new here...worried about alcohol...any tips?

First of all it is a positive thing that you recognize the fact that you do have a drinking problem by stating that you are "sort of an alcoholic". Cudos to you! I immediately want to suggest a support group.

I understand your situation, as you sound just like what I used to do. I used to come home from work and have a cocktail, or two, or three, etc. Then started drinking beer. This went on for several years, and I gradually packed on the pounds. I know you don't want to hear this, but you need to stop drinking, or cut back severely. When I stopped drinking alcohol I immediately lost 8 pounds. And I do feel better. I will drink a beer or two maybe twice a month now. And you know what? I don't miss it. (I used to be married to an alcoholic, and when I left him, that's when I stopped drinking.)

I think the first question to ask yourselft is, "Why do I drink?" Is it really that important to you? I think there are always underlying reasons why a person drinks. Do you drink alone or with someone?

Find something to do to replace your drinking time. Reach for water instead of beer after exercising; it's much better for you. Find a hobby or projec to work on. I know that is easier said than done, but I've been there, done that. I started by going to the gym after work. I was working out instead of going home to a cocktail. It wasn't easy, but gradually, over time, my habits changed. And I am so greatful that I managed to change. I feel better, and feel better about myself.

I used to think the same things that you do. Any time I wanted to diet, I would find a way to work in my alcohol fix. Alcohol has a lot of sugar/calories.

If you can't just stop, then cut back to two drinks on the weekend and see how that goes for you.

Good luck to you with this.

Wow, it seems to me that there are a lot of people on here with exceptionally strong willpower (and absolutely no empathy!) Makes me wonder how they ever ended up needing to join a weight loss site in the first place.

So, back in the real world where 'just quitting' isnt an option (otherwise we'd all be living on fresh fruit & veg, lean meat, drinking water, and be happy with our skinny *kitten*!) I would suggest gradual cutting back. I used to drink a bottle or more of wine a night, I am now at the stage where I don't have a drink at all Monday to Thursday, but I still drink more than I should at the weekends, for which I do extra exercise to give me the calories. However, what I am finding is that I feel the need less and less as time goes on. I also need to drink less to get the same effect. So really, you just need to decide on a strategy that works for you, whether it's cutting it our for one night a week, then two and so on, or cutting it back per night until you only have one, and then none, and so on.

If you would like a friend to help you work through this, please feel free to add me.

I tend to agree with gradually reducing your consumption until it becomes more manageable for you.

But what about also giving yourself a financial incentive. Something like the swear jar concept. We've all seen it; for every curse you put a dollor in a swear jar... What about doing the same thing for the amount of beer you drink? For every bottle you drink you could put a buck or two or five (whatever) in a jar or give it to someone you trust if you don't trust yourself not to spend the money. You can make drinking just simply too expensive and at the end of the month could use the saved up money to pay for a fitness program you've always wanted to take, or a hobby that keeps you active and out of the house where you won't be tempted to drink so much. Just an idea.

or, each time you DON'T have a drink you wanted, throw a buck or two in the jar. at the end of a month, it gives you a sense of accomplishment for showing some control, and you can reward yourself with something special with the money. (not beer though! lol)

The fact that you call yourself an alcoholic and say you can't stop is worrisome and for that reason I think you should make every effort to quit. It is completely possible to drink and be healthy, but your post sounds like you need to at least take a break from alcohol and see how it goes. If you still want it, but don't "need" it you may be able to add it back. In moderation of course.

I strongly encourage stress management! Alcohol is not bad but how we can DEPEND on it and see the effects on us. Only you can see and be honest with yourself the detrimental effects it has had on your health and lifestyle and coping.
Perhaps talk with your physician if you trust him/her.

ooops, I feel I have put myself on the line a little bit now! Too much honesty ha ha!!
There I was thinking thank God it's not just me and someone else is a little worried but then you go and say you don't even drink every night and you have managed to cut back! Damn you ha ha!
Well done for recognising where you are at though and I agree with the low cal alternatives if you just like the taste of beer.

I drink quite a bit and also want to cut down. I started by replacing several beers with big glasses of diet soda or sparking flavored water and adding just a couple of ounces of white wine to that. I still need to cut down more, though. I understand how you feel.

Quitting cold turkey when you are an alcoholic is not wise - the withdrawal could be life threatening. You should taper off. Make a commitment to drink a little less each day until you are not drinking anymore.

I refuse to believe that anyone who is trying to control their weight is an alcoholic.


Quit cold turkey.

I KNOW JUST HOW YOU FEEL! People on this site need to have some compassion! What the hell, some people eat too damn much and some people drink too damn much!. I have been battling 10 pounds to 15 pounds for 10 years! I love my wine and refuse to stop having a drink! I think cutting back is necessary and i am doing my best. Please do not stop cold turkey! Just try to best to cut back : ) I know you can do it because i have cut back but i still love my red wine on thursday night, friday night and even saturday night. It is all about balance my dear. LIVESTRONG : )

And some people on this site need to find some willpower for their health and their future. Not make excuses as to WHY they need the one drink or why they need the one more glass of wine.