Αlcohol as a liquid it is mistakenly considered to be calorie-free. However this notion is far from true! On the contrary, alcohol is high in calories and it is a significant contributing factor to weight gain. Alcohol provides seven calories per gram (7kcal/g), whereas carbohydrates, protein and fat provide 4 calories per gram ( carbohydrates and protein), and 9 calories for fat respectively.

These calories go unnoticed and they can indeed add up quickly. Except from alcohol, other ingredients in alcoholic drinks, such as sugar, cream and fruit juice, provides us with even more calories (refer to the Table). It should be mentioned that alcohol is an appetite stimulant and can lead to overeating at mealtimes, late at night and even the next day.

Caloric content of various alcoholic drinks.

In order to stay in shape whilst drinking alcohol, you are advised to:

• Have some non-alcoholic or low-alcoholic drinks through the evening instead.
• Choose half pint, small can, small glass, single measure.
• Sip your drink slowly so it lasts longer.
• Prefer to have white wine as a spritzer, mixed with sparkling water as a low calorie option.
• Avoid salty snacks such as crisps and salted nuts because these make you thirstier.
• Don’t drink alcohol if you feel thirsty. Have a glass or bottle of water with you or a jug of water on the table as well as your alcoholic drink.
• Alcohol is a diuretic that is, it makes our bodies lose more water than usual. Drink water or other diet soft drinks in between and/or after you finish your drink in order to avoid dehydration.