During the holidays the drinks are often flowing, and are typically in abundance at social gatherings. Some simply enjoy throwing a few back when around friends, while others may use it as an easier way to cope with the in-laws.
Regardless of why, it’s important to be aware of ways to make consumption less detrimental during the holidays. Below are some tips for the best ways to consume alcohol.
Set a Limit
Just like eating, a majority of the time people don’t want to drink as much as they do. Once conversations start people are often distracted as to how much they are consuming. If there is another one easy to grab, it’s almost mindless and before you know it, you’re well beyond what you wanted.
The best way to help this is to set a limit before you attend a gathering, and STICK TO IT! Setting a plan and falling off will not help at all. Be ready for it ahead of time, and even ask others to help keep you on track.
Hydrate & Alternate
A big issue to the body is that alcohol is a diuretic, causing you to become more dehydrated. This can greatly inhibit recovery, leading to soreness, fatigue and hangovers the next day.
The best way around this is to consume 1-2 glasses of water after every alcoholic drink. This will help keep you hydrated, limiting the negative effects of alcohol and dehydration, especially the next day.
Choose Wisely
Drinking alcohol brings empty calories that are often filled with sugar. These empty calories can really pack on the unnecessary and unwanted pounds quickly. They also lead to craving more unhealthy foods as well.
The best way to fix this is to choose a drink that will be lower in sugar and calories. Some good fixes are to substitute sparkling water for soda, grab a light beer, or get rid of mixers altogether.
If you do choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation, alternate each drink with a glass of water, and pick the right drinks. This way you can enjoy some drinks and social time, ideally keeping it from being an unhealthy habit.
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