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Tiffany | November 30, 2020 | 0 Comments | General Health |
Hello everyone! We’re already to week 3 of the Slimdown Challenge—as with the rest of the year, time is FLYIN’! Remember, all health changes take time and it doesn’t happen overnight. Continue to work towards your goals, and don’t allow frustrations to get in the way—but rather make a plan to power through!
Alrighty…into week 3’s topic: Alcohol & Your Health. Whenever I write my blogs, I always like to have a little bit of fun, make a few jokes and for those who know me, can probably imagine me giggling to myself during portions of the time that I’m writing. Certain topics though, this one included, is something I do take seriously and want to be respectful of all who are reading.
We are totally in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season—we just celebrated Thanksgiving, and we are full-steam ahead to the other December celebrations which may look differently this year for you and your family. The things that may look differently:
However, there will likely be some similarities with the holidays this year, as compared to other years. Those things include:
The holidays are a reason to celebrate, and many times celebrations mean alcohol…and lots of it. Alcohol should be consumed in moderation, and there are a few tips and tricks to enjoy your alcohol while staying safe and keeping your health in mind.
When you read “1 drink or 2”…how does that make you feel? Do you ask yourself “well how big are the drinks” or do you feel guilty about drinking more than the recommended amount daily? Maybe you didn’t know that there was a recommended amount per day—and I’m not here to judge, or make anyone feel bad, but rather to bring an educational component about the risks and opportunities for you to sip smarter.
Consuming alcohol, in any amount, does have various risks that should be taken seriously. These risks can include injuries (falls, burns, drownings), health problems (issues managing diabetes, weight, high blood pressure, sleep disorders), and mental health concerns (depression, anxiety).
All of the alcohol risks are scary and should certainly be thought about, but for the purpose of this blog and the Slimdown Challenge…we’re talking weight loss and maintenance, so let’s get into the nitty gritty about alcohol, calories, decision making and SIPPING SMARTER!
Alcohol is not a “free food”—it still contains calories, which if you have a few drinks…those calories can really pack a punch, and that’s not including the mixers to go with! By making changes with “sipping smarter”, you can still enjoy an occasional beverage while keeping track with your health goals.
There’s nothing wrong with indulging a bit over the holidays, but it’s important to remember that alcohol carries many different health risks and may not be the best option for you with your health goals. By making smarter choices, you can remain healthy over the holidays and stick with your wellness plan!
Sources:
Alcohol during the holidays: 4 ways to sip smarter by Jason S. Ewoldt. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthylifestyle/
nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/alcohol-during-holidays/art-20270845
Accessed 10/8/2020
Rethinking Drinking, Alcohol & your health. https://www.rethinkingdrinking.niaaa.nih.gov/
Accessed 10/8/2020