I lost 21 pounds of ‘wine weight’ and DIDN’T have to go teetotal: Here’s how I did it

Over the past few months, I managed to shed 21 pounds—without giving up wine entirely. Like many, I had noticed a gradual increase in my weight, which I soon realized was tied to my nightly glass (or two) of wine. However, I wasn’t ready to completely cut it out of my life. So, I found a balance that allowed me to lose the weight without feeling deprived.

1. Mindful Drinking
I started by tracking my alcohol intake, realizing how often I’d mindlessly pour a glass while winding down after a long day. Instead of going cold turkey, I chose to be more intentional with when and how much I drank. Limiting myself to just one glass of wine a few nights a week, rather than daily indulgence, was a game-changer.

2. Opt for Lighter Wines
I also switched to lighter wine options, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir, which have fewer calories than heavier reds or sweet wines. This small change helped me keep my calorie intake under control without sacrificing my love for a good glass of wine.

3. Control Portion Sizes
Rather than filling a large wine glass, I started measuring my servings. One standard pour is about five ounces, which is less than I thought I was drinking. By keeping my portions in check, I found it easier to maintain a calorie deficit and, as a result, lost the weight.

4. Exercise and Balance
I didn’t just cut back on wine—I also made an effort to exercise regularly. Whether it was walking, yoga, or strength training, moving my body helped speed up the weight loss process. I found that having an active routine made it easier to enjoy occasional treats (like wine) without guilt.

5. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water became a priority. For every glass of wine, I made sure to drink at least one glass of water. This helped keep me hydrated, curb any cravings, and reduce the impact of alcohol on my waistline.

In the end, the key to losing the ‘wine weight’ wasn’t about completely eliminating wine from my life—it was about finding a balance and being more mindful of how, when, and how much I was drinking. By taking small steps, I managed to lose the 21 pounds without feeling deprived. Now, I can still enjoy a glass of wine, guilt-free.