Raise a Glass

ISSA's Patrick Gamboa Toasts the Weight-Control Aspects of Alcohol

One of the most common questions I encounter when assisting students and trainers with issues of optimal fitness is "can I drink alcohol and reach (or maintain) my desired weight?" As football season begins, many of us will be debating over the added calories in a tall cool one. Whether you drink is up to you and your doctor, but here are some points on alcohol consumption as it relates to weight management.

Alcohol is not void of calories. Not only does alcohol contain 7 calories per gram (a close second to the caloric impact of fat), most drinks also have a fair amount of sugar. The sugar may be natural, such as in wine, or may be part of a mixer, like that used in margaritas and daiquiris. It is quite obvious that regular, excess consumption of alcoholic drinks can lead to weight gain.

Due to the many examples of excess, alcohol is frequently associated with the "beer belly." However, scientific evidence suggests that responsible, regular, moderate drinking may actually improve weight control and may assist with weight loss . . .

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