Drinking alcohol is something that many of us do as a way to relax and enjoy ourselves. However if you are someone that is trying to lose fat and get in into better shape then it is best to avoid alcohol all together if possible.
With it coming up to Christmas I'm sure most of us reading this article will be having a glass of our favourite tipple. With that in mind and the new year just around the corner here are some tips to help you to detoxify if you do have one to many over the festive season.
First of all I will point out that alcohol holds 7 calories per gram which is nearly double that of protein and carbs and when you drink it all other bodily processes are put on hold until the alcohol has been processed, including the burning of carbohydrates and fat for energy.Alcohol also causes a decrease in the production of growth hormone, this particular hormone is one which plays a big role in the burning of fat and building of muscle. In short alcohol is an 'anti-nutrient'
Alcohol is metabolised by the liver. Excessive drinking can cause damage and fat gain inside the liver. If you drink responsibly there are ways to speed the detoxification process. Curcumin, green tea and milk thistle have all been shown to reduce the effects that alcohol has on the body helps to eliminate it.
Curcumin is found in turmeric and studies have shown that it may protect the liver from alcohol.Green tea can protect the liver. Researchers have also found that the antioxidants found within green tea help reduce the uptake of alcohol once it reaches the gastrointestinal tract which reduces the inflammatory response alcohol can bring and helps faster detoxification - less of a hangover. Milk thistle can protect the liver from damage and helps to rid the body of toxins.
When you are going to be having alcohol try to make sure that you have plenty of water before and afterwards to rehydrate yourself properly.Eat a high protein and low carbohydrate meal consisting of meat and vegetables before drinking to minimise any cravings for bad food during and the day after drinking.
When you have had too much alcohol its a well known fact that you can become severely dehydrated. When you become dehydrated you may mistake the feeling for being hungry. Always try to have some water in the aftermath of a couple of drinks to help rehydrate. Then if you are still hungry aim for a high protein and veg meal.
