How to Drink Beer But Not Gain Weight

Weight gain occurs when you consume more calories in food and drink than you burn during exercise. Because beer contains 64 calories--for ultra light beers--to almost 200 calories per bottle or can, drinking an excessive amount of beer can lead to weight gain. However, many people have a desire to continue drinking beer without gaining weight, which is possible.

Instructions

• 1

  Choose light beer. Light beers average 103 calories, where regular beers average 156 calories according to "The truth about calories and beer" published on Fermentedly Challenged on Aug. 7, 2008. There are ultra light beers such as MGD 64 and Michelob Ultra Light. If you think these beers lack flavor, try a traditional light beer such as Sam Adams Light or Heineken Light.

• 2

  Alternate between beer and water. Slowing down your drinking can cause you to drink less and is a popular tactic with dieters. When you're at a bar, order a glass of water after each beer and finish it before asking for the next beer.

• 3

  Drink beer less frequently. You don't have to give up beer to keep from gaining weight, but if you can manage to drink less frequently this will help your overall caloric intake. If you normally drink every day, cut down to every other day. If you normally drink both weekend nights, try drinking on just one weekend night.

• 4

  Remain aware of serving sizes. Draft beer at a bar is often served in a pint glass, which is 16 ounces compared to a 12 ounce bottle or can. If you assume you're drinking the equivalent of a bottle you'll miscalculate your calories by 25 percent.