Anonymous wrote:Given what OP describes, if this is a red flag it would be for an eating disorder rather than an alcohol problem. I’ve had friends who would only drink cocktails with diet mixers for calorie reasons. It does not sound like problematic behavior absent other indications.
OP, hoping that the idea of purchasing alcohol that only your SIL likes in order to have it available to offer her during visits just hadn’t occurred to you before. That’s okay! Not all cultures would have that be a standard response. But, it would be a kind thing to do and probably make her feel more welcome and comfortable at family events, and given her preferences, does not seem especially inconvenient or expensive to accommodate. Hopefully this thread will encourage you to purchase a bottle of gin (ask your brother what she likes) and keep some bottles of tonic around.
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In what universe is watching calories a red flag for an “eating disorder”? My mom was told by her doctor that she was pre-diabetic. She’s allowed to drink alcohol in moderation. What works for her is one serving of diet tonic and either gin or vodka. At a casual (and allegedly family) BBQ event, why not bring something of your own if you either don’t like or can’t have what’s on offer? My mom would have her one diet cocktail, then fills up a plate with mostly vegetables and protein. She enjoys the BBQ experience without needing a beer or a bun. Let people live. Jesus. Why do we have to assign “disorders” to every little thing?