We are two weeks into the New Year and many of us have set our sights on weight loss resolutions.
Courtney Smith, a registered dietitian, diabetes specialist and founder of Keys to Nutrition, told The Post that breaking a critical habit can be the key to lasting results.
While the average active American loses their health-related resolutions about seven weeks into the new year, Smith maintains that cutting back on alcoholic beverages is a proven, multifactorial approach to weight loss.
“Obviously drinking fewer calories from alcohol will help with weight loss, but I think most people don’t know that on a calorie per gram basis, alcohol is very high,” she said.
She explained that protein and carbohydrates contain four calories per gram, while fat has nine calories per gram, and all provide different vital nutrients and satiety for the body. Meanwhile, alcohol offers zero health benefits and clocks in at seven calories per gram.
“Alcohol is almost as high in calories as fat; simply by definition, drinking it will inhibit weight loss,” she noted.
In addition to consuming the calories present in alcohol, drinking encourages mindless eating.
“I think a lot of people end up having a second dinner when they’re having a night out drinking. Basically, after going out or at the end of the night, they’re eating two slices of pizza,” Smith said.
She argues that by cutting back on alcohol, you not only cut back on the calories from consuming it, but also the extra calories that come from staying up late.
Smith notes that ordering alcohol while eating lowers inhibitions and contributes to unhealthy food choices.
“If you’re having a margarita at dinner, you can lean toward the fries over the salad,” she noted.
According to Smith, these choices create a domino effect, and “the next morning, you’ll lean toward fatty or sugary foods to cure the hangover.”
Beyond food choices, Smith says alcohol can also compromise fitness commitments.
“After a night of drinking, you’re less likely to exercise, and if you do manage to get to the gym, you’re less likely to perform at the level you would if you’d stayed sober,” she said.
She encourages those with an eye on the scale and a penchant for better health to try Dry January and maintain moderation throughout the year.
For proof of the efficacy of sobriety, look no further than this retired pet who lost half his body weight after giving up alcohol.
Experts have previously linked reduced cancer risk and improved sleep to a month of sobriety.
“Certainly, a reduction in drinking, even if for a short period, can improve overall body function, particularly in relation to liver function,” Dr. .
A University of Sussex study found that 71% of Dry January participants reported better sleep, 67% said they had more energy, 58% reported weight loss and 54% boasted better skin.
“Taking a break from alcohol or substances in general and focusing on yourself can give you a blank slate: ‘What am I going to do to be social? Take care of my body today?'” Chiligiris said.
“It can really give you the space to think about different coping skills and to recognize yourself in your emotions.”
Smith asserts that while Dry January is a strong start, “people should think about permanently reducing alcohol consumption as a lifestyle change.”
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