Photo by Kelsey Chance on Unsplash
We’re all familiar with the happiness of sharing a beverage with friends or relaxing after a day. While it’s perfectly fine to enjoy a couple of drinks, it’s also essential to recognise how our choices affect our well-being, especially when it comes to our diet. This is where the valuable connection between eating and alcohol consumption becomes significant, especially when health is on the line.
1. Understanding the Impact
Alcohol, despite its cultural significance, is essentially a toxic substance. It reduces the levels of nutrients in our bodies, disturbs the health of our system and disrupts the balance of our metabolism. By keeping this in mind, we can decide what we eat, allowing us to better control how alcohol we consume and reduce its adverse impacts. Some people go through alcohol rehab because of alcohol addiction, and you may not want to end up there when you can take some preventive measures to control yourself.
2. Hydration is Key
Water is a must-have companion when it comes to alcohol. It not only helps to lower the concentration of alcohol in your system, but it also fights against dehydration, a side effect that exacerbates hangovers and affects your overall health. Make sure to have a glass of water between beverages and opt for water over sugary drinks, which can further dehydrate you and contribute unnecessary calories.
3. Fuel Your Body
It’s never a good idea to drink alcohol on an empty stomach! Eat meals or snacks before events to avoid cravings and impulsive actions. Choose foods, like grains and vegetables, which are rich in complex carbohydrates. These types of foods provide lasting energy and help slow down the absorption of alcohol. Additionally, include protein options such as meats and nuts in your diet, as they can make you feel satisfied and enable you to make wiser decisions throughout the night.
4. Snack Smart
Instead of eating greasy fries or sugary snacks, it’s better to go for fibre-rich alternatives such as fruits, nuts or hummus with whole wheat crackers. These healthy food choices not only help fulfil cravings but also offer essential nutrients and slow down the absorption of alcohol. Additionally, you might want to consider crunchy vegetables like carrots or celery that keep your mouth engaged and prevent you from reaching for another drink.
5. Portion Control
When it comes to drinking, it’s important to practise moderation not only with alcohol but with the food you consume. To keep your portions in check and monitor your intake, consider using plates or opting for small servings. Keep in mind that alcohol can impair your judgement, so being mindful of portion sizes allows you to savour both the food and drinks without overdoing it.
6. Drink Choice Matters
Not all beverages are created equal. Choose lower-calorie alternatives such as beers, wines, or cocktails mixed with unsweetened soda water. Please avoid liqueurs and drinks as they contain a significant amount of calories that can lead to weight gain. It’s important to remember that alcohol provides no value and only adds to your calorie consumption without any benefits.
7. Prioritise Balanced Meals
It’s essential to keep in mind that eating healthy foods should not only be reserved for times when you plan to have a drink. Having a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein throughout the week gives your body the support to handle alcohol more efficiently and reduce its harmful effects.
Remember that mindful eating is not about depriving yourself but rather about making decisions that empower you to enjoy all aspects of life in a responsible and health-conscious manner. So, let’s raise a toast (with a glass of water, hopefully) to the joy of indulgence coupled with a healthy lifestyle!
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