Being a social butterfly and living a healthy lifestyle don’t need to be mutually exclusive. Here are five ways to enjoy a night out without blowing out.
1. EAT BEFORE YOU DRINK
Consuming alcohol on an empty stomach is a lousy idea. Besides getting drunk much faster it also causes a blood sugar spike (and crash a few hours later). If you do choose to drink, have it with a healthy meal or snack. Food simply slows the absorption of alcohol and keeps blood sugar levels in check preventing the urge for a midnight kebab.
2. BOOZE WISELY
Fancy cocktails, full strength beer or oversized glasses of wine all come with extra calories. Keep it clean and simple by ordering spirits with soda water and a twist of lime. If you opt for beer, mid-strength is better than low carb as it has less calories overall. And for the vino lovers, remember one standard drink is only 100ml, which is usually much less than a restaurant pour. Politely ask your waiter to avoid top-ups so you can keep tabs on how much you’ve consumed.
3. STAY HYDRATED
Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it increases urine production, leaving you thirsty and dehydrated faster than your sweaty HIIT workouts. To minimise that hangover, and possibly prevent it from happening in the first place, pace yourself and sip water regularly throughout the night.
4. CATCH SOME Z’S
Getting plenty of sleep after heavy drinking can help your body recover. Additionally, not getting enough sleep messes with your hunger and satiety hormones, making you reach for high fat and carbohydrate rich foods the next day. Not exactly good for your waistline! Aim for 7 to 8 hours sleep, and if you fall short, take a nap the next day.
5. UP YOUR B’S AT BREKKIE
Many water soluble vitamins, including B vitamins get flushed out after a night of drinking. B vitamins are important for anyone active as they unlock energy production for your workouts and help with muscle recovery. Replenish your stores by brunching on foods like wholegrain bread, eggs, spinach and avocado, or a bowl of oats with banana and almonds. Much better than relying on a Berocca.
DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS FOR STAYING HEALTHY ON A NIGHT OUT?
