Drink in Moderation to Avoid Diet Pitfalls

​Summer is winding down but it’s still nice enough to enjoy a BBQ with friends. Or maybe you’re celebrating with family, meeting a friend after work, and, yes, the holidays are around the corner. All this means that you may also be enjoying an alcoholic beverage. Drinking is a great way to socialize with your family and friends, but it also can derail your diet.
 
Ever wonder why it seems you let your guard down when imbibing and eating? This time, it is all in your head. Researchers have found that when you eat and drink, the hypothalamus responds more to food odors, basically your brain is more sensitive to external food cues, like aromas. This is called the “aperitif effect.”
 
“Many alcoholic beverages already include empty calories, and when you combine those calories with the aperitif effect, it can lead to energy imbalance and possibly weight gain,” Dr. Eiler warned in a statement.
 
Read more about the first study of its kind here: Alcohol sensitizes brain response to food aromas, increases food intake in women
 
Of course avoiding certain foods while drinking may be the key, here are some healthy food suggestions. And be sure to visit our website http://www.natatia.com/recipes.html for some other meal ideas.
 
Whole grain Crackers (try with tuna topping)
Bean crackers (try with hummus dip)
Bean chips
Veggie sticks (great with low sodium cottage cheese)
Fresh fruits
 
If you’re not at home just remember you always have a choice. Choose lean and clean.
 
So, go out there and have some fun, and remember to drink lots of water!