Can I have a glass of wine and still lose weight? This is a common question for patients going through our weight loss programs. The answer is Yes. However, making smart choices when consuming alcohol is very important for long-term weight management.

Tip #1: Before going out, have a balanced meal or snack consuming of protein, fiber, and fat.  This will help to stabilize blood sugar levels and help keep cravings controlled.  Greek yogurt with berries, a meal replacement shake or bar, or an apple with nut butter are all good choices.  This will slow the absorption of alcohol 

Tip #2: Choose your drink wisely.  Stay clear of sweet, sugary drinks with heavy syrups.  Keeping it simple with a light beer or small glass of wine to best keep hunger at bay.

Here's a breakdown of calories in popular alcoholic beverages:

• 1 vodka soda: 64 calories.
• 1 glass of white wine: 100 calories.
• 1 glass of sparkling wine: 100 calories.
• 1 glass of red wine: 120 calories.
• 1 full-strength beer: 155 calories.
• 1 light beer: 100 calories
• 1 old-fashioned: 150 calories.
• 1 gin and tonic: 200 calories.

Tip #3: Stick to 1-2 drinks.  Having more than this can really add up in extra calories and certainly show on your waistline. Binge drinking can result in significant weight gain over time. Heavy drinking can also get you quickly off track with impulsive food choices. Don’t ruin your hard work all week by overdoing it on the weekend.

For questions about our weight loss programs please visit us at WeightLossNebraska.com.