"Cutting down on drinking can have a big effect on weight loss or maintaining a healthy weight, " said Ms Mendoza.

BBC: Alcohol calories 'too often ignored'

Especially since the floodgates are open for selling enormous sizes of French fries and bacon double cheeseburgers, which seem to have more effect on weight gain.

CNN: Forget large sodas, how about banning French fries?

Studies are mixed as to its effect in weight loss, but it is important to understand that although it is not a drug, it still has side effects and should be taken with caution.

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