A new study has found that alcohol consumption may influence food cravings in surprising ways, potentially driving people toward more savory foods and contributing to overeating.

Researchers from the University of Sydney reported their findings in the journal Obesity Reviews, highlighting a hormonal connection that could help explain why people often reach for salty snacks after drinking.

The review analyzed existing research on how alcohol affects eating behavior and found inconsistent results across studies.

While alcohol alone adds calories, its overall impact on daily caloric intake depends heavily on the types of foods consumed alongside it.

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According to the researchers, alcohol consumption may increase levels of a hormone known as FGF21. This hormone has been shown to heighten the preference for savory, umami-rich foods while reducing the desire for sweet foods.

The study suggested that this biological shift affects how people choose foods when drinking.

In environments where people primarily eat minimally processed foods, higher FGF21 levels might lead to cravings for satisfying, protein-rich meals.

These foods naturally limit overeating because they deliver the nutrients the body needs.

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However, in diets dominated by ultra-processed foods that mimic savory flavors without providing much protein, alcohol-triggered cravings can greatly increase calorie intake.

The researchers called these low-protein but savory foods “protein decoys,” which leave people unsatisfied and prone to consume more.

The Australian research team reviewed data from previous experimental studies and surveys involving more than 9,000 participants. They found that people who drank alcohol reported eating far more savory and fewer sweet foods on drinking days compared with non-drinking days.

Participants who consumed alcohol alongside an ultra-processed, high-fat, low-protein diet exceeded their recommended daily calorie intake by 40 percent — not including the calories from alcohol itself.

The researchers suggested that this pattern may have contributed to rising obesity rates in populations with high alcohol and processed food intake.

The authors hypothesized that differences in participants’ dietary patterns could explain why past studies reached inconsistent conclusions about alcohol’s role in weight gain.

They stressed that while their analysis was based on strong associations, it did not directly measure hormonal changes such as FGF21 levels.

They also noted the study’s limitations, acknowledging that much of their data came from population surveys instead of controlled experiments. Even so, they concluded that limiting processed savory foods could help reduce the risk of weight gain among those who drink regularly.

Morgan Beemiller, a registered dietitian based in Ohio, said the findings aligned with what is already known about how alcohol affects eating behavior. “Alcohol is known to affect several biological and behavioral systems that influence food cravings,” she told Fox News Digital.

Beemiller explained that alcohol interferes with appetite regulation and the brain’s reward pathways, while also altering taste perception. She recommended eating balanced meals with protein, fiber, and healthy fats before drinking, such as chicken with rice and salad or salmon with potatoes and broccoli.

Planning ahead can also help curb poor choices later in the evening, Beemiller said. Having healthy foods available before drinking can make a big difference when late-night cravings hit.

She advised keeping convenient, minimally processed snacks such as nuts, cheese, fruit, hummus, vegetables, or hard-boiled eggs on hand.

Staying hydrated is also essential, and alternating alcoholic drinks with water can help limit alcohol intake and reduce hangover symptoms.

Beemiller noted that drinking less is generally better for overall health but offered tips for those who choose to drink. She recommended moderate consumption and choosing low-sugar options like dry wine, light beer, or cocktails made with fresh juices rather than syrups.

High-sugar drinks such as margaritas, daiquiris, and sweet dessert wines should be avoided, as should calorie-heavy mixers, Beemiller said.

Sparkling water can serve as a lighter alternative for cocktails.

Finally, she urged people to rethink why they drink. “Choose alcohol for enjoyment, not stress management,” she said, emphasizing the importance of mindful consumption when it comes to both alcohol and food.