Alcoholic beverages are sources of empty calories, meaning they have no nutritional value. A gram of alcohol has 7 calories which are almost as much as the calories provided by a gram of fat - 9 calories. 

Now, if you are having a mixer added to your alcoholic beverage then the intake of calories especially from sugar are high. 

Let us now talk about the snacks or food consumed with alcohol. As alcohol makes you feel more hungrier you are likely to eat more and also choose the wrong fried foods which all contribute to weight gain. The choice of foods tends to be wrong as you are not clearly thinking after you would have added a couple of glasses of alcohol.  

Too much alcohol tends to bring in lethargy and more sedentary behaviour. This is a risk factor for weight gain. 

Ever wondered what alcohol does to your liver? Since, liver metabolizes alcohol, excess alcohol tends to cause accumulation of fat in the liver. This is called as the fatty liver disease which is a serious condition as it can reduce the functions of the liver in the cirrhotic stage.  

Drink plenty of water: At a social gathering for every glass of alcoholic beverage you consume, drink a glass of water. This will keep you hydrated while drinking and you will tend to drink less. 

Eat before you drink: Eating something fibrous and a protein rich diet will help in controlling blood sugar levels and also provide satiety that can help in curbing binge eating cravings with alcohol. 

Avoid having cocktails or drinks with sodas or colas. This helps you in cutting down the additional calories that leads to weight gain. Always drink in moderation. 

The best approach would be to plan your limit in advance and stick to it. You are likely to take wiser decisions than what you would under the influence of alcohol.