39. Alcohol and Weight Loss, Do They Mix?
In this episode, we’re answering the question: can I still drink AND lose weight? The easy answer is yes, but there’s more to consider before deciding if you should keep it in your diet while on a weight loss journey. I’m sharing all of the ways alcohol can potentially hinder your fitness journey, and how you can consume it responsibly and still reach your goals.
Key takeaways from this podcast:
- Internal Confidence: Focus on building internal confidence by recognizing achievements in various aspects of your life rather than relying on external factors like alcohol.
- Holiday Season & Drinking: As you navigate the holiday season, evaluate how you can enjoy social events while aligning your drinking choices with your fitness goals.
- Nutritional Impact of Alcohol: Be mindful of the nutritional impact of alcohol, considering its high empty calories, and make conscious choices about when and how you consume it.
- Alcohol and Macros: If you're tracking macros, ensure you account for the calories in alcoholic drinks and allocate them wisely within your nutritional goals.
- Moderation vs. Elimination: Instead of eliminating alcohol, strive for moderation, aligning your drinking habits with your individual goals and preferences.
- Mindful Drinking: Practice mindful drinking by being present, pacing yourself, and making intentional choices to avoid overindulgence.
- Emotional Components: If you recognize that you use alcohol as a coping mechanism for stress or social anxiety, explore healthier alternatives such as journaling, working out, or meditation.
- Impact on Metabolism: Understand how alcohol affects metabolism, considering the concept of "fat sparing" and being mindful of its impact on insulin, cortisol levels, and cholesterol production.
- Exercise and Sleep: Acknowledge the effects of alcohol on exercise performance, recovery, and sleep. Stay hydrated and plan your drinking around your fitness goals.
- Moderation for Fitness Goals: In achieving fitness goals, balance your approach, recognizing that while complete elimination may expedite certain outcomes, moderate and mindful drinking can still be incorporated without compromising your overall well-being.
Deciding if drinking fits in your lifestyle and your goals will always be a personal choice. While you don’t have to cut it out completely, it’s important to understand the role it will play on your journey. No matter what your choice is, I always encourage you to drink responsibly and seek help if you find yourself dependent on alcohol.
To find substance use treatment and information please call 1-800-662-4357
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The Redefine Beautiful Podcast was created to help bridge the gap between physical and mental health. Through personal stories of survival, adaptation, self-discovery and growth, my goal is to help you realize you’re not alone. You matter. Your mental health matters. Together, we are going to redefine beautiful, one episode at a time. xx
If you want more from me, be sure to follow along on IG @lifting.faith and @redefinebeautifulpod or visit my website at gosimplyfit.com
Looking to start your health journey, but not sure where to start? Book a free consultation with Faith!
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