Alcohol

Who doesn't like a nice cool beer after a warm summer day? Or a glass of wine with dinner? A kegger with friends? Oktoberfest? A fun crazy night out with friends at the bars? Though I still haven't experienced that last one in the States, I'm gonna go ahead and assume a large part of that evening out focuses on the alcohol. But how much do you really know about what the alcohol is really giving your body when it comes to calories or nutrients? Nothing!

Since our 21st birthday's (or even before then) we have been taught about the effects and consequences that can be caused by the consumption of alcohol. However, we never really seem to hear about what alcohol does for our body, well other then the obvious. We all know that alcohol is to be consumed responsibly, that it could cause bad judgement and stupid decisions, but we never heard about how much weight gain it could cause. Alcohol is full of "empty calories". At least that big greasy burger you ate for dinner had some protein and nutrients in it, but alcohol gives you absolutely zero.

One normal beer (12 oz.) on average contains 150 calories. Those calories, while maybe being delicious, offer your body nothing. Alcohol is full of what we call "empty calories". These drinks provide your body with some energy, but absolutely no nutritional value. For that same amount of calories you get from a beer, you could go get yourself a small order of onion rings and a garden salad from Burger King or a Fresco Style Crunchy Taco from Taco Bell, both of which would be more filling than the beer.

Of course there are many different types of alcohols as well, some that can be worse for you than others. The sugary cocktails carry even more empty calories than a beer. A Long Island Ice Tea is full of 780 "empty calories"!! Margarita's also have a bit over 700 calories. That's an entire meals worth or more!! Even a simple Gin and Tonic supplies you with over 200 "empty calories".

Alcohol can be a huge factor in weight gain. Most people don’t think about what beverages they order; but what we drink can have a much larger effect on our weight and health then most people think. In addition to that, consuming alcohol can cause your body to begin craving for more alcohol and for food. You’re going to find yourself reaching for those bar snacks, or chips you happen to have laying around your kitchen. Even though you are consuming calories through your drink, your body’s going to want more. 

The alcoholic beverages could be one of your weight’s biggest hindrance’s. Doesn’t mean you need to stop drinking though! Just like all other good things, remember to consume alcohol in moderation. But remember, the calories in alcoholic beverages add up quick and they can go straight to the belly!