Alcohol Consumption and Obesity Risk

Numerous research studies have reported that over-consumption of alcohol is associated with many adverse health effects, while moderate consumption of alcohol might actually offer some potential health benefits.   One of the adverse health effects reported to be associated with over-consumption of alcohol is an increased risk for becoming obese.  However, the reasons for this increased risk for becoming obese are not completely clear.  Two new research papers have explored this relationship and outlined some of the reasons that over-consumption of alcohol might lead to obesity.

In a recent review paper, the author examines previous laboratory research and human population studies and reports that:

• Calories provided by alcohol are additive to the rest of one's dietary intake, leading to excess caloric intake
• Drinking alcohol before or with a meal leads to increased food consumption at the meal, also leading to excess caloric intake.
• High intake of alcohol might increase obesity risk.

In a second paper published this month, nutrition researchers examined the relationships between alcohol consumption and diet quality.  To do this, they used nutrition information provided by over 15,000 men and women as part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.   According to the study summary and the press release from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism:

• Former and current female alcohol consumers had substantially higher levels of energy intakes.
• Women who currently consume alcohol had significantly poorer eating habits.
• As the amount of alcohol consumed increased among current drinkers of both sexes, calorie intake increased and diet quality decreased.
• Increased alcohol consumption was related to a decreased intake of fruit in men and women and a decrease in whole grains and milk consumption among men.
• Individuals who drank more were also shown to consume more calories from foods high in unhealthy fats and added sugars.

These two studies do an excellent job of outlining some of the changes in our eating habits that occur with over-consumption of alcohol.  Not only does calorie intake increase in general, but it increases from less than healthy food choices at the expense of healthier options.  While moderate alcohol consumption (1 drink per day for women and 2 drinks per day for men according to the 2005 U.S. Dietary Guidelines) might have some potential health benefits, it is clear that over-consumption of alcohol puts us at a variety of health risks, including the risk for becoming obese.

Following a healthy eating plan is an important part of good weight management.  My Slim and Beautiful diet plan is an easy way to start eating healthier and managing your weight.