Tasty Tuesdays - Alcohol
Today’s Tasty Tuesday is on Alcohol. While it is important to understand the negative impact alcohol has on nutrition, it’s something that can be balanced and used well instead of viewed with guilt. So this week, we will start by gaining a healthy understanding of what alcohol does to your system, and then we can talk about the ways we can enjoy it!
Realistic Effects:
Constricts metabolism and endurance
Inhibits absorption of nutrients
Causes dehydration and slows the body’s ability to heal
Depletes energy sources
Impairs digestion
Contains high caloric levels with little to no fuel for the body
While these are realistic and direct impacts of alcohol, it is also possible to have alcohol beverages in a balanced way. Try a few of these tips the next time you go out for drinks:
Hydrate with more water than the alcohol you are consuming. Make it a goal to drink two waters for each alcoholic beverage you consume.
Eat well with your drinks. When choosing the food you pair with your drinks (or vice versa), opt for the complex carbohydrates (whole grains, veggies, legumes) that will fill your body and supplement the desire for more drinks.
Aim for alcoholic drinks with the least amount of “empty calories.” Good general rule of thumb: the clearer the liquid, the less calories it has. Something like tequila, vodka, white wine will be naturally lower in calories.
Choose your mixer well. The other difficulty with drinks is the amount of sugar you are also drinking. Try club sodas, fresh juice, or on the rocks!
It’s not easy to choose one drink or the healthy option. In these moments, remember your goals and what you are hoping to achieve with your health. It’s always easier to have someone to keep you accountable as well! I would love to be this person for you and even help set goals with you. Schedule time with me with the link below!