Can I lose weight and drink alcohol?

If you like to enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine at the end of your day but are not sure how alcohol affects weight loss, I will tell you it can hinder it. Alcohol has little or no nutritional value in it. It's basically empty calories. Now I love a glass of wine at the end of the day but I also know it has to be limited and I'm not trying to "lose" weight, I am at a maintaining stage. Unfortunately, when you're trying to lose weight, alcohol is the enemy.

As I already said, alcohol is really just a ton of empty calories. Alcohol affects your hormones, promotes fat storage, and decreases muscle growth. It doesn't sound like alcohol is on our side! Nobody needs help getting our hormones out of wack and who wants to store fat? Aren't we trying to get rid of it?! All the hard work towards making those muscles strong gets thrown out the window. It can affect your actions and your emotions. First you're meeting some friends for a drink and then you find yourself out later than planned and end up eating some greasy meal at 1am. You've just blown your calories, your workout and probably not going to feel so great the next day.

If you are going to drink while trying to lose weight, I recommend limiting it to only 2 or 3 nights a week and to one drink. That doesn't mean a drink made in a 20 ounce glass! Those extra calories can add up quickly not to mention how it affects our body. Try and stick with wine. Studies have shown that a glass of red wine can reduce the risk of heart disease. Remember a "glass" is 5 ounces. You might want to measure that out one day to get an idea of what that looks like. Also be aware that alcohol can create a risk of breast cancer. Weigh the benefits and know your family history concerning these risk factors.

If wine isn't what you're in the mood for or you're really not a fan, then you could go with a vodka and club soda with a lime. This is typically the drink I choose if I'm not having wine. Stay away from the drinks filled with juices and all sorts of other mixers. You could end up eating your day of calories with one of these! These "fun" drinks seen below can be anywhere from 500-1000 calories for ONE! Beware!

Remember, it's all about balance. If you want to lose weight quicker, then stay away from alcohol all together. If you are ok with it slowing down your goals, then keep it in moderation.