Abdominal weight gain, otherwise known as the beer belly, is a major problem! Beer bellies are commonly associated with one too many pints down the pub and it’s true that alcohol can play a big part in weight gain.
Did you know that a pint of beer contains up to 250 calories and a glass of wine contains the same calories as a slice of cake? This means that your alcohol consumption can quickly add to that pot belly.
Many of us are unaware of how much it’s safe to drink, but it’s important to know.
Women should not regularly exceed 2-3 units of alcohol per day, the equivalent to one small glass of wine. Men shouldn’t exceed 3-4 units of alcohol per day, equivalent to one and a half pints of beer. If you regularly exceed this limit you will not only pile on the pounds, you’ll also be increasing your risk of a host of diseases, including cancer.
If you think you’re drinking too much, here are some practical ways to cut down:
- Make your units go further. Opt for bottles of beer or halves instead of pints and drink them slower. Choose a small glasses of wine and add soda water to make a spritzer.
- Eat a healthy meal before you go out which will help slow the absorption of alcohol.
- Keep hydrated. Hangovers are largely due to dehydration so keep hydrated by alternating alcoholic drinks with soft drinks like sparkling water with fresh lime.
- Be the designated driver. By taking your car on a night out you’ll have a good excuse to stay tea total.
- Many of us have an after work drink to relax, but in reality alcohol can make you feel even more anxious. Try some alternative stress-busters like hitting the gym with friends or running a bath at home and putting some relaxing music on.
- For more information on practical ways to cut down your alcohol intake you can go to www.drinkaware.co.uk
Kim Pearson
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