Michelob Ultra is widely known as a low-calorie beer that’s favored by those who want to enjoy a cold, refreshing drink without consuming too many calories. With its crisp taste and light body, Michelob Ultra has become a popular choice among beer drinkers, particularly those following a low-calorie or low-carb lifestyle. But if you’re curious about how many calories are actually in a Michelob Ultra, you’ve come to the right place!
In this article, we’ll break down the calorie content of Michelob Ultra, its nutritional profile, and how it compares to other beers. We’ll also explore whether this beer is a good option for your health and offer tips for enjoying it in a balanced diet.
What is Michelob Ultra?
Michelob Ultra is a light lager brewed by Anheuser-Busch. It is marketed as a low-calorie beer that’s ideal for those who are looking to reduce their calorie intake while still enjoying a cold beer. The beer is brewed with a blend of premium ingredients, including barley, rice, hops, and water, and it has a relatively low alcohol content compared to many other beers.
The beer is often advertised as “For Those Who Enjoy the Active Life,” appealing to people who want to enjoy a beer without the high calorie and carbohydrate content typically found in regular beers.
How Many Calories Are in Michelob Ultra?
Michelob Ultra is known for being one of the lowest-calorie beers available on the market. A typical 12-ounce (355 ml) serving of Michelob Ultra contains:
- Calories: 95 calories
This makes Michelob Ultra a great option for those who want a light beer without packing on too many calories. Its low-calorie content makes it an ideal choice for people watching their weight or those on a calorie-conscious diet.
Breaking Down the Nutritional Content of Michelob Ultra
Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional content of Michelob Ultra based on a 12-ounce (355 ml) serving:
1. Calories from Alcohol
The majority of the calories in Michelob Ultra come from alcohol. Michelob Ultra has a relatively low alcohol content compared to many other beers, which helps keep its calorie count low.
- Alcohol by Volume (ABV): 4.2%
The alcohol content in Michelob Ultra is lower than that of regular beers, which is typically around 5% ABV. This reduced alcohol level contributes to the overall lower calorie count.
2. Carbohydrates
Michelob Ultra is a low-carb beer, which is one of the reasons it’s so popular with people following low-carb or ketogenic diets. Here’s the breakdown:
- Total Carbohydrates: 2.6g
- Sugars: 0g
With only 2.6g of carbs per serving and no sugar, Michelob Ultra is a good choice for people looking to limit their carbohydrate intake.
3. Fat Content
Michelob Ultra is free of fat, which makes it a good choice for those who are watching their fat intake. A 12-ounce serving contains:
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
Beer, in general, is low in fat, and Michelob Ultra is no exception.
4. Protein
Beer is not a significant source of protein, and Michelob Ultra doesn’t provide a notable amount either. It contains:
- Protein: 0.6g
While the protein content is low, it still contributes a small amount to your overall intake.
5. Sodium
Michelob Ultra is low in sodium, making it suitable for people who are on a low-sodium diet. A 12-ounce serving contains:
- Sodium: 5mg
This is a very small amount of sodium, making Michelob Ultra a good option for those monitoring their salt intake.
How Does Michelob Ultra Compare to Other Beers?
When compared to other beers, Michelob Ultra stands out due to its low-calorie and low-carb content. Here’s how it compares to some other popular beers:
1. Budweiser
- Calories: 145 calories per 12 oz serving
- ABV: 5.0%
Regular Budweiser has more calories than Michelob Ultra, mainly due to its higher alcohol content and fuller flavor. Michelob Ultra, with only 95 calories, is a much lighter option.
2. Miller Lite
- Calories: 96 calories per 12 oz serving
- ABV: 4.2%
Miller Lite is quite similar to Michelob Ultra in terms of calories and alcohol content, with just 1 calorie more per serving. It’s another popular choice for those looking for a low-calorie beer.
3. Coors Light
- Calories: 102 calories per 12 oz serving
- ABV: 4.2%
Coors Light is slightly higher in calories than Michelob Ultra but still falls within the range of low-calorie beers. It’s another good option for those who enjoy a light beer.
4. Corona Light
- Calories: 99 calories per 12 oz serving
- ABV: 4.1%
Corona Light is another beer with similar calories to Michelob Ultra. At 99 calories per 12-ounce serving, it’s a great option for those looking for a light beer with a crisp, refreshing taste.
How to Enjoy Michelob Ultra Without Overdoing It on Calories
While Michelob Ultra is already a low-calorie beer, there are still a few ways to enjoy it more mindfully, especially if you’re keeping track of your overall calorie intake:
1. Control Your Portions
Michelob Ultra is typically served in 12-ounce bottles or cans, but if you’re enjoying it at home, consider sticking to a smaller serving size to keep your calorie intake in check. Opting for a 6-ounce pour instead of a full 12-ounce serving can cut the calories in half.
2. Pair with Lighter Foods
Pairing your Michelob Ultra with healthier food options can help balance out your overall meal. Consider pairing it with grilled chicken, a salad, or some fresh veggies, rather than high-calorie fried foods or heavy snacks.
3. Alternate with Water
If you’re planning to have more than one beer, consider alternating between Michelob Ultra and water. This will help keep you hydrated and ensure you don’t overdo it on calories and alcohol.
Healthier Alternatives to Michelob Ultra
If you’re looking for an even lower-calorie beer or a different option, here are some alternatives to Michelob Ultra:
1. Miller 64
Miller 64 is one of the lightest beers available, with just 64 calories per 12-ounce serving. It’s perfect for those looking for a beer with minimal calories.
2. Budweiser Select 55
Budweiser Select 55 contains only 55 calories per 12 ounces. It’s another ultra-light beer option with a lower calorie count than Michelob Ultra.
3. Corona Premier
Corona Premier is a low-calorie beer that offers 90 calories per 12-ounce serving. It’s similar to Michelob Ultra in both calorie count and alcohol content.
FAQ on How Many Calories in Michelob Ultra? A Nutritional Breakdown
How Many Calories in a 16 oz Michelob Ultra?
A 16-ounce serving of Michelob Ultra contains about 127 calories, which is slightly higher than the 12-ounce serving but still a low-calorie option compared to regular beers.
How Many Carbs Are in Michelob Ultra?
Michelob Ultra contains 2.6g of carbohydrates per 12-ounce serving, making it one of the lowest-carb beers available.
Is Michelob Ultra Gluten-Free?
No, Michelob Ultra is not gluten-free, as it contains barley, which has gluten. However, there are gluten-free beer options available if you need to avoid gluten.
Can I Drink Michelob Ultra on a Low-Carb Diet?
Yes, Michelob Ultra is a good choice for a low-carb diet, as it contains only 2.6g of carbs per serving. It’s a suitable option for people following a keto or low-carb eating plan.
How Does Michelob Ultra Compare to Regular Beer?
Michelob Ultra has fewer calories (95 calories per 12 oz) and less alcohol (4.2% ABV) than regular beer, making it a lighter, more calorie-conscious option.
Final Thoughts
Michelob Ultra is one of the most popular low-calorie beers on the market, with only 95 calories per 12-ounce serving. Its crisp taste and light body make it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a beer without consuming too many calories. While it’s not the lowest-calorie beer available, it still provides a satisfying option for beer lovers watching their calorie intake.
Whether you’re relaxing at home, enjoying a BBQ, or watching a game, Michelob Ultra is a refreshing and lower-calorie alternative to regular beer. So, if you’re looking for a light beer that won’t derail your diet, Michelob Ultra is a great choice to keep your calorie count in check while enjoying a cold, crisp beverage.
