The reality is that alcohol is a simple sugar, in fact the simplest sugar out there. While most sugars have to travel to the intestinal tract to be absorbed, alcohol can be absorbed through the stomach wall, so you can do a few injections and feel it relatively quickly.

While most sugars yield 4 calories per gram, alcohol yields 7 and they are basically worthless calories. They are easily converted to triglycerides and stored as fat. Sugar also affects the balance of insulin, so it cannot release stored fat. Final result over time = beer belly.

Worst of all, about 90-120 minutes after consuming a good amount of alcohol, your blood sugar drops, your body sends you these little chemical signals (neurotransmitters) that try to get you to food that will restore sugar in blood quickly. That’s why you end up at Denny’s or Jack in the Box at 3 a.m. M.

Trick No. 1 is, of course, limiting alcohol consumption to one day per week (cheat day). You can’t get fat in one day, and if you spend six days a week boosting your metabolism, your body will learn to burn. . . . well. . . even a Denny’s meal every now and then. If trick n. 1 seems too restrictive, that doesn’t mean you can’t do this. There are some steps you can take to avoid the negative effects of alcohols on your body.

First, if you are planning to have a few, a full meal, consisting of a good amount of protein and some complex carbohydrates (such as a chicken breast and a potato) an hour before, it will allow you to get those quality nutrients sooner than the empty calories reach the bloodstream. Since protein has a “thermic” effect (producing heat or burning calories), it will decrease the metabolic slowdown caused by drinking on an empty stomach and help put your body in a state where it is more likely to burn. at least some of those calories from alcohol as energy. Swallowing two carb-blocking pills about 30 minutes before drinking may also be beneficial. These are carbohydrate scavengers that inhibit amylase enzymes that convert excess sugars into fats, reducing the likelihood of alcohol being stored as body fat (read: belly). It is also best to eat something sugar-free along with alcohol to slow the flow of sugars from alcohol into the bloodstream. Some low-fat Doritos made exclusively with corn and some chicken wings can help decrease the sugar spike (if eaten with alcohol and, of course, not in excess).

Lastly, the “after drinking” meal should be preceded by plenty of water, even if you are not thirsty. This will minimize dehydration that makes your hangover worse, and you should include sugar-free, low-fat foods. I know when you have those post-drinking cravings, the little voice begs you to get a chili cheeseburger, fries, and a chocolate shake, but I assure you, if you can discipline yourself to go for an egg white omelette with a little whole grain. Toast or a grilled chicken breast and potatoes, after the meal the cravings will disappear. Blood sugar will begin to stabilize.

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