Does Alcohol Cause Weight Gain?

How Do We Gain Weight?

Weight gain is not just the product of unhealthy eating. There are numerous other essential factors at play that add to this problem. Its effects are almost immediate. Here are the 2 top reasons why we gain weight:

1. Low-quality calories

Not all calories are equally nutritious. A chicken breast with veggies and buckwheat is way more valuable to our bodies than a cheeseburger from a fast-food place, even though they contain roughly the same amount of calories.

A well-balanced meal is less processed, so it surely contains more vitamins, minerals, and fiber that help us stay healthy and feel satiated for longer. You will notice that when you eat low-quality calories, you gain weight more easily because the food turns into glucose way too quickly.

2. Genetics

It’s not always the lifestyle choices that cause weight gain. Sometimes, it can be a hereditary trait. Researchers have emphasized the massive role that genetics play in weight gain. It may account for just 25% of predisposition for some people, but for others, it may be as high as 80%. But with asugar-free diet, weight loss can become an easy escape no matter the condition.

How to Know How Many Calories You Should Eat per Day?

Calorie count for every individual differs based on age, height, gender, and lifestyle. There may be several other potential factors included. So, simply coming up with a generic calorie count that is decent to consume is not the solution.

If you want to know how many calories you should eat per day, a tailored, personalized program is the most effective technique to opt for. It must take into account such elements as your age, gender, weight, physical activity level, and lifestyle.

How Many Carbs Should You Consume?

Out of your total daily food intake, 45–65% can be carbs such as vegetables, fruits, berries, or whole grains. Alcohol has loads of carbs, too, which means that you might not even notice if you go over your daily calorie budget. Let’s see what other effects alcohol can have on your body.

1. It dehydrates you

Alcohol contains dehydrating agents that make you very thirsty. Drinking alcohol may make you more susceptible to the risks of dehydration. Always get a glass of water with (or after) you drink.

2. You might snack if you drink

Have you ever heard of someone who doesn’t snack when they drink? That’s right. Rarely do people drink alcohol and don’t snack. It might be something that looks as innocent as a pack of nuts or a cheese plate. Either way, you will get over your daily calorie budget. And on top of that, alcohol itself has loads of calories, so this combo is a huge obstacle for your weight loss journey.

3. You drink late at night

People are more likely to drink alcohol late at night. Consuming carbs in the evening can be severely dangerous for your weight loss progress. Fat gain, increase in cortisol, and other unhealthy problems may begin to show up.

Your digestive system needs some time off, too. Ideally, you would follow an intermittent fasting schedule and have your last meal at least a couple of hours before going to bed. Add alcohol, and your eating pattern is jeopardized, putting more strain on your body, health, and overall well-being.

4. Carb amount of different drinks

The carb amount for mixed drinks varies rampantly. While a glass of dry wine or spirits from time to time might not be as harmful, those who drink cocktails or beer every evening along with a snack may quickly put on some pounds. Anyone who indulges in intermittent fasting can control this problem right away.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does alcohol affect the digestive system?

Alcohol directly affects your gut to absorb vital nutrients. Abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloating are some of the most common effects.

2. Can too much sugar give you a headache?

Yes. Both consuming too much and too little of it can cause headaches.

3. When should I have my last drink of the night?

If you want to lose weight, make sure you don’t drink alcohol at least 3–4 hours before going to bed – choose water instead. Such an action will help you reduce weight gain problems significantly.