Every weekend is a chance to catch up with old friends or de-stress with colleagues with a few drinks. And while it may be easy to say that you're just going to have a drink or two, it is important that you make sure you're not drinking so much that you've already gone beyond your calorie budget before the weekend is even over.
According to Medical Daily, beer is loaded with carbs while cocktails and other mixed drinks have tons of sugar. This is why before you order your weapon of choice, it is advised that you know your counts.
Go to parties and happy hours armed with knowledge. Identify yourself with drinks you should avoid and look for calorie charts of numerous alcoholic drinks.
Pop Sugar also suggests choosing a low-cal spirit, though there is no actual need for you to stick to drinking vodka sodas only. You can ask the bartender if they have low-calorie alcohol brands and request for a low-calorie mixer.
Also try drinking liquor on the rocks. Gin, vodka, scotch, whiskey--no matter what kind of drink you choose, make sure that it's clear as clearer types are easier for the body to handle. However, drink it moderately, so you won't finish it right away and look for the next drink you feel like consuming.
You can also choose to drink wine, which is a much healthier alternative to hard liquor. Though it comes with a few extra calories and carbs, it provides the body several benefits including lowering bad cholesterol and reducing the risk of diabetes, depression and cancer.
Keep in mind that alcoholic drinks are not the only ones that can make you unhealthy. Even if you pass up on booze, it won't mean anything if you binge on buffalo wings and mozzarella sticks. If you're starving, choose something that's protein-heavy but low in fat. Healthier snack alternatives are hummus dip, shrimp cocktail, bruschetta, nuts and salads.
