Sometimes nothing beats a cold beer or wine on a hot Summer’s day – or after a week of hard work! While embarking on your journey to a fitter, healthier you, do you need to put the glass down completely?
According to Mark Sisson, Author of The Primal Blueprint, some indulgences such as alcohol can actually promote health when consumed sensibly.
“Red wine is the superior alcoholic choice for it’s impressive antioxidant benefits” suggests Sisson. “Beer is marginal (it is made from grain), while hard liquor and mixed drinks using sweetened beverages are the most objectionable. Note that alcohol calories (at seven per gram) are devoid of nutritional value and are generally the first to burn when ingested. This means the burning of stored fat is interrupted”.
Chocolate often gets lumped in with alcohol in the ‘naughty’ basket. Dark chocolate (containing at least 65% cocoa) has been proven to be high in antioxidants, help prevent tooth decay and help reduce stress hormones. The recommended serve is 25 grams – any more than this is over indulging.
Moderation is key when it comes to alcohol and chocolate consumption. You can’t expect to drink a bottle of wine and eat a block of chocolate each night and lose weight at the same time, but a glass or two and a couple of squares every now and again won’t undo all your hard work!
