Beer?

AndrewXB9
AndrewXB9 Posts: 114
in Food and Nutrition
Hello all :) Basically I am a great lover of beer. As you can see from my ticker I have lost a bit of weight so far and closing in on my goal. It's starting to get a bit warmer and sunny outside and this makes me crave beer!

My question is this; In what way does beer affect weight loss? Does it stall it? Slow it down? I am looking to maybe drink 1-2 bottles of beer every so often to get rid of the urge (Will fit in to my daily calories)

Thanks for any information :)

EDIT: The reason I ask is mainly due to the fact when I have been trying to research the topic on the internet I'm whacked in the face by so many conflicting pieces of information.

Replies

  • melsinct
    melsinct Posts: 3,512 Member
    I have been drinking wine and beer all while losing 30 pounds and maintaining that loss for over a year. Now go enjoy that beer!
  • AndrewXB9
    AndrewXB9 Posts: 114
    I have been drinking wine and beer all while losing 30 pounds and maintaining that loss for over a year. Now go enjoy that beer!

    Roughly how much do you drink and how often? If you don't mind me asking :) I could literally kill for a bottle of Stella right now.
  • callybobuffalo
    callybobuffalo Posts: 7
    Your body processes alcohol first, before fat, protein, or carbs. Thus drinking slows down the burning of fat.
  • AndrewXB9
    AndrewXB9 Posts: 114
    Your body processes alcohol first, before fat, protein, or carbs. Thus drinking slows down the burning of fat.

    Thank you for the information.

    So the less fat you eat in a day the better anyway?
  • amynicole0410
    amynicole0410 Posts: 41
    Alcohol slows your metabolism for awhile because of the way your liver processes it. It's also high-carb and, more importantly, high calorie. That said, life is just better with a beer here and there. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation (as with all things! ;) ) and work it into your daily calorie allowance.

    Maybe these will help a bit with that:

    www.getdrunknotfat.com
    www.beer100.com/beercalories.htm
    http://www.askmen.com/sports/foodcourt_150/150_eating_well.html


    Congrats on the weight you've already lost!
  • AndrewXB9
    AndrewXB9 Posts: 114
    Alcohol slows your metabolism for awhile because of the way your liver processes it. It's also high-carb and, more importantly, high calorie. That said, life is just better with a beer here and there. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation (as with all things! ;) ) and work it into your daily calorie allowance.

    Maybe these will help a bit with that:

    www.getdrunknotfat.com
    www.beer100.com/beercalories.htm
    http://www.askmen.com/sports/foodcourt_150/150_eating_well.html


    Congrats on the weight you've already lost!

    Thank you. I'm only planning on drinking 1-2 beers every so often. Im guessing this does not have a large affect?

    Thank you for the nice words :)
  • kellijauch
    kellijauch Posts: 379 Member
    I think it's okay to have a drink or two every now and again. Just make sure you are tracking it and including it in your calorie count for the day (same for all drinks). When I have a glass of wine or a mixed drink, I just add it on into the snacks category and make sure I am still on track calorie wise. Can't really get drunk and stay on track, but you can enjoy your favorite beverage in moderation.
  • xiamjackie
    xiamjackie Posts: 611 Member
    I love beer and I couldn't give it up if I tried. (I probably COULD, but I refuse to)

    That being said, I choose specific events or days that I can drink and I limit it to those days so that I don't come home every night and expect to have a beer.
  • amynicole0410
    amynicole0410 Posts: 41
    Your body processes alcohol first, before fat, protein, or carbs. Thus drinking slows down the burning of fat.

    Thank you for the information.

    So the less fat you eat in a day the better anyway?

    Focus on calories. Many fats are good for you. Think of it this way.. some beers have 200ish calories in each one. Multiply that by 3 or 4 in a night and it's like a whole added meal AND your body isn't processing whatever else you put in it that day as efficiently while the alcohol is in your system.
  • BakerRunnerBadass
    BakerRunnerBadass Posts: 1,359 Member
    I find any alcohol only affects my process if I eat crap/too much when I drink it.

    I have lost close to 40lbs and I have not given up my vodka, wine or beer. I wanted to loose weight when still enjoying my foods and beverages so that I didn't gain everything back when I indulged a bit.
  • olDave
    olDave Posts: 557 Member
    I like beer. I drink beer. I fit it into my caloric goals.

    That's all I can say about the topic. :smile:
  • amynicole0410
    amynicole0410 Posts: 41
    Alcohol slows your metabolism for awhile because of the way your liver processes it. It's also high-carb and, more importantly, high calorie. That said, life is just better with a beer here and there. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation (as with all things! ;) ) and work it into your daily calorie allowance.

    Maybe these will help a bit with that:

    www.getdrunknotfat.com
    www.beer100.com/beercalories.htm
    http://www.askmen.com/sports/foodcourt_150/150_eating_well.html


    Congrats on the weight you've already lost!

    Thank you. I'm only planning on drinking 1-2 beers every so often. Im guessing this does not have a large affect?

    Thank you for the nice words :)

    Exactly. I drink once or twice a week and make sure that, overall, my calories are still where I want them to be with the alcohol calories included on those days.
  • DavidC1857
    DavidC1857 Posts: 149 Member
    I'm maintaining now, and working on strength training. So it might not be as much an issue for me as for someone who is trying to lose.

    But honestly, it's another form of calories. Maybe not the best form, but probably better than Twinkies. I have a beer every now and then. And count it like I do everything else.

    Personally, I don't go for the low-cal stuff, I think it tastes like piss and it isn't worth it. I'd rather not have it. A good Sam Adams Dark or Amber. Just one. And I've satisfied my taste for a beer. And then I log it.

    (I'm not advocating one brand or type of beer over another for anyone but myself. Sam Adams is what came to mind at the moment. Our bar had a good Alaskan Amber that I liked also. I just don't like most of today's "commercial" beers.)
  • crystalflame
    crystalflame Posts: 1,049 Member
    Your body processes alcohol first, before fat, protein, or carbs. Thus drinking slows down the burning of fat.

    Thank you for the information.

    So the less fat you eat in a day the better anyway?

    Healthy fats are important. You need them in your diet - about .35g per lb you weigh. That said, when you drink, alcohol gets metabolized first and reduces the body's ability to process fats in particular. This article contains some good information on how your body copes with alcohol (as well as providing tips for those of us who like to party on the weekends....): http://www.leangains.com/2010/07/truth-about-alcohol-fat-loss-and-muscle.html

    Nothing is wrong with a beer or two. Fit it in your calories, and if you're really concerned, reduce your carbs (getting those from beer anyway) and fat on the days you drink. But a whole bunch of people on this site have had very successful weight loss having a drink or few frequently. Don't overdo it and you'll be fine =)
  • sijomial
    sijomial Posts: 19,809 Member
    I go to a pub quiz every Tuesday so I pre-log my drink (and snacks!) early in the day and then earn them in the gym.

    I'm more aware of the "empty calories" in alcohol these days but good beer and good wine are two of my pleasures in life.
  • weloveourboys
    weloveourboys Posts: 133 Member
    Alcohol slows your metabolism for awhile because of the way your liver processes it. It's also high-carb and, more importantly, high calorie.

    Just want to say that vodka and scotch have zero carbs.
  • whiteheaddg
    whiteheaddg Posts: 325 Member
    You can check my diary - I don't think you'll find many nights that don't include a beverage (wine or beer). The trick is that I factor the calories into my plan while ensuring I meet my protein/fat goals for the day. This approach worked for my initial weight loss, my recent bulk phase (timed well with fall/winter seasonal brews), and current cutting phase.

    I may have to go to every other night if these last couple pounds become too stubborn, but so far there has been no issue.
  • TheViperMan
    TheViperMan Posts: 235 Member
    Well let's see, I've had about 150 beers since August 2012 and I've probably lost 20 pounds in that time-frame. I've been a little heavy on the drinking lately (pay cuts, two jobs, new born baby... I need a stress relief - lol!)

    Yes it slows your metabolism - for about an hour per beer. If you have a big binge night you'll pay for it (in more ways than one.)

    SOME beers are high-calorie, but not all of them. Most light-to-amber beers (good ones - nothing that ends with the word "Light") will range between 100 and 150 calories. Even Guiness is only about 170 or so? Now, if you're like me, you like your chocolate stouts and imperial beers, which can easily hit 300 calories a bottle. I miss those... :frown:

    Long story short, yes you can lose weight and still enjoy beer. Hell, it's more natural than ANY soda on the market! ESPECIALLY if you make your own! I've been homebrewing since 2010 - making another batch tomorrow!

    Cheers!
  • amynicole0410
    amynicole0410 Posts: 41
    Personally, I don't go for the low-cal stuff, I think it tastes like piss and it isn't worth it. I'd rather not have it. A good Sam Adams Dark or Amber.

    X 2. Get what you actually crave to satisfy that craving, again, working it into your calories.

    I'm a sucker for whiskey and tequila too. ;D
  • TheViperMan
    TheViperMan Posts: 235 Member
    By the way you TRUE beer lovers (and brewers) should check out this group!

    http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/home/11960-craft-beer-and-home-brewing
  • astronomicals
    astronomicals Posts: 1,537 Member
    Nobody ... really... shame

    http://www.leangains.com/2010/07/truth-about-alcohol-fat-loss-and-muscle.html
  • erickirb
    erickirb Posts: 12,294 Member
    I usually drink 5-12 beer a week. Just make sure you make room for it in your daily caloric intake and you will be fine.
  • GnomeLover1984
    GnomeLover1984 Posts: 80
    As long as it stays within my calorie limits, I haven't been bothered by weight loss while drinking beer or wine. Usually I will only have a few on the weekends. BBQ weather though...I will have to throw in some extra workouts to accommodate.
  • bubbaduts
    bubbaduts Posts: 196 Member
    For me personally, when i want to lose weight i can't drink. It may be a thing with my body but if i drink i don't lose weight that week. I've experimented off and on. If i am going to drink i just prepare myself for the fact i wont lose weight that week.
  • Melo1966
    Melo1966 Posts: 881 Member
    Drinking Loser Here
    Just fit the calories in and enjoy.:drinker:
  • amynicole0410
    amynicole0410 Posts: 41
    Alcohol slows your metabolism for awhile because of the way your liver processes it. It's also high-carb and, more importantly, high calorie.

    Just want to say that vodka and scotch have zero carbs.

    AHH! Sorry, was more referring to beer. Should have clarified. :)
  • nahiluoh
    nahiluoh Posts: 41 Member
    It's not too hard to fit beer into your daily budget if you want to do so.

    However, my issue is that having a beer or two (or more) lowers my resolve when it comes to eating outside my goals. That later-night snack goes a lot more quickly from hand to mouth if I have had a few!
  • AndrewXB9
    AndrewXB9 Posts: 114
    Your body processes alcohol first, before fat, protein, or carbs. Thus drinking slows down the burning of fat.

    Thank you for the information.

    So the less fat you eat in a day the better anyway?

    Healthy fats are important. You need them in your diet - about .35g per lb you weigh. That said, when you drink, alcohol gets metabolized first and reduces the body's ability to process fats in particular. This article contains some good information on how your body copes with alcohol (as well as providing tips for those of us who like to party on the weekends....): http://www.leangains.com/2010/07/truth-about-alcohol-fat-loss-and-muscle.html

    Nothing is wrong with a beer or two. Fit it in your calories, and if you're really concerned, reduce your carbs (getting those from beer anyway) and fat on the days you drink. But a whole bunch of people on this site have had very successful weight loss having a drink or few frequently. Don't overdo it and you'll be fine =)

    I don't even really eat carbs. Most of my food comes from raw fruits and vegetables and nuts and protein. Just 1-2 bottles is all :)
  • ldrosophila
    ldrosophila Posts: 7,512 Member
    The first thing that the body does is start to metabolize beer then it moves onto the other macronutrients. So what happens when you drink beer is you effectively shut off your fat burning metabolism until the alcohol has been fully processed. Some of what I have read states that you can quit metabolizing fat for some time afterwards. However, there is some debate as to how much alcohol contributes to you overall caloric intake if any. And most of what I find is conflicting some saying yes it does cause an increase in weight and others saying it does not affect weight gain. I pulled a few of the articles I have read and you can make you own choice. Personally, but I am obese, alcohol consumption has not stalled my weight loss. I drink more wine lately because some of what I have read is saying that women who drink wine have lower BMI's.

    http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23356635
    Is beer consumption related to measures of abdominal and general obesity? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

    http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9877253
    Influence of alcohol consumption and various beverages on waist girth and waist-to-hip ratio in a sample of French men and women.

    http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12587005
    Waist circumference in relation to history of amount and type of alcohol: results from the Copenhagen City Heart Study.

    http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14506485
    Beer and obesity: a cross-sectional study.

    http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21790610
    Alcohol consumption and body weight: a systematic review.

    http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12716687
    Alcohol, body weight, and weight gain in middle-aged men.
  • AndrewXB9
    AndrewXB9 Posts: 114
    The first thing that the body does is start to metabolize beer then it moves onto the other macronutrients. So what happens when you drink beer is you effectively shut off your fat burning metabolism until the alcohol has been fully processed. Some of what I have read states that you can quit metabolizing fat for some time afterwards. However, there is some debate as to how much alcohol contributes to you overall caloric intake if any. And most of what I find is conflicting some saying yes it does cause an increase in weight and others saying it does not affect weight gain. I pulled a few of the articles I have read and you can make you own choice. Personally, but I am obese, alcohol consumption has not stalled my weight loss. I drink more wine lately because some of what I have read is saying that women who drink wine have lower BMI's.

    http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23356635
    Is beer consumption related to measures of abdominal and general obesity? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

    http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9877253
    Influence of alcohol consumption and various beverages on waist girth and waist-to-hip ratio in a sample of French men and women.

    http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12587005
    Waist circumference in relation to history of amount and type of alcohol: results from the Copenhagen City Heart Study.

    http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14506485
    Beer and obesity: a cross-sectional study.

    http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21790610
    Alcohol consumption and body weight: a systematic review.

    http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12716687
    Alcohol, body weight, and weight gain in middle-aged men.

    Thanks for the links!

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