Many people believe that one of the key elements to weight loss is to cut out alcohol completely. For many people this does work as alcohol roughly contains 7 calories per gram (nearly as much as fat!). Therefore, cutting out alcohol can be the key to many peoples weight loss. However, this is not the be all and end all. Many people find that you can still lose weight without completely cutting out alcohol from your diet.
The key is MODERATION.
When referring to a healthy balanced diet we often use the term moderation as a way to understand how to balance your daily diet. This installs a sense of self-awareness and accountability, which is key to behaviour change.
Knowing and understanding the recommended consumption allowance of alcohol is also key to understanding moderation. Below is the recommended allowance for both men and women.
What threat does alcohol pose to weight loss?
Alcohol contains empty calories - this means that they have no nutritional value
Alcohol is recognised as a toxin in the body - this means that it‘s metabolised straight away and either leaves the body through water or is stored as fat
Alcohol slows down your metabolism - this means that whilst alcohol is present, your body will not metabolise sugars and fats as quickly
Binge eating - drinking a lot of alcohol can often lead to binge eating
Hangover - you are less likely to be physically active with a hangover
This does not mean you need to cut out alcohol, it just means that you need to be aware of the consequences it could have on your weight loss journey. Understanding moderation and being self-aware is the key to balance when it comes to consuming alcohol.
Further information:
Drink Aware: https://www.drinkaware.co.uk
References
NHS, 2018. Alcohol Units [04/12/21]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/alcohol-support/calculating-alcohol-units/
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