Holiday time is here and we all know what that means – office parties, family gatherings, neighborhood events, and more. And where there are parties there is food (and alcohol) making this time of year very challenging for everyone who is trying to stick to their weight loss plan and avoid the traditional holiday weight gain.

To further add to the challenge, new research suggests that alcohol may contribute to weight gain even more than previously thought. According to a recent study, having a mere three ounces of alcohol reduces fat-burning by about a third. When your body is focused on processing alcohol, your metabolism can slow and this can contribute to weight gain.

In addition, alcohol impacts your weight because it contains calories – lots of calories. Alcohol has nearly twice as many calories (7 calories per gram) as protein and carbohydrates (about 4 calories per gram). And the mixers that go into alcoholic drinks pack a big caloric punch as well. One mixed drink can easily contain 400 calories. To learn more about the alcohol calories you consume, check out this alcohol calculator.

Many dieters try to make up for alcohol calories by eating less. This can easily back fire, however, by causing hunger and overeating later on. Plus, alcohol itself tends to lower inhibitions and stimulate the appetite increasing the likelihood of unplanned eating.

Powerful Weight Loss Tip
        If you want to drink, plan for it just as you do your food.

Most important, of course, always drink responsibly. That being said, be smart about drinking if you’re watching your weight. Use these 5 tips to help you work alcohol into your weight loss plan so you can enjoy it without gaining.

• Always have food in your stomach before you have a drink.
• Have one non-alcoholic drink in between each alcoholic drink.
• Drink plenty of water to quench your thirst and keep you well hydrated.
• Notice and enjoy every sip of your drink to make it last longer.
• Consider light versions, but remember these products are not calorie- or alcohol-free.

Now I’d love to hear from you.

How do you work alcohol into your plans so it doesn’t impact your weight?

Your ideas could be very helpful to other readers so please share in the comment section below.

Meanwhile, if you want help getting off the diet roller coaster, take my free Self-Assessment today at https://njnutritionist.com/freeassessment.

Image courtesy of Nicholas Tarling / FreeDigitalPhotos.net