The Long-Term Benefits of Quitting Alcohol

Embarking on the journey of quitting alcohol can bring about profound changes in both physical and mental well-being. Both physical and mental health will significantly improve over an extended period, leading to a rejuvenated body and a clearer mind.

Health and Well-being Improvements Over Time

The improvement in health and well-being is not a fleeting effect but a continuous process. After an initial detox, the body begins to heal from regular poisoning, and the mind starts to clear. With proper long-term support and guidance, the cessation can become a permanent change, leading to a blossoming of the mental and emotional life. This process continues over the next five to ten years as the body works tirelessly to heal the damage caused by alcohol.

Personal Insight on the Long-Term Effects of Quitting Drinking

From my perspective, the long-term effects of quitting drinking are:

You May Avoid Accidents

A significant percentage of fatal injuries, including burns, drownings, and killings, and even a considerable number of road accidents, falls, and suicides, are alcohol-related. Even if complete abstinence is not required, reducing drinking can lead to fewer accidents and sick days. Cutting down or cutting back on drinking can reduce accidents and sick days by nearly a third.

Your Hearts Health Improves

While regular consumption of red wine or alcoholic beverages may seem beneficial for the heart, the benefits may only apply to mild drinkers who consume less than one drink a day. For those who consume more, reducing or stopping drinking can lower blood pressure, triglyceride levels, and the risk of heart failure. This is a positive step towards better cardiovascular health.

Your Liver Could Recover

The liver filters toxins, and alcohol also poisons liver cells. Heavy drinking, defined as eight or more drinks for women and at least 15 for men per week, can damage the liver and cause cirrhosis, fatty liver, and other issues. Fortunately, the liver may renew and even heal itself. Hence, it is always worthwhile to cut back or stop drinking.

You Might Lose Weight

A serving of wine contains around 120 calories, and a glass of beer has about 150 calories. Alcohol also increases hunger and impairs decision-making, leading to more impulsive eating. As a result, weight loss may occur when alcohol consumption is reduced. This makes quitting drinking a viable option for those aiming to lose weight.

Your Connections Might Get Better

While social drinking in moderation can improve mood and strengthen relationships, heavy drinking can turn into a habit and potentially develop into alcohol use disorder. Stopping drinking can help concentrate on relationships, job, and health, reducing anxiety and depression levels, and boosting self-esteem.

Moderate Uncertainty in Reduced Cancer Risk

Heavy drinking increases the risk of various cancers, including those of the mouth, throat, breast, and oesophagus. Whether giving up alcohol reduces cancer risk and how long it takes is unclear. However, some research suggests potential benefits.

Your Sexual Life Might Get Better

Alcohol initially makes couples more flirtatious but can have the opposite effect if consumed in excess. Reducing alcohol consumption may improve one's romantic relationship and enhance sexual satisfaction. Women may experience less vaginal dryness and decreased sex drive if they cut down on alcohol.

You'll Get More Rest

Alcohol may initially make you feel drowsy but can disrupt sleep by waking you several times during the night and disturbing crucial REM sleep. It can also affect breathing and increase the need to use the restroom. For a more comfortable sleep, avoid alcohol, especially in the late afternoon and evening.

Less Illnesses

Binge drinking can weaken the body's ability to fight off germs for up to 24 hours, and excessive alcohol gradually weakens the immune system. Reducing alcohol consumption can help fend off ailments. If you have high blood pressure, stopping or reducing drinking can lower it. Discuss your readings with your doctor. Blood pressure should be less than 120/80, and high blood pressure is indicated if it is greater than 130/80.

Organize Your Mind

Long-term alcohol consumption can impair cognitive function and memory. Over time, heavy drinking can slow down and weaken motor skills, distort sense of distance and volume, and make it harder to read emotions. However, it seems the brain can recover some of these skills if one stops drinking.