By now we know that binge drinking is bad news and alcohol is not particularly conducive to good health. Women, especially, feel the effects of alcohol faster and suffer from more long-term health damage from excessive alcohol consumption.

Drinking even one drink a day on a regular basis can have fairly significant effect on health. For men, it can result in accumulation of belly fat, especially for those who prefer beer over wine. Heavy drinkers are likely to have more belly fat and a correlated higher intake of calorie rich food since alcohol can lower inhibitions. Though women in general tend to drink wine more than beer, a consistent drinking habit in women also results in increased belly fat.

Drinking alcohol doesn’t just result in increased calorie intake and weight gain, studies show that the body temporarily pauses other bodily functions till it has managed to process all the alcohol. The body cannot convert alcohol calories to fat and will need to use them up. It puts on hold all other fat burning and energy use activities till it manages to metabolise the alcohol. Alcohol also has a significant impact on hormones.

While I don’t drink every day, I do enjoy a glass or two. Of course, I do end up having a bit more at parties, that I inevitably regret the next day. I am not getting any younger and with my metabolism slowing down, the extra calories sit stubbornly around my waistline for ages. It takes at least 5 days to get rid of that extra water retention, and that too only if I’m super strict with my calorie intake and workouts. Honestly, ladies, if you like your alcohol and are trying to lose weight, then I’m afraid you will have to stop it for at least a month, though two would be great.

If you really want to have that drink and your concern is not weight loss and you need to keep in mind a few tips:

Have a small protein snack before you drink, to line your stomach.

Stay away from refined carbs and stick to lean protein and vegetables

Moderation is everything

Avoid heavy sugary cocktails as they are loaded with calories and fat

Have a big mug of hot water with sliced lemon and a pinch of cinnamon the next morning before your breakfast to alkaline your acidic body and to soothe your stomach lining to prevent any kind of bloating and indigestion.

Try out some of the tips mentioned here and let me know how they work for you. Write to me below or using #stayrealstayyou on Instagram @shagunkhanna