Kelly Ripa Shares Unexpected Weight Gain After Quitting Alcohol

As many individuals embark on a sober journey during Dry January, the conversation around the health benefits of eliminating alcohol has gained momentum. One notable voice in this discussion is TV personality Kelly Ripa, the host of ABC’s “Live with Kelly and Mark.” Recently, Ripa opened up about her surprising experience with weight after quitting alcohol in 2017.

Dry January and Personal Revelations

On a recent episode featuring guest host Andy Cohen, the topic of Dry January emerged. Cohen shared his experience, stating, “I’m in the middle of Dry January… Usually, a little weight loss comes my way after. That’s not really happening yet.” Ripa’s response was both candid and enlightening.

Ripa’s Surprising Journey with Weight

Reflecting on her own journey, Ripa recounted her decision to quit drinking, expecting a significant decrease in weight. She remarked, “Because everybody’s like, ‘Well you are going to get too skinny … you can’t afford to lose it.’ I gained 12 pounds!” This unexpected weight gain left her puzzled.

Ripa explained, “I don’t understand this ‘magical weight loss’ that people imply. I think I just took to eating the sugars… because apparently, alcohol is like a lot of sugar.” This insight into her eating habits highlights a common pitfall for those eliminating alcohol.

A Candid Look Back at Her Drinking Habits

In 2020, Ripa revealed to People Magazine that she and her friends decided to try a month without alcohol back in 2017. Although she didn’t classify herself as a heavy drinker, she noted that even moderate consumption would leave her feeling its effects the next day.

“I just didn’t really feel the need or desire to go back to it,” she stated. This perspective shows how personal relationships with alcohol can change and how one’s lifestyle may adapt accordingly.

Expert Opinions on Alcohol and Weight Management

Dr. Kathleen Jordan, Chief Medical Officer at Midi Health and an expert in women’s health and weight management, discussed the potential health benefits of reducing or eliminating alcohol. She noted that cutting back on alcohol can lead to lower cancer risk and weight loss.

“Less drinking eliminates the hundreds of calories found in beverages, which range from 160 to over 400 calories per drink,” Dr. Jordan explained. She also highlighted that reduced alcohol consumption often correlates with decreased late-night snacking, contributing to healthier weight management.

Understanding the Weight Gain Phenomenon

However, Dr. Jordan cautioned that not everyone may experience weight loss when cutting alcohol from their diets. For some, especially those who were low or moderate drinkers, the weight gain after quitting may result from replacing alcoholic beverages with snacks or sugary substitutes.

To mitigate weight gain, Dr. Jordan advised replacing alcoholic drinks with various forms of water, such as sparkling or flavored varieties. This method can satisfy cravings associated with habitual drinking without contributing extra calories.

Staying Active During Dry January

With Dry January coinciding with colder, darker months, it’s tempting for many to remain indoors and inactive. Dr. Jordan encourages individuals to maintain their physical activity levels even during winter, as staying active is pivotal for overall health and weight management.

Final Thoughts on Sober Living

Ripa’s experience serves as a reminder that the journey towards sobriety and improved health can yield unexpected results. While many anticipate weight loss by quitting alcohol, personal experiences can vary widely based on individual lifestyles and choices. It’s crucial for those embarking on this journey to focus on overall well-being rather than strictly on weight.

Ultimately, engaging with these discussions not only sheds light on the complexities of alcohol consumption but also fosters a community that supports healthier choices.