As obesity in America has skyrocketed over the past decade, doctors have focused on the effects of soda. We know that Americans get about 6% of their daily calories from sugary soda drinks, which is why cities like New York have put the kibosh on selling super-sized soda drinks. However, the Center for Disease Control released a study this past week that shows that alcohol also plays a large party in obesity, as adults in the U.S. consume about 100 calories per day from alcoholic beverages. The study shows that consumers of alcoholic drinks get about 16% of their total daily calories from these beverages. This exceeds the recommended 15% limit.
This government study is important for our overall health because similar to soda, alcohol is high in calories and low in nutrition. The CDC based their research on interviews with over 11,000 adults from 2007 to 2010. Further information included that on an average day:
1) About 1/3 of men and 1/5 of women consume calories from beer, wine or liquor.
2) The average male drinks 150 calories of alcohol or the equivalent of one can of beer.
3) The average woman drinks about 50 calories, or ½ glass of wine with higher earning females drinking more than those who earn less.
4) There is no racial or ethnic difference in calories consumed.
5) Younger people drink more alcohol. Men between the ages of 20 – 29 get the caloric intake, at about 174 calories a day.
So, if you are interested in trying to lose weight and get healthy, step away from the alcohol cabinet! Empty calories as well as numerous other health risks are presented when drinking too much alcohol. Alcohol abuse also contributes to anemia, cancer, cardiovascular disease and cirrhosis of the liver, as well as contributing to depression and family and work problems.
If you are ready to get your habitual drinking under control and your life to a healthier and happier place, try taking alcohol awareness classes online. In today’s world, it’s easy to access quality educational courses at the click of a button. To insure that you are getting the most current and accurate information, look for a class that is designed by a licensed and practicing psychotherapist. Taking a course from your computer screen enables you to have complete privacy and get on your way to recovery without having to share your story with a big group of strangers.
A good 10 Hour Online Alcohol Awareness Class will cover the health risks of alcohol use for men and women, and how it effects the brain, central nervous system and body. Clients will learn effective communication techniques and stress management skills to help individuals better manage their daily life. Classes are also available for minors to teach the consequences and risks specific to their age group. Also be sure that the class you choose enables you the ability to speak with a therapist while taking the course, in case any questions or support issues arise.
Getting your drinking under control will not only help you lose weight, but will positively affect your relationships and productivity at work and at home. Taking an online alcohol awareness class is an educational and convenient way to learn techniques for creating a safer, more fulfilled lifestyle. It is a short amount of time to invest for the greater good of you and your family!