The Effects of Alcohol on Weight Loss

This month, we are providing information on various health topics, beginning with the impact of alcohol on weight loss. When striving to lose weight, the general advice of consuming fewer calories than you burn still holds true. However, not all calories have the same effect on your body. For instance, 300 calories of broccoli will have different effects on your blood sugar and metabolism compared to 300 calories of cake. But what about 300 calories from alcohol?

Whether it’s beer, wine, or a cocktail, it turns out that alcohol has specific and unique effects on your body’s systems. Some of these effects can make it more challenging to lose weight, maintain weight, and stay active.

If you’re finding it difficult to lose weight despite maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine, it might be time to examine your alcohol consumption, including the type and quantity.

Impact of alcohol on the body

As enjoyable as a mojito or craft beer may be, and as often as it serves as a stress reliever or a social drink, alcohol does not benefit your body in any way. Even the previously touted cardiovascular benefits of red wine have largely been disproven.

Alcohol negatively affects various systems in the body. In the short term, it can affect muscle performance by inhibiting the absorption of calcium in muscle cells, which can lead to cramping.