Canadians Cutting Back on Alcohol in the Name of Weight Loss, Study Finds
A growing number of Canadians are rethinking their drinking habits as part of their weight-loss journeys, according to a new study by MedExpress Canada. The research reveals that a significant portion of those trying to shed pounds are either reducing or eliminating alcohol altogether.
Beer Takes the Biggest Hit
The study found that 37% of Canadians actively trying to lose weight have given up beer entirely—more than those who have cut back on cocktails (29%) or wine (25%). This suggests that beer is the most commonly sacrificed drink among those focused on shedding weight.
Social Settings See Less Drinking
The survey also highlighted changes in social drinking habits:
- 44% of Canadians avoid alcohol at dinner
- 33% skip drinks at house parties
- 27% abstain during happy hour or after-work gatherings
Wellness Culture is Driving Change
Researchers say 48% of Canadians agree that wellness culture has made them more mindful of their alcohol intake. Additionally, 30% of Generation Z and Millennial respondents feel social pressure to drink less.
Majority of Weight-Loss Seekers Are Cutting Back
More than three in five Canadians (62%) trying to lose weight have reduced or stopped drinking alcohol in the past year. Among Generation Z in this group:
- 57% have cut back or quit alcohol
- 19% have stopped drinking completely
Overall, 16% of all Canadians aiming to lose weight have quit drinking entirely.
Plans for the Future
Looking ahead, 36% of Canadians plan to reduce their alcohol consumption in the next 12 months, while 15% intend to stop drinking altogether.
Study Background
The findings are based on an online survey of 1,005 Canadian adults conducted in 2026. Respondents included Generation Z (30%), Millennials (49%), Generation X (16%), and Baby Boomers (3%). Due to a small sample size, Baby Boomers were excluded from generational breakdowns.
