Beer vs Wine: which is healthier?

Per 100g, Beer has 43 calories, 0.5g protein, 0g fiber, and 0g fat, while Wine has 85 calories, 0.1g protein, 0g fiber, and 0g fat. Beer is the lower-calorie pick, and their protein content is close enough that it rarely tips the decision.

Which has more calories, Beer or Wine?

Per 100g, Beer has 43 calories and Wine has 85 calories, a difference of 42 calories. In practical terms, 12 oz regular beer (153 calories) of beer compares with 5 oz red wine (125 calories) of wine.

Which has more protein, Beer or Wine?

Beer leads on protein with 0.5g per 100g; the gap is 0.4g per 100g (Beer 0.5g vs Wine 0.1g). If you are tracking protein targets, that difference compounds quickly across a full day of meals.

Which is better for a low-carb diet, Beer or Wine?

Wine has 2.6g of carbs per 100g compared to 3.5g in Beer, making Wine the easier fit for low-carb or keto plans. Fiber is 0g vs 0g per 100g, which also affects net carbs.

Can I substitute Beer for Wine?

Often, yes. Swapping wine for beer shifts your meal by about 42 calories and 0.4g of protein per 100g, so adjust portions if you are logging macros. Texture and cooking behavior differ more than nutrition in many recipes, so test the swap in small batches first.

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Beer vs Wine

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Compare Beer and Wine calories, protein, and nutrition. See which fits your diet goals.

Verdict (USDA data)

Per 100g (USDA data), Beer has 43 calories vs Wine's 85. Pick Beer for fewer calories.

Sources: Beer (FDC 168746) · Wine (FDC 173190)

Nutrition Comparison (per 100g)

Nutrient	Beer		Wine
Calories	43	vs	85
Protein	0.5g	vs	0.1g
Carbs	3.5g	vs	2.6g
Fat	0g	vs	0g
Fiber	0g	vs	0g
Sodium	4mg	vs	4mg

Winner determined by: fewer calories, more protein, fewer carbs, less fat, more fiber, less sodium

Source: USDA FoodData Central. Beer: FDC 168746 · Wine: FDC 173190.

When to Choose Each

Choose Beer when:

You're cutting calories (43 vs 85 per 100g)
A typical portion is 12 oz regular beer (153 calories)

See full Beer nutrition

Choose Wine when:

A typical portion is 5 oz red wine (125 calories)
Wine fits the dishes you already cook

See full Wine nutrition

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: 2026-08-13

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