We are all about the work hard with a side of play around here, so it is no doubt that we like to have a little fun with alcohol every once in a while. When we do partake in adult beverages, we try to be as conscious as possible when doing so. In order to do this, it is important to know what alcohol does to the body so you know how to be smart when consuming it. And what better time than now to educate ourselves on how to consume alcohol consciously.
Alcohol and the Body
When consuming alcohol, the body prioritizes processing alcohol over other nutrients, because of these essential nutrients aren’t always processed and absorbed properly. Just to clarify, alcohol does not associate directly with the deficiency of nutrients, however, it does interfere with the process when consuming alcohol. The nutrients that are most affected are Zinc, Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Magnesium, Calcium, Amino Acids, and B Vitamins.
The Hangover
There are not many who wake up from a big night and reach for something healthy to eat. In our minds, we know we want to grab for something healthy like a green smoothie or avocado toast but usually, our body has a different craving in mind–grease. Our bodies crave grease, salt, sugar or more alcohol to take shake the hangover (or feed it). These dietary choices also have an impact on our bodies. If you are reaching for greasy foods multiple times a week to soothe your hangover, this could be depriving your body of the essential nutrients it needs for your body’s overall health and well-being.
Tips on Consuming Alcohol Consciously
- No more than 1 drink per hour.
- Consume a well balanced, protein and a fiber-rich meal before you go enjoy some beverages.
- Ensure what you are drinking is of good quality. For example, stick to preservative-free wine, organic if possible, good quality spirits, drinks on the rocks, and low sugar cocktails.
- If you need a mixer for your drink, try something simple like a lemon or lime or even a SUPER POWDER or SUPER FUEL.
- Avoid changing up the type of drink throughout the evening.
- For every drink, drink at least 1 glass of water. Plus, a couple glasses before bed.
- Have a lunch and dinner event on the same day? Enjoy a couple of drinks at one of the parties. No need to drink at both or if you do then really restrict your consumption to one drink at each of the two events.
- Don’t drink in order to have a good time. You should be able to have a good time before you start drinking. If you aren’t having a good time, then leave before you start drinking.
- If you are planning the party, then shop around for restaurants that allow you to BYOB. That way you can bring exactly what you want to drink and not have to play a guessing game.
- Take 3-4 days off of drinking per week. Drinking often isn’t ideal, like for the reasons mentioned above.
Plus, many studies have shown some benefits to moderate alcohol consumption, in particular, the benefits of drinking red wine.
If you need some healthier cocktails ideas, then check out these cocktails.
