This weight gain stems from the high number of calories in many alcoholic drinks. This can inflame the stomach lining, leading to irritation and bloating that can last a few days. Some alcoholic drinks, such as beer, can also cause boating due to gas. There’s a lack of evidence linking reduced alcohol consumption to weight loss. A study published in 2016 found that decreasing light-to-moderate alcohol consumption did not significantly affect weight loss.

Types of Alcohol That Cause Bloating

Drinking alcohol may lead to inflammation and irritation in the stomach which results in bloating. Alcohol can also cause weight gain, giving the appearance of bloating. Generally, you must consume fewer calories than you use to lose weight. You do not have to give up alcohol entirely to create a calorie deficit. Instead, changing your drinking habits can help you manage your weight. Alcohol has sedative effects that may help you relax and make you sleepy after a drink.

Conclusion: Managing Alcohol and Bloating

If you’re looking for something to drink that can help reduce alcohol bloating, try drinking more water. Not only will this help keep you hydrated, but it also replaces the electrolytes lost during a night of heavy drinking. Do you enjoy drinking alcohol but find your stomach becomes distended and puffy soon after?

Best alcoholic drinks for weight loss

Practicing healthy lifestyle behaviors is a key component of managing chronic stress and keeping cortisol levels in check. For example, drinking two 16 fluid ounce (480 mL) bottles of soda in a day adds up to 384 calories and 104 grams of sugar. This, especially if consumed in addition to many other high-sugar food and drinks, can lead to excessive calorie intake in a day and, ultimately, excess visceral fat (8). Bloating after drinking alcohol can result from gastritis — an inflammatory condition that affects the stomach — or gas. Regular alcohol consumption can also lead to weight gain, which may feel like bloating. An alcohol belly is caused by drinking too much alcohol and consuming alcoholic beverages with too many calories.

At home, use a jigger when mixing drinks, and serve them in smaller glasses. Alcohol spikes cortisol levels in the body, which contributes to the accumulation of belly fat. It also impedes your ability to get a good night’s sleep, further contributing to belly fat. But calorie content is just the beginning does alcohol make u gain weight of your alcohol-induced weight gain journey. Think again if you can circumvent this problem by drinking “skinny” margaritas or clear liquor with soda water. Alcohol-induced bloating can be uncomfortable, but understanding its causes and symptoms can help you take steps to reduce and prevent it.

Many people want to know how long it takes for alcohol to be fully cleared from their system, but unfortunately, there is no hard and fast rule. Some people may find that wine or beer causes bloating while other options like vodka or gin don’t. You can also play around with different mixers (like soda water versus whole milk) to see which works best to avoid that bloated feeling. Alcohol consumption leads to bloating, as it can disrupt the protective mucus lining in the stomach. When the stomach lining is compromised, stomach acid can irritate the tissue, resulting in the development of ulcers.

• Choose a meal high in protein, vegetables and healthy carbohydrates like whole grains to keep you full when you start drinking.
• Alcohol also lowers testosterone levels which greatly slows your body’s ability to burn fat while at rest, further contributing to weight gain.
• Anyone looking to drop those final stubborn pounds may want to consider skipping their evening glass of wine.
• Some of these ingredients can be high in added sugars and calories, so they could contribute to a calorie excess.
• In other words, elevated cortisol could contribute to weight gain, especially around the belly.

Does alcohol cause weight gain?