If you are one of many who have vowed to lose weight by watching what you eat , don’t just think about minding what you eat- think about what you drink, as well. If you’re meeting up with friends for a few drinks after work, you may want limit your alcohol intake during the happy hour.

Alcohol is full of empty calories and although there is no direct link between alcohol and obesity, research has shown it can be a reason to why people may place more on their plate than necessary. Trusted websites, such as Medicine.net reported, “Studies have shown that in the short term, alcohol stimulates food intake and can also increase feelings of hunger. Having your judgment impaired and stimulating your appetite is a recipe for failure if you are trying to follow a weight-loss plan.” A Margarita with chips and salsa may sound appetizing, but the calories in a Margarita drink can be as high as 270 empty calories; a reason the bowl of chips seem endless. Here are few other drinks and their calories to keep in mind the next time you’re out for lunch, dinner or happy hour:

Alcoholic drink                                                           Calories

Beer, regular, 12 oz.                                                     150

Frozen daiquiri, 4 oz.                                                    216

Mai tai, 4 oz.                                                                 310

Margarita, 4 oz.                                                            270

Whiskey, 1.5 oz.                                                           105

Wine, dessert, sweet, 4 oz.                                          180

Some helpful tips to help curb your alcohol calorie consumption are:

• Eat before drinking. Having food in your stomach before drinking will help your brain receive its signal of fullness.
• Sip your drink to make it last longer and keep water available to quench your thirstwhile you drink alcoholic beverages.
• Whenever possible, select light beers, but be mindful that you are still drinking your calories.
• Like wine? Try a wine spritzer, which can be as low as 49 calories and your waistline will thank you for it.

As with all things, drink alcohol in moderation and responsibly, it can help you achieve your weight loss goals.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.