Hi Friends of Oompf, it’s Alvan here. Today we will be talking about alcohol and its effects.
During this festive period, I’m sure there is bound to be a lot of drinking and feasting happening and while it is okay to have everything in moderation, it is also important to be aware of the effects or repercussions of certain habits or indulgences. Today in particular, we will be talking about the effects of alcohol.
It is not a secret that overconsumption of alcohol is harmful to the body. But how exactly does it affect your training performance?
1. Alcohol causes dehydration
Ever notice how thirsty you are the morning after drinking alcohol? This is because alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it causes you to lose excess water. Dehydration leads to a reduction in performance not only during the workout but post workout as well. Hydration is imperative when you exercise to maintain the flow of blood through your body, which is essential for circulating oxygen and nutrients to your muscles. Hence you will notice more fatigue and overheating of the body when your exercise after drinking
2. Alcohol contains empty calories/ no nutritional benefits
Well, if you are working out to lose weight, consuming alcohol would be counterproductive to that as it is full of empty calories; calories with no nutritional benefits. Unlike consuming a banana- although high in calories, provides you with carbs and fibre that can be utilised as energy to fuel your workout, consuming alcohol does not achieve the same effects. The calories from alcohol cannot be used for energy, hence it stays in your body piling up as excess calories.
3. Affects your metabolism
Alcohol is a toxin, and once consumed, your body works to metabolize it so it can remove it from your system. Your liver has to work harder to neutralize this toxin which has an adverse effect on your metabolism, making it more difficult for you to burn calories.
If you are a regular drinker and work out regularly as well, your body may have built up a tolerance towards alcohol. You may not feel the effects strongly but try cutting it out for a week or 2 and you will definitely notice an improvement in your performance. If you are not able to cut it out completely, practice self control and have for example, a glass of wine instead of the whole bottle. Taking small steps like these will help you to slowly form healthier habits which will in turn benefit your health in the long run.
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