I was in the car yesterday, and the announcer was talking about new years resolutions and how he thought that January would be a quiet time for bars and pubs, as so many people have resolutions to take better care of their health. Someone who works in a pub dialed in and said no way, January is one of the busiest months of the year; lots of people on holidays, the weather is good…what better reason to head to your local for a tipple or two?
This is just a quick post to point out to all those with health based resolutions and goals (and those of you who enjoy a drink) the amount of kilojoules being consumed with even one drink… let alone the four or five (or more) that many people consume.
Check out this table:
| Beverage Type | Number of kJ/Cal | Approximately equivalent to… |
| 100mL Wine | 315/75 | ½ slice Hawaiian pizza |
| Can of full strength beer | 570/136 | 1/3 bucket hot chips |
| 30mL nip spirits | 275/66 | Fun size Mars Bar |
| Cocktail (eg Mojito) | 710/170 | 1 thick sausage |
| Bottle Wine | 2138/510 | 1 slice mudcake |
Keep in mind that most people with pour themselves approximately 140-160mL of wine per glass, and when pouring spirits at home, many people will make the drink stronger than the standard single shot. Furthermore, alcohol is often consumed with food, often high calorie options.
As I regularly tell my lovely clients, I am not here to be the food police, however a timely reminder about the effect kilojoules alone can have important... and this isn't even starting on the other negative health and social effects over consumption can have.
I hope everyone had a safe and happy holiday season!
Chloe McLeod is a dietitian at BJC Health.
This blog focuses on diet & nutrition generally and diet & nutrition in relation to the treatment of arthritis and arthritis-related diseases. Contact us if you’d like our help in managing diet-related health issues.
