Holiday Party Drinking Tips: Tips to Enjoy Responsibly

As the holiday season approaches, social gatherings over the holidays often include festive drinks. However, alcohol can sometimes creep up on you without you realizing it, leading to an unexpected influx of calories. In this article, we'll explore some smart drinking tips to help you enjoy the holiday party without compromising your health.

Alcohol and Calories: A Closer Look

While alcohol can be a fun and social part of holiday celebrations, it's important to be aware of the number of calories it contains.

Low-calorie alternatives are a great option if you're trying to keep your calorie intake in check. Light beers, for instance, provide a lighter calorie option compared to regular brews. A 12 oz. bottle of light beer typically contains around 100 calories, whereas the same size of a regular beer packs about 150 calories.

Mixed Drinks: A Word of Caution

Mixed drinks, such as daiquiris, can be particularly calorie-dense. A single 8 oz. glass of a flavored cocktail can contain over 400 calories. This is a significant amount compared to the few hundred calories you might consume in a light meal.

Dieters are often advised to pay close attention to the calories they consume, and this is particularly true for the beverages they enjoy during holiday parties. Many extra pounds are gained due to unnoticed calorie intake from drinks.

Safe Drinking Guidelines

So, how much alcohol is considered safe when it comes to enjoying a night out?

The guidelines suggest that men can consume up to 3 to 4 units a day, while women should limit themselves to 2 to 3 units. Furthermore, the official government recommendations advise that men should not exceed 21 units a week, and women should not exceed 14 units a week.

A unit of alcohol is equivalent to the following:

1/2 pint of ordinary strength lager (1.7% ABV) - 2 units 1 pint of strong lager (5.2% ABV) - 3 units 1 glass (175ml) of red or white wine (12.5% ABV) - 2 units 1 pub measure of spirits - 1 unit 1 alcopop (e.g., Smirnoff Ice, Bacardi Breezer, WKD Reef) - around 1.5 units

Changing Your Drinking Habits

Considering the calorie content of alcoholic beverages, here are some strategies to help you make more informed choices and enjoy your holiday party in a healthier manner:

Eat Before You Drink

Eating a small snack before drinking can help, as it can fill you up and reduce your desire for more alcohol. This ensures you don't miss out on essential nutrients that are crucial for your well-being.

Drink Low Alcohol or Non-Alcoholic Alternatives

When you're planning to have a drink, consider opting for lower-alcohol alternatives or non-alcoholic beverages. This can significantly reduce the calorie intake.

Dilute Your Drinks

Diluting your alcoholic drinks with low-calorie mixers or water can also help in reducing the calorie count. This technique is both effective and discreet.

Drink More Slowly

Try to pace your drinking. Take smaller sips and be mindful of your consumption. This can help you stay in control and enjoy the event without overwhelming yourself.

Taking Breaks

Give your body a break from alcohol once in a while. A gap of 48 hours between heavy drinking sessions can help in sustaining a more balanced approach to partying.

Avoid Snacking While Drinking

Remember that continuous snacking while drinking can significantly add to your calorie intake and fat consumption. Foods rich in salt can also make you even thirstier, which can ultimately lead to more drinking.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the holiday spirit without the guilt of consuming unnecessary calories. Whether you're attending a festive gathering or planning events of your own, these guidelines will help you maintain a balanced approach to drinking.