Diet versus Alcohol

Very interesting topic, I have had this question in my mind when I was on my journey of weight loss. Can I drink while dieting? After a thorough research, the conclusion was “Yes” but with a disclaimer – subjected to your own risk.

Basically, every diet that you follow no matter how harsh or how easy-going it can be – the main pillar is calories. Every concept is directly or indirectly proportional to calorie counting. If you want to reduce weight cut down on calories – if you want to increase weight consume more calories. As we measure our height and weight in cm/inches – kgs and pounds respectively we actually calculate our diet in calories and kilocalories.

In saying that – whether or not to have alcohol while you are trying to reduce weight is a big question in many people’s mind especially with alcohol being one of the most popular drinks to enjoy socially and culturally. Red wine for e.g. helps in minimising the risk of heart disease but on the other hand has too much sugar and calories. Drinking too much beer can result in belly fat. Let’s gauge how safely we can enjoy these taste buds craving drinks while maintaining our agenda of Weight Loss:

1. “Everything has a limit”:

A very old and very famous quote still applies to consuming your food and nutrition. If you know that you have to consume certain amounts of calories in a day – count it accordingly keeping your alcohol consumption in mind. It is not bad to have a glass of wine socially but it is definitely not advisable to drink 4 bottles of alcohol any given day may it be your special day.

2. Snacking while Drinking:

It goes without saying, drinks never satisfy your taste buds if you don’t have any snacking alongside. Snacking that are meant to be taken with alcoholic drinks are usually high in cholesterol, sodium and carbohydrates. If you can again limit snack intake while drinking – there are less calories that you are consuming.

3. Sugar Free Alcohol or Less Sugar Alcohol:

The main content of many alcohols is sugar which is concerning in putting on those extra calories on your list. If you can find a drink which has less content of sugar in it or sugar free drinks you can enjoy alcohol without that second thought of putting on those extra pounds.

4. Last but not the least – non alcoholic beverages!

No matter if you are from a state or a city where alcohol is banned, a family where alcohol is restricted or a person who wants to drink while pregnant – the best option for you is to choose non-alcoholic drinks. There are several health benefits related to non-alcoholic drinks. Some research has shown that it may stimulate breast milk production. Drinking non-alcoholic drinks post workout not only energise your body but also rehydrates it. Also improves heart health. Some studies have shown it helps in reducing stress and anxiety and helps in promoting better sleep. Also, you can drink and drive 😊

Priyanka