To those of us participating in dry January and those of us on a quest to neutralize weight gain, avoiding alcohol is a great solution. Here’s why:

Calories on Calories on Calories

Sure, partying is fun but intoxication brings high calories. In fact, one gram of alcohol is 7 calories. Meaning a standard mixed drink (vodka cranberry, whiskey coke, or tequila tonic) equates to 96 to 125 calories. Times that by your limit (or more) and you basically drink your caloric intake.

On another note, our bodies absorb alcohol quickly and when it enters our bloodstream it doesn’t burn any extra calories – unlike when we digest carbs, fats or protein. And calories that aren’t burned are stored as fat – hello extra pounds.

• Red or white wine: 5 ounces | Calories; 125, Carbohydrate: 4g
• Light beer: 12 ounces | Calories: 100; Carbohydrate: 5g
• Champagne: 5 ounces | Calories: 100; Carbohydrate: 1g
• Vodka, whiskey, rum or gin: 1.5 ounces | Calories: 96; Carbohydrate: 0g

Your Liver Suffers

The liver can only digest one ounce of alcohol per hour which is why consuming more than an ounce an hour leaves you feeling intoxicated.

Low Blood Sugar

One of the liver’s main jobs is to keep the blood sugar levels stable but since it is working so hard to break down the alcohol in your body, it can’t deal with blood sugar as well. Alcohol makes your blood sugar drop making you reach for carbs.

This isn’t to say you should avoid alcohol at all costs, but just be mindful. Instead of having your normal amount of drinks, limit yourself to half the amount. Avoid sugary, high calorie drinks and alternate between having liquor and water to stay hydrated.