One thing I’ve always struggled with as someone who works out hard during the week and eats well, is the weekend–my friends and family always seem to be headed out for a few drinks and bite to eat. Do I stray from my healthy diet and join the festivities with them, or refuse to crack? I can’t sit here and attempt to convince you that alcohol in any way, shape, or form is healthy for you. In moderation with least calories, at best.

Alcohol supplies what we call empty calories, calories that have zero nutrition and once consumed, becomes the first fuel burned in the body. This means you’re burning alcohol before you’re burning fat, which eventually contributes to higher levels of fat storage. Moreover, if you are consuming sugary mixed drinks or higher-calorie beers , you’re contributing to even more fat storage! S

So, what gives? Well buddy, if you must partake in the fun by having a drink or three, try keeping away from beer, or sugar based mixed drinks. Instead, go with a glass of wine, preferably red, which is high in antioxidants. If you must drink beer go with a light beer and stay away from the high calorie hog brew! If liquor is your poison be sure to choose a sugar-free mixer/chaser. Also, try not to binge drink since that will just supply the body with more empty calories that will need to get burned before you get back to burning that fat.

The bottom line–any form of alcohol poses potential problems when you’re simultaneously trying to lose unwanted weight and build up some muscle.

Be a smart FitHack by exercising some self-control and discipline in your quest for health and body.