The consumption of alcohol plays a major role in many social aspects of culture and life around the world. Unfortunately, the excess consumption of alcohol has been directly linked to an increase in fat gain.
At 7 calories per gram, alcohol is the second most energy dense macronutrient next to dietary fats. Let's also not forget that most alcoholic beverages contain extra calories from sugar. Think about this, one beer has the nearly the same number of calories as a slice of pizza.
Unlike the calories from protein, carbs and fats our bodies cannot store the calories from alcohol. Alcohol is a toxin which means when consumed your body is prioritising it and making sure it gets metabolised first. If food is consumed at the time of alcohol consumption and especially the over consumption of carbohydrates the body is prioritising metabolising the alcohol which means that the food will be stored until the presence of alcohol is eliminated.
In addition, there are many other adverse effects of alcohol consumption on the body especially effects that can impair recovery and performance.
Given the role that alcohol plays in society, it is unrealistic to expect or recommend that someone completely stops their consumption. Reality is that people have been consuming alcohol for many years and will continue to do so. Unlike heavy alcohol consumption, light to moderate consumption has not been directly linked to weight gain or any negative effects of the body.
So good news, you don't have to eliminate alcohol. Just be educated and mindful of the effects that the over consumption can have on your body. By taking a mindful approach your health doesn't have to be compromised.
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