Eat Right, Drink Responsibly, Stay Healthy

Drink Limited, Remain Healthy

Beer, wine and spirits have become synonymous with celebration, fun and relaxation. Alcoholic beverages have occupied a predominant place amongst enjoyment activities and the current scenario is no different. The quantity differs from person to person but the rule remains the same–drink within limits to remain healthy.

Well-known dietary regulations urge men and women to set limitations on drinks consumed daily–one drink/day for women and two drinks per day for men over the legal drinking age. Anything beyond this limit may result in health issues like high blood pressure, liver cirrhosis and certain types of cancer. Individuals with certain conditions or ailments should definitely forego any form of alcoholic beverage.

The actual serving size of an alcoholic beverage depends on the type of drink:

• .3 liter of a beer or wine cooler
• .14 liter of table wine
• .04 liter of 80-proof distilled spirits

The surprise element here is that moderate consumption of alcohol can lower the risk of heart disease in middle-age and older adults, if they have been following a nutritious diet regimen along with physical exercise. But “beer belly” is a common sight in people who overindulge in drinking alcoholic beverages which are high in calories. One beer contains about 150 calories which may seem alright when drinking, but can add up extra calories over time.

Always drink alcoholic beverages responsibly. Quench your thirst with a nonalcoholic beverage and then move on to drinking an alcoholic beverage of your choice. Also try to drink only while eating, as eating helps to reduce intake of alcohol and slows absorption compared to drinking on an empty stomach.

Get in contact with a registered dietitian nutritionist at www.firsteatright.com to learn more about drinking responsibly and eating right.