Atkins diet alcohol consumption question

blainer · January 23, 2003, 4:38pm

The Atkins diet book I have glosses over the effect of alcohol consumption on ketosis. Now, I imagine that beer is out because it is all carbs, but what about liquors and wines? If alcohol is ok, how much can one consume in, say, one night?

Thanks in advance!

susan · January 23, 2003, 4:42pm

2 seconds on Google finds this:

http://atkinscenter.com/helpatkins/faqs/faqbeverages/

blainer · January 23, 2003, 4:49pm

Thanks, Shoshana! Found that, but thought that it was a little vague. i.e.-postpones for how long? Are clear spirits better?

Anyone have any actual experience?

susan · January 23, 2003, 8:20pm

There was also a thread a while ago about which alcoholic drinks were absorbed more thoroughly, with some debate.

Annie-Xmas · January 23, 2003, 8:38pm

Maryann Crenshaw describes her life as an alcoholic pill popper and Atkins Diet follower in her two books "The Natural Way to Super Beauty"and “The End of the Rainbow.” Pretty heavy stuff.

In the end, she’s no longer drinking, popping, or Atkins-dieting.

porcupine · January 23, 2003, 9:20pm

Not a definitive answer (and with a few typos), but the alt.support.diet.low-carb newsgroup FAQ says:

Alcohol
This is an area that seems to very a great deal between individuals. While it is true that many alcohol products contain few carbs, alcohol itself is a fuel source. The body will choose to burn alcohol before any other source of fuel (carbs, protein, or fat). This translates to your body not using fat as a fuel while there is a alcohol available within your system. However, many members have reported that they are able to consume moderate amounts of alcohol while on low-carb without having any problems. Be warned: many members on the NG have noted an increase sensitivity to alcohol while on low-carb, aka. the cheap date syndrome. As most people are already aware, alcohol has a depressant effect which lowers inhibitions, including those that could you from overeating and making poor food choices.

I used to frequent this newsgroup and found it to be pretty useful.

kanicbird · January 23, 2003, 11:02pm

W/o carbs to slow the absorbtion, you can get buzzed on the cheap. (speaking from personal exp.)

blainer · January 24, 2003, 12:45am

Thanks for all the replies!

porcupine · January 24, 2003, 5:38pm

Yep, I’ve had the same experience. I believe it’s specifically due to having less glucogen in your liver.