So Christmas has just passed and the BIG 2013 is approaching! We all know as the big ball is about to drop, a steady flow of alcohol will be consumed by many people. I am not a big drinker. Focusing on health and personal fitness has opened my eyes to the various effects that alcohol has on the body. Here are a couple of tips for everyone to think about before this big event begins.

Now, just so you all know what’s in that glass you’re holding…

12 ounces beer ~ 153 to 200 calories
12 ounces of a lighter beer such as bud light ~ 95 to 103 calories
4 ounces of champagne ~ 78 to 105 calories
4-5 ounces of red ~ 115 to 130 calories
4-5 ounces white ~ 100 to 125 calories
1.5 ounces of liquor at 40% alcohol (80 proof) ~ 96 to 110 calories

and last but not least

Remember, these are ballpark figures for only one drink!

If you’re going to booze it up, DO NOT drink on an empty stomach. Try to limit eating high calorie, heavy foods throughout the day too.

My personal advice: Try to hit the gym before you hit the town. If you get the munchies while you are a ‘lil tipsy, a prior workout will help nutrient partitioning which will shuttle incoming calories towards muscle building and repair rather than for far storage

Finally, prevent dehydration using my 4:1 water to booze ratio (liquor) or for beer 2:1. This will help fight hangovers so you can be sure to hit the gym the next day