How much does drinking actually affect exercise?

Published January 10, 2011

Question by Jahmyl E: How much does drinking actually affect exercise?
I have been strength training for a couple of months now. I like to drink sometimes on the weekend. Usually just one night. I know that alcohol affects protein synthesis and recovery but exactly how detrimental is drinking on the weekends to exercising?

Best answer:

Answer by Mads
Alcohol seems to have a large effect on exercise. Its effect depends on whether it is taken before or after exercise. It affects fat metabolism. It also seems to negate the positive effects of exercise. Understanding how alcohol effects exercise is vital for anyone who wants to lose weight, increase fitness or build muscles.
Drinking immediately before a workout inhibited the exercise induced increase of blood sugar. It also caused a decrease in blood glucose levels during recovery from the workout. Exercise during hangover also resulted in decreased blood glucose levels during the recovery period.
Drinking before or after a workout inhibited the post exercise increase in free fatty acids concentration in the blood.

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