Expanding waistlines may be due to alcohol

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HOUSTON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Those who can't lose weight despite exercising and cutting back on high-calorie food may be drinking too many calories from beverages, a U.S. dietitian says.

Kari Kooi, a registered dietitian at The Methodist Hospital in Houston, said the empty calories from alcohol can add up fast, and alcohol lowers inhibitions, meaning resistance to high-calorie foods becomes futile.

"Reduce or cut out alcohol consumption," Kooi said in a statement. "Increased alcohol consumption will lead to unwanted pounds and expanded waistlines."

Liquid calories do not satisfy hunger and can quickly lead to weight gain when consumed in excess.

What's more, alcoholic drinks can cause blood sugar swings that leave you even hungrier, Kooi said.

Consume alcohol in moderation since it has 7 calories per gram, which is very close to the 9 calories per gram in fat, Kooi said, and the calories can add up fast.

"The best hydration choice is water," Kooi said.