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What happens when you stop drinking alcohol?
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Pretty much everything youd expectand also plenty that you might not.
First, theres the obvious: better sleep, less anxiety, and a clearer head.
Then, there are the benefits you probably havent considered.
Like:glowier skin,hotter sex, anddeeper relationshipsjust to name a few.
Cutting out booze has the potential of increasing self-awareness, self-confidence, andself-esteem, too.
Life isnt necessarily easier without alcohol, but its far more fulfilling.
As one doctor I interviewed put it, when you quit alcohol, your entire body and soul improves.
After all, alcohol is literally everywhere, and its consumption is ingrained into our culture and societal norms.
Alcohol is the only socially-accepted mind-altering beverage in the world, saysDr.
Its served at parties, during meals, and on holidays.
For most people, its just a part of daily life.
Accept it, learn, and gain insight as you go.
The body and the soul dont improve overnight, in other words.
To that end, its important to stay patientand persistent.
Good advice for any challenging situation, really.
Tanya Mezher, a certified dietary nutritionist and the founding practitioner at functional medicine platformMallaagrees.
Recovery takes time, and setbacks may occur, she warns.
Stay committed to your goals.
You dont have to go it alone and quitting cold turkey is not advisable.
How long does alcohol stay in your system?
Notably, youll experience increased hydration as your reduced blood alcohol levels reduce.
This could be the most critical part of stopping without a medical intervention, Girgis says.
The liver, which is responsible for metabolizing alcohol, will also begin to reset and repair.
After one to two weeks
By now, you should be feeling a marked difference.
Plus, any improvements youve recently noticed in your skin, energy, and sleep quality will only increase.
Liver enzyme levels and blood pressure have normalized, reducing the risk of cirrhosis and heart disease.
Cardiovascular levels are also improved, which may also contribute to weight loss and visible changes in your physique.
After three months
You may suddenly notice youre seeing the world through a rosier lens.
Therisk of developing certain cancers, as well as liver andheart diseaseare also more markedly reduced.
And, many people also report more fulfillment in their relationships and work as their self-esteem and confidence increase.
My feelings is that it truly takes one year for your body to return to normal, Girgis says.
Share your intentions with friends and family who can provide encouragement, Mezer advises.
Wiseman agrees that communicating your choices is essential when it comes to keeping yourself alcohol-free.
To that end, its also important to build support in other ways.
Wiseman recommends creating new, healthy habits to replace your old routine.
Find an at-home hobby, he says.
Pick up a book or do something that youve been putting off.
Dont overthink it; just start with five minutes and youll be amazed what can happen.
When outside the home, its also a good idea to have a plan.
In the meantime, dont neglect the self-care basics.
Nutrition and hydration are your friends, says Grigis.
Choose healthy foods and beverages, and remember to be physically activeeven if its just walking around the neighborhood.
Know this, Grigis says.
The decision to stop drinking is yours, and though its a daily commitment, it is possibleand wonderful.
