Are you curious about how many carbs are in whiskey? If so, then you’re not alone! Whiskey can be an important part of a balanced diet for those who choose to imbibe responsibly, but it’s important to know what exactly is going into your glass. So whether you’re the occasional whiskey drinker or enjoy an adult beverage regularly, understanding more about the nutritional value of this spirit (including carb count) will help inform your decisions to make sure you’re drinking within recommended limits. Here we’ll provide all you need to know as well as some interesting facts and figures on whiskey and carb counts that may surprise even longtime fans. Keep reading to learn everything there is to know about how many carbs in whiskey!
Contents
- 1 What are Calories and Carbohydrates?
- 2 What Is Whiskey?
- 3 The Types Of Carbs Found In Whiskey
- 4 How Many Carbs in Whiskey?
- 5 Can You Drink Whiskey When Attempting to Lose Weight?
- 6 Health Benefits Of Consuming Whiskey In Moderation
- 7 Factors Affecting The Carbohydrate Levels In Whiskey
- 8 How To Effectively Monitor Your Carbohydrate Intake With Whiskey?
- 9 How To Reduce The Amount Of Carbs When Drinking Whiskey?
- 10 Alternatives To Whiskey If You’re Looking To Cut Down On Carbs
- 11 Conclusion: How Many Carbs In Whiskey
- 12 FAQs: whiskey
- 12.1 Is skrewball whiskey keto-friendly?
- 12.2 How many carbs in peanut butter whiskey?
- 12.3 Is whiskey a lot of sugar?
- 12.4 Is a shot of whiskey good before bed?
- 12.5 Is whiskey the healthiest alcohol?
- 12.6 Is whiskey an anti inflammatory?
- 12.7 Is whiskey worse for your liver than wine?
- 12.8 Does whiskey mess up ketosis?
- 12.9 Is 2 shots of whiskey a day bad for you?
- 12.10 Is whiskey OK on keto?
- 12.11 How many carbs are in Jack Daniels whiskey?
What are Calories and Carbohydrates?
Have you ever wondering how many carbs are in whiskey? Before we dive into the specifics of calorie and carb amounts in whiskey, let’s understand precisely what they are. Carbohydrates can be found in all fruits, vegetables, breads or grain-based products, sugars and sugary food items. Therefore it is relatively easy to consume an adequate amount of carbohydrates through your diet as they are one with three major food groups – proteins and fats being the other two. Moreover there exist various types of carbs which fall under three categories:
- Sugars – Nature has provided us with a wide array of energizing carbohydrates that are easy to digest. Foods like fruit, honey, dairy products, sugar cane, and malted grains quickly convert into energy for our bodies–allowing us to take on the day!
- Starches – Fibrous, yet nutrient-packed complex carbohydrates like potatoes, grains, rice, legumes and nuts are a bit more difficult to digest.
- Dietary fiber – Undigestible carbohydrates, or those that cannot be wholly disintegrated by the body’s enzymes, can be found in numerous sources such as whole grains, fruits, nuts and seeds – all of which make up an essential part of a healthy diet.
What Is Whiskey?
Whiskey is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain mash. The grains used vary from region to region, but can include barley, corn, rye and wheat. Whiskey may also contain other flavorings such as spices or herbs, depending on the producer’s preferences. It is usually aged in wooden barrels for two years or more before being bottled and sold.

The Types Of Carbs Found In Whiskey
Most whiskey contains small amounts of carbohydrates, typically less than 1 gram per 30ml serving. These are primarily from the grains used in the production process and can vary depending on the whiskey type. The primary types of carbs found in whiskey include:
- Maltose: A sugar that is created during fermentation and serves as a food source for yeast.
- Glucose: A simple sugar that is also created during fermentation.
- Fructose: A type of sugar found naturally in some grains, and may be added to whiskey as a sweetener.
- Dextrin: A complex carbohydrate made from starches that can also add sweetness and body to the spirit.
How Many Carbs in Whiskey?
A straight 86 proof whiskey shot is an alcoholic beverage weighing in at 44 ml (or 1.5 oz) and contains, approximately:
- Calories: 105 (Varies based on strength of spirit)
- Grams of protein: 0
- Grams of Carbohydrate: 0
- Grams of Fat: 0
- Grams of Fibre: 0
- Grams of Alcohol: 14 (Varies based on strength go spirit)
If a shot of straight whiskey has no carbs, protein or fat, one may wonder where the calories originate. The answer is in its alcoholic content – each gram of pure alcohol contains approximately 7 calories! Therefore, how many calories are found in an individual serving depends on its strength:
- 80 proof whiskey (40 percent alcohol) will contain 96 calories
- 90 proof whiskey (45 percent alcohol) will contain 110 calories
- 100 proof whiskey (50 percent alcohol) will contain 124 calories
Can You Drink Whiskey When Attempting to Lose Weight?
Of course! But, you must watch out for the way that you drink your whiskey – it can still be unhealthy. One shot of straight up whiskey or a glass with water is relatively low in calories, yet other mixers could have quite a few more.
If you combine whiskey and Coca Cola, that’s an additional 150 calories from roughly 39 grams of carbohydrates. A Coke and Whiskey concoction has a caloric intake equivalent to a Mars Bar – I’m sure I’d opt for the former over the latter!
Additionally, be conscious that drinking alcohol impacts how quickly your body processes food. Studies have revealed that alcohol can impede the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins which all leads to slower digestion times and a decrease in energy expenditure. This could pose an issue if you are wanting to slim down swiftly.
Related posts: what to mix with peanut butter whiskey
Health Benefits Of Consuming Whiskey In Moderation
While whiskey certainly isn’t a ‘health drink’, it does contain some beneficial properties. Studies have found that moderate consumption of whiskey can provide the following health benefits:

- Improved Heart Health: Studies have shown that drinking whiskey in moderation may help reduce the risk of heart disease by reducing bad cholesterol and increasing good cholesterol levels.
- Improved Brain Function: Whiskey may also help improve cognitive functioning. Studies have found that moderate consumption of whiskey can help reduce stress and may even slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Reduced Risk Of Diabetes: Studies have suggested that drinking whiskey in moderation can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes due to its antioxidants, which can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Factors Affecting The Carbohydrate Levels In Whiskey
The carb count of whiskey can vary depending on the type and production process. The following factors can affect the carbohydrate levels in whiskey:
- Mash Bill: The mash bill is the recipe used to make whiskey, which typically includes a combination of grains such as wheat, barley, rye and corn.
- Fermentation Process: Different fermentation processes can affect the levels of carbohydrates in whiskey.
- Aging: The longer a whiskey is aged, the more sugars and starches are converted into alcohol, resulting in fewer carbs overall.
How To Effectively Monitor Your Carbohydrate Intake With Whiskey?
The best way to monitor your carb intake when drinking whiskey is to be mindful of the type and amount you’re consuming. As a general rule, it’s recommended that those who are trying to manage their carbohydrate levels should stick with clear spirits such as vodka or gin, as these typically contain fewer carbs than darker options like whiskey. Additionally, measuring out your intake by using a jigger or shot glass can help you keep tabs on how much you’re consuming. Finally, try to find whiskey that is produced with minimal added sweeteners and flavorings as these can contain more carbs than the spirit itself.
How To Reduce The Amount Of Carbs When Drinking Whiskey?
If you’re looking to reduce the amount of carbs in your whiskey, there are a few things you can do. The first is to purchase whiskey that is made using fewer grains or fewer sweeteners and flavorings. You can also opt for low-carb mixers such as seltzer water or diet tonic, which will help reduce the overall carb count of your drink. Finally, you can opt for whiskey that is aged longer, as this will result in fewer carbs due to conversion during fermentation.

Alternatives To Whiskey If You’re Looking To Cut Down On Carbs
If you’re looking to cut down on carbs, there are many low-carb alternatives to whiskey that may be more suitable for your needs. These include:
- Vodka: Vodka is a great option if you’re looking to reduce your carb intake, as it typically contains less than 1 gram of carbohydrates per 30ml serving.
- Gin: Gin is another low-carb option, with around 1 gram of carbs per 30ml serving. It also has a distinct taste and can be used in many classic cocktails.
- Tequila: Tequila is typically made from agave, which contains no carbs whatsoever. Additionally, it’s often low in calories compared to other spirits, making it a great choice for those looking to watch their calories as well.
Conclusion: How Many Carbs In Whiskey
Now you know how many carbs in whiskey right? Pure forms of alcohol like whiskey, gin, tequila, rum and vodka are all completely free of carbs. Small amounts can fit into a low carb diet as long as you stick to straight liquor and avoid sugary mixers. Remember that moderate intake is key when it comes to any type of alcohol consumption and keep your blood sugar levels monitored if you have diabetes.
FAQs: whiskey
Is skrewball whiskey keto-friendly?
Skrewball whiskey is generally considered to be keto-friendly due to its low carb content. Each 30ml serving contains only .46g of carbohydrates, making it an ideal choice for those adhering to a strict ketogenic diet.
How many carbs in peanut butter whiskey?
Peanut butter whiskey typically contains between 2-4 grams of carbohydrates per 30ml serving. This is due to the addition of sugar and other sweeteners that are often used to give the spirit its signature peanut flavor. As always, it’s important to read the label when purchasing any alcoholic beverage in order to get an accurate carb count.
Is whiskey a lot of sugar?
Discover the surprising truth about whiskey – it won’t spike your blood sugar! With only 0.044 grams or no sugar at all per 1.5 ounces, this distilled spirit is a guilt-free pleasure.
Is a shot of whiskey good before bed?
Experience the ultimate stress reduction and anxiety relief with whiskey, the classic choice of nightcap for true badasses. Its powerful barbiturate effect not only helps you relax but also provides sedative properties to ensure a restful night’s sleep. Say goodbye to your worries and embrace the ultimate relaxation with a sip of whiskey.
Is whiskey the healthiest alcohol?
Discover the powerful benefits of whiskey – it’s packed with ellagic acid, a potent weapon against rogue cells and diseases. While wine may offer some of these disease-fighting properties, whiskey takes it to another level. And when it comes to antioxidants, single malt whiskey reigns supreme.
Is whiskey an anti inflammatory?
Unlock the secrets of whiskey’s health benefits. Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, this golden elixir can boost your immune system, ward off diseases, and even shield against Alzheimer’s. Is whiskey really worse for your liver compared to wine? Find out now.
Is whiskey worse for your liver than wine?
Discoveries from a 2015 study involving a whopping 56,000 participants highlight the potential health benefits of wine consumption. Unveiling a lower risk of cirrhosis compared to beer or spirits, this finding brings exciting news for wine enthusiasts.
Does whiskey mess up ketosis?
Contrary to popular belief, whiskey does not mess up ketosis. As long as it is consumed in moderation and without added sugars or sweeteners, whiskey can be part of a healthy ketogenic lifestyle. Just remember to keep tabs on your carb intake – the beverage typically contains around 1 gram of carbohydrates per 30ml serving.
Is 2 shots of whiskey a day bad for you?
Consuming two shots of whiskey a day is not necessarily bad for you, but it should be done in moderation. Drinking too much whiskey can cause health issues such as liver damage and other medical problems related to alcohol abuse. So stick to the recommended limits – no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women.
Is whiskey OK on keto?
If you are following the keto diet, there is no need to worry about compromising your lifestyle with alcohol consumption. Distilled spirits such as whiskey, gin, tequila and rum have zero carbs so they can be enjoyed on their own or mixed with low carb mixers for added flavor.
How many carbs are in Jack Daniels whiskey?
If you’re looking for a low-calorie alcoholic beverage, Jack Daniel’s Black Label Tennessee Whiskey is the perfect option. During the distilling process, all carbohydrates (sugar or starch), gluten, fats and cholesterol are removed so that each fluid ounce contains only 65 calories – making it one of the healthiest spirits available on the market today.

Joe Redburn is the founder of two iconic Salt Lake City gay bars, Club 90 and Trax. He was also responsible for bringing the beer to what became the first Utah Pride celebration. Joe has been a fixture in Utah’s LGBTQ community for over four decades, and his bars have been central gathering places for generations of queer people.