As a former heavy drinker, I never thought the day would come when I would quit alcohol for good. But after years of struggling with my weight and feeling unhappy with my overall health, I knew something had to change.
Breaking the cycle of drinking and overeating was not easy, but it was the best decision I ever made for my health. Not only did quitting alcohol help me feel better physically and mentally, but it also helped me lose weight and keep it off.
Alcohol and weight gain go hand in hand
When I was drinking heavily, I noticed that I was also consistently gaining weight. I would try to lose weight by cutting calories or exercising more, but at the end of the day, my alcohol intake always seemed to sabotage my efforts.
There are a few reasons why alcohol and weight gain tend to go hand in hand. For one, alcohol is high in empty calories, meaning it contains a lot of calories with little to no nutritional value. In fact, one gram of alcohol contains 7 calories, compared to 4 calories per gram of protein or carbohydrate.
Additionally, alcohol can lower inhibitions and lead to overeating or poor food choices. When I was drinking, I would often find myself reaching for greasy, high-calorie foods like pizza or burgers instead of healthier options.
Quitting alcohol helped me prioritize my health
Deciding to quit alcohol was not an easy decision, but it was one I knew would benefit my health in the long run. By removing alcohol from my daily routine, I was able to focus more on taking care of myself and making healthier choices.
Instead of drinking after work, I started going for runs or trying out new fitness classes. Instead of eating junk food while I drank, I started cooking more balanced meals that nourished my body.
This shift in my priorities helped me lose weight and improve my overall health. I started sleeping better, had more energy throughout the day, and felt more confident in my own skin.
Breaking the cycle is not easy, but it is worth it
Quitting alcohol is not easy, especially if you have formed a habit or rely on it as a coping mechanism. It took me months of trial and error to finally kick my alcohol addiction and start living a healthier lifestyle.
However, the benefits of quitting alcohol and losing weight speak for themselves. By prioritizing my health and breaking the cycle of drinking and overeating, I now feel more in control of my life and my choices.
If you are struggling with your weight or your relationship with alcohol, know that you are not alone. Breaking the cycle may be difficult, but it is worth it for the improved health and happiness that comes with it.