The best advice I could give you about drinking is BE CAREFUL!!! Alchohol affects your system much faster and stronger when you are LC'ing. I drink a couple beers every (other) night or so. I also drink red wine or vodka & water. But even after 3 months I can only handle 1/2 of what I used to drink. It doesn't affect my loss. (I think, who knows, maybe I'd loose quicker if I quit). Another reason it is suggested you don't drink is that inhibitions are quite low and you may be more tempted to cheat while under the influence. I don't have that problem either. I guess it is strictly YMMV?