Alcohol. How can you resist?!
monkeeface
Posts: 59 Member
Sorry if this is not quite 'food & nutrition' but it kind of is in my mind. Without doubt, my biggest downfall is alcohol. I dont really eat much but I reckon about half of my calorie intake comes from booze.
I take supplements for things like fibre, protein, vitamins etc and if there was a magic 'meal in a pill' I'd take it rather than having to eat actual food! Needless to say, if I stopped drinking then I'd probably lose some weight but I'd rather be able to drink & go to the gym to cancel each other out (in calorific terms at least).
So is there an alternative to alcohol? Something perhaps stimulating but not so calorific? I'm sure most evenings I drink 'cos I'm bored but deep down I know I'd rather not be drinking. I'll have maybe 1 booze free day a week but usually weekends are all dayers so large quantities are consumed. So what can give you a buzz that isn't alcohol?
I take supplements for things like fibre, protein, vitamins etc and if there was a magic 'meal in a pill' I'd take it rather than having to eat actual food! Needless to say, if I stopped drinking then I'd probably lose some weight but I'd rather be able to drink & go to the gym to cancel each other out (in calorific terms at least).
So is there an alternative to alcohol? Something perhaps stimulating but not so calorific? I'm sure most evenings I drink 'cos I'm bored but deep down I know I'd rather not be drinking. I'll have maybe 1 booze free day a week but usually weekends are all dayers so large quantities are consumed. So what can give you a buzz that isn't alcohol?
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Replies
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Honestly? If you NEED a drink (doesn't matter about the amount) that's the definition of an alcoholic and I'd be worried.
In your situation I'd go cold turkey for now and see how you go. Think about it, alcohol will make you no less bored.
Exercise, will give you something to do and boost your happy hormones with the bonus of helping your weight loss.0 -
AA to start. You dont' have to be a fall down drunk to start there. Second, water can be your best friend. You can spice it up with mio or crystal lite to help with the taste. Also, when I gave up alcohol, i picked up exercise. The problem with alcohol is that it's not just calories but it's also a toxin. And bodies don't like toxin's. From studies i have seen is once you induce alcohol your metabolism works really hard to get rid of it. So if you add calories, it stores them as fat quicker than if you weren't drinking.0
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I agree with the others (and you, it seems) that you're a problem drinker. It would help to get into some sort of program like AA or Rational Recovery.
If your routine is drinking in the evenings, then find something else to do. Anything that breaks the routine. Go for a walk, pick a few projects you've let go around the house, visit a friend who isn't going to shove a drink in your hand, take in a movie at the theater, go to the gym, etc.0 -
I love my booze and plan in some spare calories for a of glass of red or two a couple of nights a week. But honestly you can't hope to get healthy or lose fat drinking that much or that often.
Try working it backwards - plan a day's healthy eating that uses up all your calories so you have none left for booze. Work out which days you will drink and stick to those - your liver needs a couple of days off to recover after you've had more than a couple.
Try only drinking out of your exercise calories to ensure you get a proper day's worth of nutrition and a drink is a well-earned treat.
If you have a trigger drink you can't resist - beer or wine, say - switch to something you don't like so much when out socialising. A single spirit with a diet mixer or soda is a low-calorie choice.
Set yourself some rules like never drinking alone and only in a social situation.
To answer your question my go-to drink for non-booze stimulation is strong tea, and plenty of it!0 -
I honestly don't know what can "give you a buzz." For me, it's Red Bull Total Zero occasionally and running on the treadmill. Simple truth is, you need to cut down on the alcohol consumption or cut it out entirely. Seems that drinking six days out of seven is a definite problem and I agree with the other posters.0
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I do drink at least 2 litres of water a day, but theres no buzz from that. Its just to keep my belly full so I dont have to eat.
The thing with exercise though, it doesn't make me feel good. I do it out of necessity not for fun. Not for a buzz. I'm one of these people who don't get this so called release of endorphins which is why I struggle with motivation.
I know that the body uses alcohol calories first & food calories last - which is why I dont eat much. Alcohol DOES make me less bored, thats the beauty of it. But there must be something else that can give you a buzz? (exercise doesn't, no matter how hard I workout).
I've always been dead against drugs but I'm starting to consider getting some legal (prescription) drugs as an alcohol substitute. I would never take illegal drugs, not that legal drugs can be any less addictive.0 -
If you are seriously considering drugs as an alternative and need a buzz, you need to seek help. The above posters are correct, you need a 12 step program of some sort to help you move away from drinking.0
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I've always been dead against drugs but I'm starting to consider getting some legal (prescription) drugs as an alcohol substitute. I would never take illegal drugs, not that legal drugs can be any less addictive.
This screams to me that you have a problem that needs to be addressed professionally.
My dad was an alcoholic. He started as a casual drinker, but gradually began to depend on alcohol to function. It cost him his marriage, his job, his home, and eventually his life. He died at age 63 when his cirrhotic liver hemorrhaged.0 -
Quite honestly you need AA and not any kind of 'buzz', I think you'll find the majority of us don't need a so called buzz to get through the day, it's just something you've got used to. The fact you drink water so you don't have to eat is very worrying and to be honest I hope nobody here gives you advice on how to continue your unhealthy habits.
You need help to quit the drinking and that doesn't mean drugs.0 -
I do drink at least 2 litres of water a day, but theres no buzz from that. Its just to keep my belly full so I dont have to eat.
The thing with exercise though, it doesn't make me feel good. I do it out of necessity not for fun. Not for a buzz. I'm one of these people who don't get this so called release of endorphins which is why I struggle with motivation.
I know that the body uses alcohol calories first & food calories last - which is why I dont eat much. Alcohol DOES make me less bored, thats the beauty of it. But there must be something else that can give you a buzz? (exercise doesn't, no matter how hard I workout).
I've always been dead against drugs but I'm starting to consider getting some legal (prescription) drugs as an alcohol substitute. I would never take illegal drugs, not that legal drugs can be any less addictive.
Why are you afraid to eat?
I would imagine that a terribly malnourished person would feel absolutely horrible while exercising, so I'm not shocked that you find exercise very unpleasant. How could you not when you don't give your body any real nutrition?
Have you considered seeing your doctor and explaining what you've been doing? I would imagine that a general physical with blood tests would show numerous nutritional deficiencies (and possibly some organ problems) that might help to motivate you to try something different. You could also get a referral to a specialist to discuss your issues around alcohol and food.0 -
I agree with the others (and you, it seems) that you're a problem drinker. It would help to get into some sort of program like AA or Rational Recovery.
If your routine is drinking in the evenings, then find something else to do. Anything that breaks the routine. Go for a walk, pick a few projects you've let go around the house, visit a friend who isn't going to shove a drink in your hand, take in a movie at the theater, go to the gym, etc.
See, you'll find this funny (in a strange way!) But I do loads of work around the house, diy etc and my reward..........beer/wine. I go for a walk and theres beer. I see friends and its booze.
And 6 days out of 7 is a good week. Most of the summer has been 7 days a week. I did have 5 days off the other week but then a golf weekend came along & booze was here again!
I know that heavy drinking is not sustainable for everyone but part of me says enjoy yourself while you can 'cos so many people die young.0 -
If you are seriously considering drugs as an alternative and need a buzz, you need to seek help. The above posters are correct, you need a 12 step program of some sort to help you move away from drinking.
Surely everyone needs a buzz from something?0 -
So what can give you a buzz that isn't alcohol?
Caffeinated drinks like tea or coffee?
You resist drinking by practicing-- willpower is a sort of muscle that gets stronger when you use it. Have one less a day, then two less a day, gradually working up to one a day and maybe even quitting. If you can't resist, you've got a problem and ought to admit it to yourself so you can start making changes.
The way you explained your problem, you don't enjoy your day to day life without a drink (or the promise of a drink later in the day). Have you considered AA or Smart Recovery? You have to teach yourself how to enjoy you life without using mind-altering substances.
At the very least, if you don't want to join a group, start to cut down your drinking and substitute other things. Learn to cook? You shouldn't be drinking so many calories, your body wants food. Go to the library? Rent a movie? Church activities? Play video games?0 -
I know that heavy drinking is not sustainable for everyone but part of me says enjoy yourself while you can 'cos so many people die young.
Yep, you included if you carry on the way you're going.0 -
I use to be a very very big alcoholic when i was 21-23, but starting 6 months ago, I started converting to a straight edge lifestyle and now I don't want anything to do with alcohol, drugs or one night stands.0
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This is a great answer. Start out making small changes and work to eliminate. Habits can't be erased, only replaced.I love my booze and plan in some spare calories for a of glass of red or two a couple of nights a week. But honestly you can't hope to get healthy or lose fat drinking that much or that often.
Try working it backwards - plan a day's healthy eating that uses up all your calories so you have none left for booze. Work out which days you will drink and stick to those - your liver needs a couple of days off to recover after you've had more than a couple.
Try only drinking out of your exercise calories to ensure you get a proper day's worth of nutrition and a drink is a well-earned treat.
If you have a trigger drink you can't resist - beer or wine, say - switch to something you don't like so much when out socialising. A single spirit with a diet mixer or soda is a low-calorie choice.
Set yourself some rules like never drinking alone and only in a social situation.
To answer your question my go-to drink for non-booze stimulation is strong tea, and plenty of it!0 -
Surprised by the 'whoah, alcoholic' comments here.
Fizzy water and cordial, low alcohol wine, a change of scenery.0 -
Hey I know what you mean, I used to be in your situation. I was also a 6-7 days a week drinker and I knew that needed to stop, it's just not sustainable and I didn't feel good when I was not drinking. I found a new thrill, a more exciting addiction- adrenaline! It DEFINITELY gives you that high I think you're looking for. Mine came in the form of snowboarding, bit there's lots of things out there you can do to scare the **** out of yourself! mountain biking, skiing, rock climbing, cliff jumping. Adrenaline is the way to go man0
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I say if you are drinking at night because you are bored, find a hobby. A girlfriend, take a walk, go to the movies, ride a bike, go to the gym everytime you think of beer. etc.... Take your mind off the beer. It will eventually be a thing of the past.0
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Surely everyone needs a buzz from something?
Nope.
I'd try antidepressants as it seems that you have some issues- or failing that , you drink coz you are bored- then find a hobby you enjoy instead.0 -
When I cut out alcohol (for about 4 months) it was hard, but I drank club soda and pomegranate juice, which was a fun drink, but way lower in calories and then when I was hanging around friends I didn't feel deprived. I didn't need the buzz though. I hope that you can find a way. AA might be a good start.0
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I have been told by a nutritionist that a lot of alcoholics are undiagnosed diabetics. The body is craving the sugar from the alcohol.0
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Someone tell me this is just a sad attempt at a joke. Please??
Drinking 6-7 days a week, considering prescription drugs for a buzz?! Sounds like you need to get yourself a hobby, and FAST!
I really think you have a serious issue here and could be greatly helped by AA or therapy. Seriously. If you can't find something in your life to occupy your time other than alcohol, you need to go grab yourself a 'What to do when I am bored" book that they probably sell at any KIDS book store. Get creative! Do something! Get a life (in the most serious sense of the term)
Urgh. People sometimes.
And as far as "How can you resist?!" well, simply put, YOU JUST DO. Don't buy it. Don't pick it up. It is called willpower.0 -
One more thing 1 beer = 1 glass of water, at leats youll start drinking half a smuch as your used too. Drink a beer, then a glass of water, beer water...0
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I do drink at least 2 litres of water a day, but theres no buzz from that. Its just to keep my belly full so I dont have to eat.
The thing with exercise though, it doesn't make me feel good. I do it out of necessity not for fun. Not for a buzz. I'm one of these people who don't get this so called release of endorphins which is why I struggle with motivation.
I know that the body uses alcohol calories first & food calories last - which is why I dont eat much. Alcohol DOES make me less bored, thats the beauty of it. But there must be something else that can give you a buzz? (exercise doesn't, no matter how hard I workout).
I've always been dead against drugs but I'm starting to consider getting some legal (prescription) drugs as an alcohol substitute. I would never take illegal drugs, not that legal drugs can be any less addictive.
Why are you afraid to eat?
I would imagine that a terribly malnourished person would feel absolutely horrible while exercising, so I'm not shocked that you find exercise very unpleasant. How could you not when you don't give your body any real nutrition?
Have you considered seeing your doctor and explaining what you've been doing? I would imagine that a general physical with blood tests would show numerous nutritional deficiencies (and possibly some organ problems) that might help to motivate you to try something different. You could also get a referral to a specialist to discuss your issues around alcohol and food.
Yes, I've had tests & I have a slightly fatty liver & so me elevated something or other that is an indication of too much booze. One doctor said I had high blood pressure & another said it was fine. My doctor is aware of these results. I'm not scared of eating but I dont consider it a social event & I eat if I'm hungry but I could happily not eat dinner or lunch because it seems like more calories that I dont need. Plus, I get vitamins, fibre etc from supplements so I tend to function ok.
I realise that most of you reading this are fully converted to a hardcore healthy way of life but maybe there are others that need some stimulation other than exercise? Yes, I admit that I drink too much (than recommended guidelines) & I need help, why else would I be here.0 -
If you are seriously considering drugs as an alternative and need a buzz, you need to seek help. The above posters are correct, you need a 12 step program of some sort to help you move away from drinking.
Surely everyone needs a buzz from something?
No not at all.
I was in your position, I used to drink all of the time and I would drink lots. I ended up getting sick of drinking all the time and just stopped. I have drank maybe 3 times in the last year.0 -
Its hard when your group of friends all drink a lot. I am very sociable. I decided that my health is more important then getting drunk. My thoughts are, when i am healthier i will be able to do more fun things other then get mashed. Plus i was getting so drunk i was being ill. On my weight loss journey, i started seeing that as a good thing so it needed to stop. Now i treat myself to a once a month blow out. I log everything i drink and now i have something to look forward 2. I still go out with my friends who are always rat arsed but i just drink diet coke. I realised i don't need to drink to be social, i also don't need to drink to have fun. When that penny drops for you thats the ultimate buzz! No hangover, pocket full of saved cash, remembering EVERYTHING from the night before, being able to look after the friend whos mashed and my final big plus point.. No horrid drunk photos of you when your already feeling low because of weight issues! Its win win all the way!!0
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The alternative to alcohol is exercise. Get addicted to working out.0
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I hate to agree that this smelly fishy. I hope this isn't a troll thread. There are so many people in the world who truly suffer with addiction issues.0
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It is pretty darn hard to lose weight when you drink alcohol. It's just too many calories that don't benefit you during a weight loss season. I'd say learn to have it on a limited occasion, then when you reach your goals and maintain you need to keep an eye on the calorie level. It is all a give and take.0
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