Stepping up to the bar without a plan can lead to impulsive decisions. You may be tempted to order the trendy new drink or cleverly named specialty drinks. Knowing the right choices to make at parties or your favorite watering hole helps you enjoy the occasional cocktail without wreaking havoc on your diet. Arm yourself with a few basic principles before your next outing, and remember that moderation is key.
Basics
Keep some facts in mind before throwing away all your hard work on a couple of drinks. Alcohol contains 7 calories per gram, all of which are empty calories. It is also considered an antinutrient because it interferes with the body's absorption and use of other nutrients present. The body cannot store alcohol like it can protein, carbs or fat, so it takes priority in being metabolized, causing the body to store those and burn the alcohol immediately. Women have less of the enzyme necessary to metabolize alcohol and are affected by it more than men.
Beer and Wine
With the vast selection available at most bars and restaurants, it can be difficult to make the right one. For those that prefer a cold brew, opting for beers with lower alcohol content, or light beer, instantly reduces calories, with some brands coming in under 100 calories in a 12-oz. serving. When picking a wine to compliment your meal, a 5-oz. serving contains about the same amount of alcohol as some light beers, yet has fewer carbohydrates and yields an average of 120 calories per glass. Drink water between drinks to limit your alcohol consumption.
Mixed Drinks
While many types of liquor boast no carbohydrates, the alcohol content in 1.4 oz. of most liquors has an average of 100 calories. Often the mixers can add up to twice that. When choosing a cocktail, keep it simple by ordering it on the rocks or mixed with diet or club soda instead of sugary juices or regular soda.
Tips to Remember
Be sure to eat before consuming any alcoholic beverages. Alcohol lowers blood sugar, in turn telling the body it's time to eat. Coupled with lower inhibitions, you are prone to making poor food choices and/or eating when you're not actually hungry. A proper meal beforehand slows alcohol's effects on the body and reduces how much you drink.
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