Some studies suggest a small amount is beneficial for health, while others suggest there is no safe amount to consume. But one thing is for certain – if you consume too much alcohol, it can lead to serious consequences, especially for your liver.
You may have heard of ‘Dry January’ or ‘Dry February,’ which are efforts to get people to put down the glass of booze. You may think it is a gimmick, but it may be wise to give your body a break from alcohol. Here are 9 reasons why.
9 Things That Happen to Your Body When You Give up Alcohol
Brain tissue growth: Consuming large amounts of alcohol can lead to deficiencies in thiamine (vitamin B1). B1 is essential for tissue growth, especially in the brain, which can contribute to memory. The good news is that alcohol-induced memory problems are reversible, as long as you quit drinking, or at least cut back significantly.
Improve liver health: We all know that alcohol can negatively impact the liver and long-term alcohol consumption can lead to irreversible damage. To reduce your risk of liver disease, it’s best to avoid alcohol altogether.
Balance gut bacteria: Alcohol can disrupt the bacteria balance in the gut, and these imbalances can lead to other illnesses.
Improve digestion: Adding to the previous point, by quitting drinking, you will also notice that your digestion improves as you will have less inflammation. Cutting out alcohol also lowers your risk of acid reflux and gastritis.
Sleep improvements: Although alcohol makes you tired, it actually disrupts your sleep, meaning you won’t get a good night’s rest. In fact, you’ll probably wake up feeling more tired and less energized.
Clear skin: Alcohol dehydrates you and triggers inflammation, which can show up on your skin. You may notice more wrinkles and fine lines, puffiness, and redness. Furthermore, if your alcohol consumption has led to liver problems, your skin may appear yellowish as a result of jaundice.
Healthier eating: When you’re drinking, you often become hungry. While inebriated, you don’t tend to make the best food choices. So, you opt for chips, fast foods, and other processed foods that are all unhealthy. Even the next day when you’re hungover, you may continue eating unhealthily.
Weight loss: Alcohol contains a slew of calories. The more you drink, the more calories you’re taking in. Pair that with poor food choices, and you set yourself up for added pounds.
You’ll drink less over time: By eliminating alcohol for a while, you will find you drink less because you will enjoy feeling so good. It makes you more aware of how poorly alcohol makes you feel. Studies have shown that people who take a break tend to drink less in the future, which is even better for your health.
Also read:
- How long does alcohol stay in your system?
- Why it’s important to control your alcohol intake
- Alcohol and memory loss: How does alcohol impact brain health and memory loss?