Drunkorexia - What is it and how can it harm you?
One in 20 women admit that they've skipped meals so they can use calories on alcohol instead.
Five per cent of women in the UK admit they've skipped meals or have eaten less so they can save their calories for alcohol.
Experts have dubbed the trend 'drunkorexia' and believe as many as 1 in 20 women admit to the practice.
It's believed to be fueled this time of year as many people look for 'quick fixes' to weight loss after the indulgence of Christmas.
Campaigners worry that women don't realise the danger of drunkorexia or the impact it can have on the body.
While many women are concerned with gaining weight from drinking, only 23 per cent of women surveyed thought their health would improve if they cut down on drinking.
Colin Shevills, Director of Balance North East said: "When you think that a large glass of wine is the same as a slice of cake, that's a lot of calories.
"But it's a lot of empty calories as well, there's no real nutritional value in alcohol.
"You don't get the essential vitamins and minerals you get with food, we need to be talking about people having a healthy balanced diet."
The Department of Health guidelines announced last week that no more than 14 units over three days should be consumed.
Independent nutritionist, Fiona Hunter, said: “Swapping food for alcohol is never a good idea.
"As many of us know, alcohol is packed with calories, however it is important to remember that these calories are ‘empty’, meaning that they have no nutritional value.
"For those looking to lose weight or improve their health in the New Year without having to abstain from alcohol, reducing alcohol intake with a drink diet, or ‘driet’ may be a healthier alternative to ‘drunkorexia’."