Trying to lose weight? Here’s what you need to know about non-alcoholic wine

Non-alcoholic wine, also known as alcohol free wine, has grown in popularity over the last few years and is a great solution for people who enjoy the taste of wine without the intoxicating effects of alcohol. But is non-alcoholic wine actually good for you? How many calories does it contain? And which brands are the best to try?

In this article, we will answer these questions and more.

Does non-alcoholic wine contain alcohol?

Seems like a strange question, but even wine classed as non-alcoholic can still contain up to 0.05% alcohol by volume (ABV), meaning in many cases, it’s not truly alcohol-free.

Is non-alcoholic wine good for you?

While the lack of alcohol is obviously great if you want to cut down on your booze intake and reduce the risk of alcohol-related diseases,  non-alcoholic wine can never really be classed as a ‘healthy’ beverage any more than its alcoholic counterpart can.  Most have high sugar and sulphite content that can cause allergic reactions or digestive problems in some people. Even with alcohol-free wines, it’s still advisable to be cautious and only drink in moderation.

How many calories in non-alcoholic wine?

The number of calories depends on the brand, type and serving size, however you will generally find far fewer calories in alcohol-free wine than in regular wine. For example, a glass of alcohol-free sparkling wine contains around 33 calories, compared with anything up to 120 calories in a glass of prosecco, while a glass of alcohol-free red wine contains around 30 calories, compared with 90 calories in a glass of red wine.

Which alcohol-free wines have the fewest calories?

If you are looking for non-alcoholic wines with the fewest calories, here are some options you can try:

• Eisberg Sauvignon Blanc: This white wine contains only 29 calories per 125ml glass. It is made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes and has a crisp, fresh and fruity flavour.
• Thomson & Scott Noughty Sparkling Chardonnay: This fruity vegan and organic sparkling wine has no added sugar and only 18 calories per 125ml.
• Ara Zero Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc: With only 23 calories per 125 ml serving, this white has notes of tropical fruit and grapefruit, creating a delicious balance between sweetness and a crisp finish.
• Very Cautious One Shiraz: Very fruity and vibrant with soft tannins and sweet vanillin oak, and only 23 calories per 125 ml.
• Belle & Co Sparkling Rose: A sweet and sparkling rose wine with only 28 calories per 125 ml. Made from a blend of grapes with a delicious, refreshing taste.

How much sugar in non-alcoholic wine?

Alcohol-free wine typically contains more natural sugar per glass than its alcoholic equivalent. The average sugar content for a 100 ml glass of non-alcoholic wine can be anything up to 4g, while a glass of regular wine would normally have half this amount. The reason for this is all down to the way wine is made. In alcohol free wines, the natural sugars found in the grapes are preserved rather than being removed to make alcohol during the fermenting process.

Should I drink non-alcoholic wine if I am trying to lose weight?

Non-alcoholic wine contains fewer calories than regular wine, so in that respect it is a better option for weight control. However, it is not a zero-calorie drink, and it still contains some sugar and carbohydrates that can affect your blood sugar levels and appetite. If weight loss is your goal, you are probably better off opting for a non-alcoholic spirit instead.

If you are drinking non-alcoholic wine for weight loss purposes, you should:

• Drink it in moderation and limit your intake to one or two glasses per day.
• Choose brands that have low calorie content.
• Drink it with water or ice to dilute it and reduce its calorie density.
• Drink it with food or snacks that are high in protein and fibre to slow down digestion and keep you full longer.
• Avoid drinking it late at night or before bed, as it can disrupt your sleep quality and metabolism.

Trying to reduce your alcohol or calorie intake?

If you are looking for more ways to reduce your alcohol intake or lose weight the healthy way, our website features a wide range of useful articles, resources and calculators designed to help you reach your goals. Use our Habit Hacker tool to unlock some great tips for improving your lifestyle, or try our Activity Finder to find local support groups in your area.

You can also register with us today and receive personalised support from our team of coaches who will work with you to create a bespoke action plan tailored to you and your needs. We’ve helped thousands of people across Dorset and we’d love to help you too! Contact us today for more information.

Read more:

• Why does alcohol make you gain weight
• Can you lose weight be cutting out alcohol
• Make mine a mocktail
• How to drink less and still have fun