Actor-comedian Ricky Gervais says despite daily workouts, he remains ‘fat and exhausted’, The Liver Doc responds, ‘It’s the alcohol Ricky. It’s the alcohol’

Sharing a few studies, he further explained, “Alcohol use contributes to exercise effort intolerance by directly hindering cardiovascular and muscle function, and by interfering with recovery and energy production. These effects compound during physical activity, causing an individual to fatigue more quickly and perform less effectively than they normally would.”

So, what physiological or metabolic factors could explain why someone who exercises daily may still struggle with weight management and persistent fatigue?

Sadhna Singh, senior fitness and lifestyle consultant at HereNow Official, tells indianexpress.com, “Exercise is only one part of the health equation. Weight management and energy levels are largely influenced by total calorie balance, metabolic health, and hormonal regulation. When a person exercises daily but continues to gain weight or feel fatigued, it often points to underlying issues such as excess calorie intake, poor nutrition quality, inadequate recovery, or stress-related hormonal imbalances.” 

She adds that overtraining without sufficient rest can elevate cortisol levels, leading to both fat retention and chronic tiredness. The body perceives this as stress, slowing down metabolism and impairing energy efficiency.

How do nutrition, sleep patterns, and stress levels interact with regular exercise to affect energy levels and body composition?

“These three pillars — nutrition, sleep, and stress — work synergistically with exercise,” notes Singh, adding that poor nutrition deprives the body of the macronutrients and micronutrients needed for muscle recovery and metabolic function. Inadequate sleep disrupts growth hormone and leptin levels, both of which are critical for fat metabolism and muscle repair. 

Chronic stress triggers persistent cortisol elevation, the expert says, which not only impairs recovery but also promotes fat storage, particularly around the abdomen. When any of these areas are neglected, even a solid workout routine cannot deliver desired results.

How does alcohol consumption affect the body’s ability to gain fitness or lose weight, even for those who exercise regularly?

Singh mentions that alcohol “directly interferes with nearly every physiological process required for fitness.” She adds that it alters liver metabolism, reduces fat oxidation, and increases empty calorie intake, making it harder to stay in a calorie deficit. Alcohol also disrupts sleep quality, blunts muscle protein synthesis, and increases inflammation, all of which hinder recovery and muscle growth. 

“Even moderate drinking can offset the benefits of regular exercise by slowing metabolic function and impairing hormonal balance. For someone who trains consistently, alcohol often becomes the hidden factor preventing visible progress and sustained energy,” concludes the expert. 

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.

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