I’m trying to lose weight and I’m going to a party this week. I was wondering if there are any carbohydrates in rum and diet carbonated sodas.

While an alcoholic cocktail like a Cuba Libra may not contain any carbohydrates, the rum has ample calories because of the proof of the alcohol. For example, a 1.5 ounce shot of 80-proof rum merely contains 100 calories. Three shots of the cocktail have as many calories as pre-packaged frozen meal.

Dissimilar to the pre-packaged frozen meal, the cocktails’ calories do not offer any nutritional value. Nevertheless, the Cuba Libra (rum and carbonated diet soda) contains less than a gin and tonic, screwdriver, sex on the beach, or a whiskey sour. Since, these alcoholic beverages contain calories from both the alcohol content and the mixer; they are of high caloric value.

Fitness tip: Sip selectively on spirits and alcoholic beverages. It will minimize caloric intakes while preventing a myriad of chronic illnesses.

What are the minimum alcohol drinking recommendations for both genders?

While the daily minimum of alcohol ingestion varies for the genders, women should not exceed over one drink per day and men should not consume more than two alcoholic beverages.

What is the fat and caloric difference between regular and light olive oils?

While all oils, including the various olive oils (regular, light and extra virgin), contain equivalent amounts of calories and fat, they represent a myriad of fat types.

The underlying difference between regular and light olive oils can be identified in the taste. Processed with a delicate flavor and moderate hue, light olive oil is similar to vegetable oil. Nonetheless, all choices of olive oil are deemed as heart-healthy.

Fitness tip: Just like butter and other oils, small amounts of olive oil are recommended to avoid extra caloric and fat intake.