Alcohol and Weight Loss Aren’t Mutually Exclusive, Say Nutritionists — Here’s What They Recommend
Certain drinks are better than others.
Summer is fast approaching, which means barbecues, road trips, and swimsuits. Gasp! The first two sound fun, but for many of us, swimsuits are the stuff of post-menopausal nightmares. Proud though we may be of our curves, parading around in a garment that — compared to the sweatpants and flannel we’ve been wearing all winter — feels like it’s the size of a dish cloth, isn’t exactly a welcome idea. That said, if we want to spend time outdoors with our kids, grandkids, friends, and neighbors, showing a little skin is unavoidable. So we’ll work out. We’ll eat well. We will, in essence, shape up. (There is a cost, after all, to all benefits.) One First for Women reader, however, wrote in asking a question that many of us are curious about: Is it possible to lose weight without forfeiting alcohol? We put this question about alcohol and weight loss to our consulting nutritionists. Here’s what they had to say.
Q: I’m trying to lose my muffin top, but I don’t want to give up alcohol. Can I still slim if I don’t?
A: Yes, you can continue to enjoy your adult beverages and still trim your waistline. The secret? Opt for red wine: Researchers at Purdue University have discovered that drinking red wine may reduce the formation of new fat tissue. The credit goes to two plant compounds, resveratrol and piceatannol, which prevent fat cells from growing or storing new fatty tissue. What’s more, resveratrol activates a key gene (SIRT1) that suppresses the production of pro-inflammatory proteins, according to Harvard researchers. This reduces the cellular inflammation known to cause weight gain, diabetes, and heart disease. Rosé has the same compounds, although less concentrated.
If you prefer a fruity cocktail, consider opting for sangria made with either variety of wine. Bonus: The fruit will add filling fiber and other nutrients. Just try to stick to one glass and avoid premade sangrias that may contain added sugar.
Meet our experts
Nutrition experts Mira Calton, CN, and Jayson Calton, PhD, are leading authorities on nutrition and micronutrient deficiencies. They are also the bestselling authors of Rebuild Your Bones: The 12-Week Osteoporosis Protocol. To ask them a question, send an email to health@firstforwomen.com.
This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan.
A version of this article originally appeared in our print magazine, First For Women.
