Drinking on a Flat Stomach
Social drinking is just part of, well, being social.
There is nothing wrong with it while trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle, as long as you are smart about the choices you make. Of course completely cutting drinking out of your life is the best thing to do but let’s be honest, most people are not willing to make that sacrifice. If you attempt to completely deprive yourself from drinking and are not ready to make that commitment, you will just make yourself go crazy. Instead, use the following tips to help you stay fit and lean while still enjoying social drinking from time to time.
1. Pick and stick to a good drink choice.
There are literally thousands of drinks to choose from when you are out drinking, but be mindful that most of them are full of sugar and calories (two things that are never your friend, especially on a night out). Most of those big, fruity, syrupy drinks can range anywhere from 500 or more calories per serving and 70 to 100 grams of sugar. Which means you are putting an unnecessary amount of extra calories into your body that are loaded with unforgiving amounts of sugar. Using pop as a mixer can also be a hidden culprit due to the high fructose corn syrup that lingers in each serving. Instead, try to stick to a clear alcohol and mixer. A good suggestion would be vodka with water or if you need that little kick, soda water. By adding fruit like lemons and limes, you will be getting some antioxidants and a little vitamin c as well. Steer clear of any drink with tonic in it. Although it may seem like a positive alternative, it too is loaded with grams of sugar.
2. Empty Calories.
Alcohol contains approximately seven calories per gram. This means that you are putting extra calories into your body that possess almost no nutrients. To avoid this causing a downfall in your daily calorie consumption, plan ahead. On nights that you know you are going to be consuming alcohol, eat a dinner that is full of protein and lots of satisfying veggies. This will provide your body with its necessary nutrients and help to control your appetite. Avoid carbohydrates with all your might! A night full of drinking and carbs is the perfect way to start growing that beer gut, if that is the route you wish to take.
3. Wine benefits!
If you are going to be drinking, you may as well drink something full of nutrients and antioxidants, right? Red wine is going to be your best bet for these two things, but white wine is a runner up so really either is a decent choice.
Be aware of how many glasses you consume, as wine is naturally high in calories. Drinking a wine spritzer (half wine and half diet soda) will help lower the amount of calories.
4. Beer drinkers attention, please!
Some people’s thirst can only be quenched by beer and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. You will be surprised to find out that the best way to drink beer is by consuming one or two dark beers instead of multiple light beers. Once again, dark beers are a nutrient and antioxidant rich beverage. On top of that, it usually will take you longer to drink an entire dark beer.
5. Late night snacking is a no no.
It is so easy to fall into the temptation of a post party night snack. Whether you’re thinking pizza, ice cream, or some greasy drive through food, this is going to be a downfall to maintaining your lean physique. If you must have a snack when you get home, try having something prepared. Perhaps veggies or lean protein such as carrot sticks or grilled chicken, as mentioned before carbohydrates and drinking should never go hand in hand.
6. Working out is going to make a world of difference.
Try to fit in a good, high calorie burning workout before you go out for the night. This will get your metabolism going and allow you to burn more calories. It may seem too difficult to bare but try working out in the morning as well. Even if you don’t feel you have the energy, really push yourself as much as you can. You just might be delightfully surprised at how good you will feel after it. Exercising will help you sweat out all of the toxins you put into your body the night before quicker than if you were to wait it out.
Social drinking is part of our society and it is completely acceptable, so never beat yourself up after a night out. It is something we do at bbq’s, to celebrate birthdays, watch sporting events, or just spend time with friends. As long as you drink in moderation and use these tips, you will be able to maintain a healthy and fit lifestyle.
