We all know that St. Patrick’s Day is more like “national drink some beer day.” But, what is the holiday really all about? St. Patrick, not of Irish descent, is known for establishing monasteries, churches, and schools all over the country. He used these aids to help him convert the Gaelic Irish to Christianity. He used the three-leafed shamrock to help represent the combination of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. St. Patrick died on March 17, thus this day has been commemorated as St. Patrick’s Day ever since.
Why is alcohol associated with St. Patrick’s Day? This is a generalization and a huge stereotype. In Ireland, people drink as a social past time as they do here in America. As it rains quite a bit in Ireland, so the tradition is to hit the local pub for a pint or two. Seems to me that people in America hit the local bar whether it’s rain or shine! So, with that being said, you might as well indulge in some healthy choices of beer if you are going to partake in this festive holiday. Below is a list of the healthiest choices of beer, both foreign and domestic.
Low-Calorie St. Patrick’s Day Beer Choices
These options are based on 12 oz. serving size. None of these contain any fat.
- Miller 64: Contains 64 calories and 2.4 grams of carbohydrates
- Natural Light: Contains 95 calories and 3.2 grams of carbohydrates
- Amstel Light: Contains 95 calories and 5 grams of carbohydrates
- Michelob Ultra: Contains 96 calories and 3 grams of carbohydrates
- Coors Light: Contains 102 calories and 11.3 grams of carbohydrates
- Keystone Light: Contains 104 calories and 5.1 grams of carbohydrates
- Corona Light: Contains 109 calories and 5 grams of carbohydrates
- Bud Light: Contains 110 calories 7 grams of carbohydrates and 1 gram of protein
- Guiness: Contains 125 calories and 10 grams of carbohydrates
- Beck’s Beer: Contains 143 calories and zero carbohydrates
If you want to enjoy a true Irish beer regardless of the calories, the counts look like this:
- Guinness Extra Stout (7.1 oz. serving): 104 calories and 8.3 grams of carbohydrates
- Killian’s (12.2 oz. serving): 163 calories and 14.4 grams of carbohydrates
- Harp (12.2 oz. serving): 153 calories and 13 grams of carbohydrates
- Murphy’s (12 oz. serving): 171 calories and 17 grams of carbohydrates
Drink responsibly and please do not drink and drive as you celebrate the holiday!