The holidays can be an overwhelming time for many. This is especially true if you’re watching the scale. However, it’s not just about all the sweet treats, casseroles and festive food goodies. Alcohol can also pose a problem for holiday weight management as well.
Alcohol and Your Weight
When we consume food, we generally do so for energy and nutrition. Alcohol, on the other hand, is consumed mostly for entertainment as there is generally very little nutrition involved. When we drink, these are some of the effects that alcohol has on your body:
- Appetite – May increase with alcohol consumption
- Calories – Many alcoholic beverages are loaded with extra calories and sugars
- Judgement – May be impaired after drinking. This can affect food and exercise choices, etc.
Healthy Tips for Alcohol Consumption
There’s nothing wrong with a little indulgence during the holidays, so long as you do so in moderation. This time of year, you may be attending more than one party or social gathering where food and beverages are provided. Whether it’s your office party, family get-together or a night out with friends, preparation is key. Being prepared will help you make mindful and healthy decisions while still having fun and getting festive.
Set a Drinking Limit
Before attending an event where alcohol will be served, first set a limit. For example, you might cut yourself off after one or two small drinks so you don’t overindulge. If you arrive with a limit, you can try to pace yourself better and enjoy more of your surroundings.
Eat Beforehand
Second, don’t arrive at any social gathering with an empty stomach. Curb your appetite by having a healthy and nutritious snack beforehand so you’re less likely to hover around the food and drink table. A good idea is to pair a healthy carb with a healthy protein such as apples and peanut butter. This will help you focus less on eating tasty treats and more on spending time with good company. Also, don’t feel embarrassed about packing a To-Go snack for your disposal.
Customize Your Drink
Finally, remember that you can customize any drink to make it more weight-management friendly. Many drinks come with “light” or “skinny” options that are lower in calories. For others, omit the syrups and whipped creams that get added in. If you’re looking to add a sweet and fruity taste to your drink, consider fresh sliced fruit or citrus.
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