Beware: That Glass of Holiday Cheer Packs Calories

The holidays bring many temptations of both food and alcohol. Many people don’t realize how many calories there are in alcohol. An alcoholic beverage can have more calories than the dessert you just turned down. A 10-ounce piña colada drink can weigh in at 550 calories. Drinking can also trigger eating cues, making you more likely to indulge in foods that are not so nutritious.

Obesity is a growing problem, and many people are trying hard to make healthy choices and control their food intake. What is often forgotten is that alcohol can affect your waistline, as well as your mental functioning and physical health. If you eat or drink an extra 3,500 calories during the week, you will gain a pound.

You can enjoy small amounts of alcohol and still maintain or even lose weight. The key is to be aware of the facts and follow some of these helpful tips.

How many calories are you drinking?

Since weight gain and loss depend on calorie intake, it makes sense to factor in alcohol intake. However, most people are unaware of how many calories are actually in a drink. It’s easy to overdo it without realizing it.

Listed below are some common drinks and their calories. These are average drink sizes, so keep in mind that a larger glass means more calories.

Avoiding Alcohol

If you want to avoid the extra calories in alcohol completely, then avoid the alcohol. It’s not always easy to be in a holiday social setting without drinking alcohol. You may even experience some peer pressure. The key is to refuse politely and firmly. Some people find it helpful to practice how they’ll respond to a drink offer before they arrive at the party or function:

• Keep it simple. Just say “no thanks”, or gesture
• Offer an explanation. Be honest and state, “I am cutting back on my calories”
• Suggest an alternative. Ask for a sparkling water and juice instead, or have a non-alcoholic beer

Strategies for smart drinking

• If you’re going to drink, do so in moderation.
• Check with your doctor before drinking any alcohol if you take medications (including any over-the-counter drugs), or if you have a medical condition
• Think about those calories
• Never drink on an empty stomach
• Drink slowly and alternate alcoholic drinks with water or seltzer
• Dilute alcoholic drinks with water or ice
• Substitute a lower-calorie drink
• Don’t bring a bottle of alcohol or wine as a gift
• Be a role model for your children, and drink in moderation.
• And never drink and drive

Related articles

• Tips for parents: Alcohol and Drug Use
• Someone you know have an alcohol problem?
• FAQs about alcohol

For more information about alcohol or addition, visit www.achievesolutions.net/ups.