Worth it or not?

We hear every now and then about the benefits of resveratrol as it relates to red wine consumption. This can lead some to come to the conclusion that red wine is a health food. In reality, given that research indicates an amount of 500 mg of resveratrol is needed to see any health benefits, this would require drinking liters and liters of red wine daily. Hmmmm...not so healthy at that level is it? That isn't to say there isn't any research to show benefits to moderate amounts of alcohol, but it is worth noting that alcohol has some serious considerations for anyone who is concerned about weight and body fat.

Did you know that when you consume alcohol, the body will prioritize all calories from the alcohol ahead of any food calories? This means that your body will use the alcohol calories first for any energy expenditure. This sounds fine until you realise that all other calories (think of any food/snacks you may be eating while you enjoy those drinks) now get "stored" to be metabolised later (uh-oh...when you hear the word stored, think body fat). Considering the decreased inhibitions that alcohol can cause, most people wind up consuming far more food while they are drinking than they would have otherwise. This can lead to a lot of excess calories being "stored". All this, and no mention yet of the amount of calories in the drink itself.

Does this mean, all alcohol should be avoided? Not necessarily, but if weight control is a concern of yours, it's worth considering how much a few drinks on a night out, may actually cost you. Worth it or not?