Alcohol is one of the most popular social lubricants in the world, but it is also notorious for its high calorie count. The good news is, you don’t have to give up your favorite drinks in order to maintain a healthy weight.

With a few simple tricks, you can indulge in alcohol without packing on the pounds. Here are some tips on how to enjoy your favorite drinks without regretting it later:.

1. Know Your Limits

The first and most important rule of drinking alcohol without gaining weight is to know your limits. This means keeping track of how much alcohol you are consuming and sticking to your limits.

To help you stay within your limits, set a goal for yourself before you start drinking. For example, you could decide to have no more than 2 drinks per night and stick to it. This will not only help you avoid overindulging but will also help you keep track of your calorie intake.

2. Opt for Low-Calorie Drinks

Another effective way to indulge in alcohol without gaining weight is to choose low-calorie drinks. There are many options available on the market today, including light beers, wines, and spirits.

These drinks typically contain fewer calories than their regular counterparts, making them a better choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. For example, a 12-ounce light beer contains about 100 calories, while a regular beer can contain up to 200 calories or more.

3. Mix It Up

If you’re a fan of cocktails, you can still enjoy them without sabotaging your weight loss goals. The key is to avoid sugary mixers like soda and fruit juice, which can add hundreds of calories to your drink.

Instead, opt for low-calorie mixers like water, seltzer, or diet soda. You can also use fresh herbs and spices to add flavor to your drinks without adding extra calories. For example, a vodka soda with a squeeze of lime and some fresh mint is a refreshing and low-calorie choice.

4. Eat Before You Drink

One of the most common mistakes people make when drinking alcohol is to drink on an empty stomach. This can be a recipe for disaster, as alcohol is absorbed more quickly when you haven’t eaten.

This can lead to overindulging and a higher calorie intake. To avoid this, make sure to eat a healthy meal before you start drinking. This will not only slow down the absorption of alcohol but will also help you avoid the late-night munchies.

5. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is key to avoiding the negative effects of alcohol, including weight gain. Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it can cause you to become dehydrated quickly. This can lead to overeating and a higher calorie intake.

To avoid this, make sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after drinking alcohol. This will not only help you stay hydrated but will also help you flush out toxins from your body.

6. Limit Your Drinking Days

Finally, one of the most effective ways to indulge in alcohol without gaining weight is to limit your drinking days. This means choosing specific days of the week when you will allow yourself to drink, and sticking to those days.

This can help you avoid overindulging and can also help you create healthier habits. For example, you could choose to drink only on weekends or limit your drinking to one night a week.

The Bottom Line

Drinking alcohol doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your health or your weight loss goals. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can indulge in your favorite drinks without regretting it later.

Just remember to know your limits, choose low-calorie drinks, mix it up, eat before you drink, stay hydrated, and limit your drinking days. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy alcohol in moderation and maintain a healthy weight.