Eat Fit Acadiana Presents #AlcoholFreeFor40 Challenge

The new year brings the best of healthy intentions, but by mid-January king cakes have arrived and Mardi Gras balls have begun. Eat Fit Acadiana is inviting everyone to restart their New Year’s resolutions by participating in the fifth annual Alcohol Free for 40 Challenge. The challenge begins on Ash Wednesday (February 26) and concludes on Easter Sunday (April 12). Participants are encouraged to engage in pre- and post-challenge metrics, including labs, body composition, hydration status, blood pressure, and a close-up photo to see face, skin and eyes. 

Eat Fit Acadiana is offering an easy way to track your metrics for just $25 (a $400 value). Advance registration is required and can be accessed online. The kickoff event for pre-challenge metrics is scheduled for Feb. 27 in the Medical Office building at Ochsner Lafayette General Orthopedic Hospital (4212 W. Congress Street) from 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. The #AlcoholFreeFor40 Challenge kickoff will feature Eat Fit-approved mocktails and small bites from Eat Fit partners.

The post-challenge metrics will occur on April 8 from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. at the same location as the kick-off event.

Participants are also encouraged to document changes in their mood, sleep, weight and appearance throughout the process.Those embarking on this wellness journey are encouraged to share their progress and connect with others via the #AlcoholFreeFor40 hashtag and its Facebook page.

Here’s what participants can expect:

• Within Days: Improved energy, better quality of sleep, clearer eyes and improved appearance of under-eye circles
• Within One Week: Reduced fluid retention, brighter skin, improved clarity and focus
• Within One Month: Positive changes to your weight and healthier hair, nails and digestion

Although there are some health benefits associated with moderate alcohol consumption, there are also drawbacks, including weight gain, inflammation and higher levels of anxiety. Alcohol also disrupts deep sleep, which can lead to low energy, difficulty concentrating and foggy thinking. For more information, please contact  Staff.EatFit@gmail.com.