How Many Calories in a Beer? Light, Regular & Craft

A regular 12 oz beer has about 153 calories, but light lagers drop to 103 and craft IPAs can top 250. See the full breakdown by type and brand.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories are in a 12 oz beer?
A standard 12 oz regular beer contains about 153 calories according to the USDA. Light beers average 103 calories, while higher-ABV craft beers like IPAs can reach 200 to 300 calories per 12 oz serving.
Is beer more fattening than wine?
Per standard serving, beer and wine are close — a 12 oz regular beer has about 153 calories and a 5 oz glass of wine about 125 calories. However, beer servings tend to be larger in practice, so total calorie intake from beer is often higher.
What beer has the fewest calories?
Ultra-light beers like Michelob Ultra (95 cal) and Miller Lite (96 cal) have the fewest calories among widely available brands. Non-alcoholic beers range from 50 to 90 calories per 12 oz.
Why does beer cause belly fat?
Beer itself does not specifically target belly fat. However, alcohol provides 7 calories per gram with no nutritional value, suppresses fat oxidation, and tends to increase appetite. The extra calories from regular drinking often lead to fat gain, particularly around the midsection in some individuals.
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