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(And How It Can Affect Your Health)
When it comes to our health, it’s important to understand the risks of adding excessive amounts of alcohol to our daily diet. Excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to weight gain and a wide array of negative health effects.
The Calories in Alcohol
Alcohol is high in calories. A twelve-ounce beer, for example, contains over 150 calories. A single-ounce of wine contains around 100 calories, and a 1.5-ounce shot of liquor contains about 95 calories.
The type of alcohol drink matters, too – as some are higher in energy content than others. Margaritas, for example, are known to be higher in energy due to their additional ingredients like juice, syrup, and soda.
How Alcohol Can Cause Weight Gain
Alcohol can not only increase our daily calorie intake, it can also lead us to make unhealthy diet decisions. People tend to binge eat or indulge in unhealthy snacks when they are drinking, which can easily lead to weight gain over time.
Alcohol can also inhibit weight loss if you’re attempting to shed a few pounds. Alcohol can interfere with the body’s ability to break down fat cells, leading to more fat being stored instead of used for energy.
The Health Risks Of Abusing Alcohol
The weight gain associated with over-consumption of alcohol isn’t the only health risk. Alcohol affects the serotonin levels in our brain, leading to mood swings, depression, and anxiety. It can also weaken our immune system, making us more susceptible to illnesses.
Long-term alcohol abuse has also been linked to an increased risk of cancer, liver damage, weakened bones, brain damage, and more.
Seeking Help For An Alcohol Problem
If you or someone you know is struggling with an alcohol abuse or addiction issue, it’s important to seek help right away. There are a variety of programs available to help individuals suffering from alcohol issues, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, inpatient rehabilitation, and outpatient therapy.
Remember, alcohol consumption should always be done in moderation, and it’s important to understand the potential health risks that come with overdoing it.
