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What is Too Much?

How Much Is Too Much?

In some recent reports it has been suggested that any alcohol should be considered too much.  However, the rule of thumb is that anything over 14 units per week is excessive.

Until not so long ago, men had a higher weekly allowance than women.  It is now the same for both sexes at 14 units.

What about Calories?

Many of us are aware that drinking has a direct affect on our shape – hence the term “Beer Belly”.

As you can see, alcohol is measured in terms of units.  There are 8 grams of alcohol in one unit and each gram has 7 calories.  That means that we need to burn off a further 56 calories for every unit of alcohol that we consume.

Another point to note is that these are empty calories with no nutritional value whatsoever.  They just add to the waistline.

An Evening Out with the Lads

Let’s assume that we meet up with a few friends and have 4 pints of ordinary strength beer during the evening.  That equates to over 9 units.  In one session we have consumed two thirds of our recommended weekly allowance and over 500 calories.

An Evening Out with the Girls

Now let’s look at it from another aspect.  4 gin and tonics this time.  A 25ml of spirits is 1 unit.  That is an English pub measure, but if you live in Spain it is likely that every drink will contain two or three times the amount of alcohol.

Let’s assume that those 4 gin and tonics contain 50ml each.  That equals 8 units, which is over half of our recommended weekly allowance and 448 empty calories.

Why are we affected differently?

There are many reasons including some genetic differences.   However, these are the common ones:

Gender. Women are generally more effected by alcohol than men because they have a higher percentage of body fat and less fluid than men, so the alcohol is less diluted.

Age.  Younger bodies are developing bodies and have not built up a tolerance for alcohol.  Older people usually have less fluid in their bodies, which means less dilution.

Size:  Smaller people are usually affected more by drinking the same amount because of the level of concentration.

Weight:  An overweight person will be more affected that a fit person because their bodies are comprised of more fat and less fluid.  Concentration.

Other Considerations:  Subjects such as the speed at which we drink and whether we are eating will be addressed in future postings.

How Can Hypnotherapy Help?

Many people find that just being aware of the alcohol guidelines is sufficient to change their behaviour, but others find it more difficult and need to seek help.

These are just some of the ways where hypnotherapy can help:

  • By removing any underlying or historical causes for unhealthy drinking habits.
  • By reducing and eliminate cravings.
  • By signalling when “enough is enough”. 
  • By creating a preference for lower or non-alcoholic drinks.
  • By promoting a desire for a healthier lifestyle.