The Effects of Drinking Whiskey
Whiskey: It’s been a popular drink for centuries, but can it make you fat? Ask around, and you will get a variety of answers. While whiskey itself is low in calories, over-consumption can lead to a caloric surplus, resulting in unnecessary weight gain- just like with any other food or beverage. But, of course, for those who practice moderation and sound judgment, there are some very real benefits to drinking whiskey.
Calories
Whiskey has 104 calories per 1.5 oz shot, which is relatively low for alcoholic beverages. To put that into perspective, a can of beer has 142 calories, and the same amount of wine has over 120. But, more importantly, whiskey is low in sugar, carbohydrates, and other components that can contribute to weight gain.
Moderation is Key
It is when you start to abuse your intake of whiskey, that you are in danger of gaining fat and weight. As long as you drink whiskey in moderation, and remain active and conscious of what you eat, then you will find that your waistline won’t expand. But if you find yourself throwing back two or three whiskeys in an evening, well… the results might not be pleasant.
Health Benefits
When consumed in small amounts, whiskey can also offer some health benefits. Moderate whiskey drinking has been shown to reduce stress and improve cognitive functions. It’s a good source of antioxidants, and drinking small amounts can even help improve cholesterol levels.
Bad Habits Can Add Up
The average whiskey drinker should exercise caution, and keep in mind that over-indulging can have long-term consequences. One or two shots of whiskey in a night might not seem like much, but when paired with late-night snacking — as often happens — calories can add up quickly. That same shot of whiskey might only add an extra 104 calories, but when that happens multiple nights a week, the calories can soon add up.
All in Moderation
The takeaway should be that whiskey can be enjoyed as part of a healthy lifestyle if you practice moderation and balance. That means consuming a single or two shots at a time, committing to a healthy diet and exercise, and avoiding additional snacks or meals after having a drink. When done responsibly, whiskey can be an enjoyable form of relaxation that doesn’t have to ruin your waistline.
Enjoy the Moment
Alcohol has long been a part of social gatherings, and there’s nothing wrong with that. A few sips of whiskey can make for a pleasant experience that even has some health benefits. But it’s important to always keep in mind the mantra of moderation. A single night’s drinking doesn’t need to spoil a month of diet and exercise. When you sit back and relax with a glass of whiskey, don’t think about its calorie count – just the moment.
Live and Learn
That’s not to say that it’s easy to practice moderation in all scenarios. The truth is, no one is perfect; binge drinking does happen. But even when it does, it’s important to understand that one night of excess isn’t going to make you gain a ton of weight. Enjoy the moment, and then return to a sensible state afterward. When a situation arises where you’re tempted to indulge, remind yourself of the long-term effects.
Take Care
If you follow these guidelines and practice moderation responsibly, you can enjoy whiskey without putting on extra weight. So, make sure that you drink carefully, and always think ahead. If you put a bit of effort into planning ahead, and controlling your consumption, you can keep your waistline from expanding.
