We might all be too familiar with the range of feelings one has the day after a night of drinking. From dull drowsiness, to an excruciating hangover, the results are less than pleasurable. Sometimes we declare, “I’m never drinking again!” between forced gulps of water after a night that’s left us shamefully dehydrated.
Well, what if you called yourself on that bluff and actually stopped drinking alcohol? What would happen? We’ve unpacked the results. You may think again before you order that glass of prosecco at happy hour.
How Does Your Body React to an Alcohol Detox?
If you’re back on the wagon, your body will take note. Whether you want to improve your complexion, sleep better, or lose weight, making the choice to stop drinking alcohol is linked to many benefits. And when you say “nope” to that $13 glass of Pinot, your wallet will also take note and probably thank you.
Depending on how much alcohol a person is used to consuming, there will be varying effects to how a person’s body will react. There are definite benefits to removing alcohol from your diet, but just like breaking any long-lasting habit, it isn’t always easy, and it isn’t always pretty. But if you hang in there, you can reap the rewards.
Your Body Might Go Through a Withdrawal
Depending on how much alcohol you’re used to drinking, you may want to consult with a doctor before changing your routine. Alcohol changes your brain chemistry, so both your brain and body will take notice if quit drinking, and there will be reactions. The first 48 hours of withdrawal are the hardest on the body. Withdrawal symptoms may include insomnia, anxiety, sweating, and shaking. Withdrawal symptoms don’t last forever. If you can power through those initial couple days, it gets easier.
You’ll Eventually Sleep Better
Alcohol has a sedating effect so it’s not uncommon for adults to reach for a “nightcap” before bed. This is not good practice if you actually want a good night’s sleep. Drinking alcohol before bed has adverse effects to sleep quality and overall health. According to National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, “alcohol consumed within an hour of bedtime appears to disrupt the second half of the sleep period…This sleep disruption may lead to daytime fatigue and sleepiness.” If you manage to fall asleep without drinking alcohol you’ll actually have a better rest. A good rest is essential for a healthy life.
Your Body Will Lose Excess Fat
A six-pack of beer is just under 1000 calories and a Piña Colada is nearly 500 calories, according to a United States government-sponsored study. Because you’re removing these excess calories from your diet, you are likely to lose weight. Even if you don’t increase your physical activity, you can lose about 13 pounds of belly fat in a year. The fat on your liver will also be reduced by 15% in just your first month without alcohol.
Your Skin Will Improve
Alcohol is a diuretic and diuretics are dehydrating because they force frequent trips to the bathroom. In addition to dehydrating the body, alcohol also inhibits the antidiuretic hormone—not allowing the body to reabsorb water. This dehydrating process shows in your skin, from wrinkles to eczema, to even dandruff. When you stop drinking alcohol, you’ll notice a visible positive change in your skin.
Drink Responsibly and in Moderation
If you’re going to drink, be responsible about it. A glass of wine or beer with dinner can be permitted if you’re within the legal drinking age. We have suggested wine and beer pairings for our meal kits. Shop for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and desserts: We have it all.