You’re winding down after a long day, glass of wine in hand, telling yourself it’s been earned. A little indulgence never hurt anyone, right? However, if you’ve been wondering whether those evening sips could be creeping onto your waistline, you’re not alone.
According to Healthline, wine is not just fermented grapes and good vibes—it’s also calories. A standard glass of wine is said to pack anywhere from 120 to 130 calories, and let’s be honest, one glass easily turns into two. Over time, those calories add up, especially if you’re not factoring them into your daily intake, adds the publication.
What’s more, alcohol slows your metabolism. Your body sees alcohol as a toxin and puts fat-burning on pause to get rid of it first. This means that while your liver is busy detoxing your Merlot, it’s not focusing on that post-lunch cupcake. Not exactly a win-win for weight goals.
There’s also the matter of munchies. According to Medical News Today, wine can lower inhibitions and boost appetite, which makes that bowl of crisps or late-night pizza seem like a fantastic idea. Cue the cycle of sipping, snacking, and stepping further from your health goals.
That said, it’s not all gloom and doom. Many people enjoy wine as part of a balanced lifestyle. The key is mindfulness. Keep an eye on portion sizes, skip the sugary cocktails, and try not to drink on an empty stomach. If you’re aiming for weight loss or simply staying in shape, factor your wine into your nutrition plan rather than pretending those “liquid calories” don’t count.
Wine can still be part of your self-care ritual—just maybe not every night. Your waistline and probably your sleep will thank you. Cheers to balance.
