Here’s What Happens When You Stop Drinking Alcohol

Wondering what happens to your body when you stop drinking alcohol? It’s fascinating how quickly your body reacts to things, both added and removed from your diet.

It was fascinating to find out all the things that occurred when I gave up soda, so next on my list was quitting alcohol. I wouldn’t say I have given it up completely, because I assume there will come a time soon where I may partake in a glass of wine at dinner or a cold beer on a summer day. But for now, I’m just kind of over the stuff.

Being sober is a current Hollywood trend and one of the few I can get behind. So let’s take a look at what happens on the inside when you go sober and quit drinking alcohol.

Here’s What Happens When You Stop Drinking Alcohol

Your Blood Pressure Lowers

If high blood pressure is a concern of yours like it is for millions of people, cutting out alcohol is one sure-fire way to start to drop those numbers. Within just a few weeks of quitting alcohol, your blood pressure may lower.

This study showed after a month of alcohol abstinence, male heavy drinkers significantly reduced their blood pressure and heart rate. This could be one of the easiest ways to help maintain a healthy blood pressure.

You’ll Sleep Better

Did you know that alcohol can reduce melatonin secretion in your brain? This can often result in a poor quality of sleep. Sure, it feels sometimes like drinking helps you fall asleep easily, but you don’t get actually get any good sleep.

Moderate amounts of alcohol reduced sleep quality by 24% and high amounts reduced sleep quality by 39%. (Source article on sleep & alcohol.)

Your Liver Begins To Heal

The liver is an extremely important organ that is responsible for things like filtering toxins and regulating your cholesterol. According to NHS, each time your liver filters alcohol, some of the liver cells die. If you have fatty liver disease, your liver can heal itself in just two weeks if you give up alcohol since this organ is so resilient.

You’ll Get Sick Less

Did you know drinking can blunt your immune system? If you find yourself seemingly catching every cold that goes around, maybe reduce your alcohol intake and see if that helps you.

The Alcohol and Drug Foundation says that drinking 5-6 drinks in a single session can suppress the immune system for up to 24-hours. (source) Long term drinking can cause your immune system to have to work harder and your symptoms can last longer.

Your Sex Life May Improve

Men and women alike can be affected in the bedroom by alcohol use. because it “interferes with the signals between the brain and the genitals.” (source) Give it up and see if the romance doesn’t improve.

Your Skin Might Look Better

Because alcohol will dehydrate you, when you are not being stripped of hydration, your skin will look healthier. Kicking the drinking habit is also said to help with conditions like dandruff and eczema. If you have psoriasis or rosacea, drinking can make those worse as well. (source)

Good Luck

Whatever reasons you have for reducing your alcohol intake, I think you’ll find a healthy version of yourself at the end of it.