People tend to drink more alcohol over the holidays and on New Year’s Eve due to parties, events or whenever they feel depressed or lonely. But don’t let the holidays or your mood tempt you into drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. It’s the wrong thing to do on so many different levels. That’s why; drinking in moderation is a necessity.
The rule of thumb for people who drink is to limit alcohol consumption to one drink per day for women and two for men, with one drink equaling 350ml of beer, 150ml of wine or 45ml of proof liquor. This can be particularly difficult over the holidays with brandy bottles everywhere.
Here are 6 tips that will help:

* Start with a non-alcoholic drink. Try tea, coffee, soda (regular or diet), sparkling water with lemon or fruit punch.
* Try non-alcoholic options at the bar like non-alcoholic wines and beers.
* When you do partake of your one or two drinks of alcohol, have the drink you most enjoy and are looking forward to.
* Don’t drink on an empty stomach. Take small sips of your alcohol drink so a little lasts a long time and enjoy it with or near your meal so it will be digested along with some food.
* If you are the holiday host, help your guests drink less alcohol by having water glass or tea cup next to every plate at the table. Try using smaller-sized glasses to serve wine and other alcohol. And always provide plenty of non-alcoholic choices.
If you are a guest, bring plenty of non-alcoholic drink choices to the party with you (like non-alcoholic wine and beer, flavored mineral water, festive holiday tea bags, etc.)

Here is an idea of calories in your favorite alcoholic drinks:
-Mojito (240ml) 242 kcal.
-Sangria (240ml) 260 kcal.
-Gin (45ml) 111 kcal.
-Whisky (45ml) 107 kcal.
-Beer (350ml) 154 kcal.
-Wine (150ml) 122 kcal.

The bottom line is simple: if you’re going to drink, don’t overindulge.

Christelle Bedrossian
Dietitian-Nutritionist
Beirut, Lebanon