Now, I’m gonna put it bluntly… alcohol is essentially poison to our bodies. Our bodies can only tolerate so much and you could argue that a little bit might be good for the physical health but really, it’s more about the emotional/ social side.
For a lot of people, myself included, it plays a role when I go on holiday. I enjoy cocktails, wine, prosecco etc by the pool or with a nice meal and I’m not going to deny myself of a bit of what I enjoy BUT…
if you’re trying to watch your waistline and/ or you’re on a weight loss journey, there are some things you might want to two consider…
- Calorie (i.e energy) content of different drinks
- Alcohol can make you hungrier and lower your inhibitions, leading to overeating
- Staying hydrated, as alcohol will dehydrate your body
I’m not here to tell you what you should and shouldn’t be having. It’s just about being mindful and owning your choices once you have that info and knowledge…
CALORIE CONTENT:
INCREASED APPETITE:
Alcohol can also increase your appetite and lead to overeating. It lowers your inhibitions and can make you more likely to reach for unhealthy snacks or larger portions than you normally would.
What can you do?
- Limit your intake and be mindful of how much you’re drinking. Setting a limit before you start can help you stay on track.
- Eat Before You Drink: Having a healthy meal before you start drinking can help you feel fuller and reduce the likelihood of overeating or choosing unhealthy snacks later on.
STAY HYDRATED:
Alternate with water or a non-alcoholic beverage OR order water to your table/ take a water bottle to your sunbed or out with you and sip throughout the day!
DON’T WANT TO DRINK?
That’s okay! Then don’t!
Own your choice. It’s okay to say no. Don’t feel pressured to drink just to fit in.
If people have a problem with it, that says waaaaay more about them than it does about you.
***
Ultimately, it’s about balance. You don’t have to completely give up alcohol to achieve your weight loss goals/ look after your waistline, but being mindful of its effects and making smarter choices can make a big difference.
Enjoy your drinks in moderation, and focus on the overall picture of your health and well-being.
