquor. A single shot may be small, but it can pack anywhere from 100 to 200 calories.

• Eat something. Food in your stomach will slow the rate your body absorbs alcohol, giving you more control over how much you drink. If possible, have a healthy meal or snack before you order your first beverage.