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As BBQs and warm weather gatherings ramp up, so too does the onslaught of cocktails and wine and beer and sparkly beverage opportunities. And if you're currently trying to lose weight or are in a caloric deficit for a certain body or fitness goal, it can be tough to navigate.
Once you understand how alcohol affects the body as well as easy ways to enjoy drinking (if you want to!) while staying on track, the whole thing becomes less overwhelming. Let's get started...
Alcohol lowers your inhibitions and makes it harder to focus during meals, which can lead to overeating or choosing foods you otherwise wouldn't, says Marissa Meshulam, RDN, the owner of MPM Nutrition.
Plus, alcohol causes your blood sugar to drop which can result in increased hunger and snacking, adds Tanya Mezher, RDN, a lead functional practitioner at Malla.
Even hangovers can impede on healthy eating and exercise. "If we wake up hungover, we are more likely to skip our normal workout class or grocery shopping and, instead, order [takeout] and not move," adds Meshulam. If you decide you still want to drink, keep your beverages light, low-sugar, and low-calorie for optimal results.
Different types of alcohol have about the same number of calories, and a 100-calorie drink on its own isn't going to sabotage your weight loss goals, says Amy Gorin, RDN, the owner of Plant Based With Amy. What makes a drink super filling isn't the alcohol itself, but rather what that bartender is adding to your drink, like sugary mixes and simple syrups.
Keep your drink recipes light and low-cal, according to Gomer. Here's how: