John P. Higgins MD, MBA (Hons), MPHIL, FACC, FACP, FAHA, FACSM, FASNC, FSGC, is a sports cardiologist for The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center and the Harris Health System. His research interests include the effects of energy beverages on the body, and screening for underlying cardiovascular abnormalities in 12-year-olds (6th graders), and steroid effects on the cardiovascular system. Even if you save going out with your partner or friends for the weekend, sipping on too many cocktails just one or two nights a week can have drastic consequences on your diet.
You may not realize it, but alcoholic beverages can be packed with calories. In fact, a five-ounce glass of red or white wine contains about 120 calories, a 12-ounce beer has about 150 calories, and a 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof liquor has about 100 calories.
Alcohol also lowers your blood sugar, which can cause you to rummage around your kitchen looking for something to eat.
John Higgins, MD, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss how alcohol can blow your diet.
Health Topics A-Z
How Alcohol Can Blow Your Diet & Spark Excessive Weight Gain
Air Date: 10/6/15
Duration: 10
Host: Melanie Cole, MS
