The Best Types of Alcohol to Prevent Weight Gain.

​It is a well-documented fact that I love to have my cake and eat it, literally and figuratively speaking, especially in matters related to fitness. We all want to stay as fit and healthy as possible but hey, we’re living life. So since I’m no stranger to a drink or three I went in search of some answers related to alcohol and fitness. Keep in mind that no matter what you drink, your body still needs to burn through those liquid calories before it burns the calories from food consumption. While its busy burning alcohol, it will not burn fat. However, there are certain types of alcohol that are said to cause the ‘least’ damage. I asked Dubai based nutritionist Giota Kolimpari about some options.

​Tequila and Gin
 
There's some great news for tequila lovers and I know many of those, although a whiff of the stuff makes me want to rip my nose off. Tequila is a spirit which contains fewer calories than most alcohol although you should break it up with a glass of water to keep your liver happy while you indulge. I am of course referring to 100% clear tequila like El Jimador or Don Julio. Coffee patron or caramel tequila and all those other flavoured variation would be a big fat no. Gin also contains zero calories so feel free to make it your best friend - either straight up if you're brave or mixed with a sugar free option.

Read: Sober up ASAP with these hacks.

​Vodka and Rum
 
As you may have gathered from the above information, clear types of alcohol are usually the lowest in sugar and calories when you compare them to darker types of alcohol. You can enjoy these (in moderation of course) with a mixer like diet coke or sugar free 7Up. Vodka is an option if you can’t do without although Giota Kolimpari recommends cutting vodka out completely and sticking to gin.

​Red wine
 
A study at Washington State University in 2015 found that a compound in red wine helps to convert 'white fat' into 'beige fat' which is easier to burn off naturally so if red wine is your poison, then get excited. Pinot Noir is the lowest carb option out of all the reds. There are about 120 calories in a single glass. Red wine is also found to contain antioxidants which can reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. But can you tell the difference between a Pinor Noir and a Cab-Sav? Or why the last glass of wine always tastes better than the first? (Hint: It’s not because you’re drunk). Click here for my Rookies guide to Red Wine and don’t forget to drink responsibly.

Xx

P.S If you're looking to make more healthy changes (and still want to live your life), have a read with Food Swapping is a way of life or Infused Water is a vibe.

See more Cape Town lifestyle posts here.