This Is What Happens to Your Body When You Cut Down On Boozing - You May Be In For Some Pleasant Surprises.

84% of global drinkers are looking to curb their alcohol consumption - but why are they doing that?

You might have heard of Dry January, where millions around the world cut their alcohol consumption for a full month, but what will it actually do for you?

If you'd like to try it and don't know where to start, we have just the right guide for you: 5 EASY STEPS TO MAKE DRY JANUARY EFFORTLESS.

Many studies have shown that even limiting drinking for short period, the health benefits are immense. Whether you have already decided to cut back or even just thinking about it, here is What Happens to Your Body When You Limit Drinking.

Improved Mood

Our general mental health has been deteriorating long before Lockdowns began. If you think alcohol is going to help, you may be in for a rough ride. 

If you're already feeling stressed or anxious, drinking is likely to make it much worse. It is technically true that alcohol is a (liquid) solution, but not a solution to your problems.

Many have pointed out the 'fear' after a boozy night out and it is no secret that alcohol affects your mood the next day, leaving you feeling low, exhausted and anxious.

By drinking less, you'll likely feel happier, for longer periods of time*. 

More R.E.M. Sleep

While some people swear by alcohol's ability to help them drop off, it is also common for them to suffer from lower quality sleep. 

There are two main types of sleep, REMS and Non-REMS (REMS stands for Rapid Eye Movement Sleep). REM sleep is essential for restorative sleep and is often associated with dreams. 

Alcohol is a well-known disruptor of REM sleep. Studies have shown that prolonged REMS deprivation can lead to significant impairments with learning and cognitive problem-solving skills.

Now that you're limiting your intake, you should notice your sleep quality improving. A good way to measure that is to use Sleep Analytic Apps like Sleep Cycle.

Better Focus

In a never-boring world filled with unlimited distractions, focus is the new currency.

You don't need to have a pounding headache for alcohol to start affecting your work the next day. Studies have shown that there are both short and long term effects on concentration and memory associated with excessive alcohol consumption. 

With reduced consumption, you'll be looking at achieving states of deep focus when working which is rather rare nowadays.

May Lose Weight

Alcohol is loaded with calories. Everyone knows that. A standard serving of beer at 12 ounces is nearly 330 calories and a normal 5 ounce glass of wine contains more than 120 calories. 

Moreover, the calories in alcohol are known to be 'empty calories', ones that do not provide any nutritional value. 

According to a 2017 study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, those who binged on alcohol at a minimum of once a month were 41% more likely to become overweight!

If you're a woman, drinking more than four glasses of wine in one sitting already counts as binge drinking. 

Better Immune System

Nowadays, especially with COVID rampaging all across the globe, a healthy immune system is ever more important. 

According to The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, alcohol significantly suppresses your immune system, making it harder to fight off illnesses.

It does so by interfering with your body's ability to naturally produce cytokines, a chemical that is known to fend off infections.

Better Looking Skin

Dehydration is one of the easiest ways to damage your skin, evidenced by the abundance of moisturising skincare products. Alcohol acting as a potent diuretic, it can increase fluid loss and lead of dehydration.

Although you may not feel its effects immediately, damage has been done. Studies have shown that alcohol increases the rate of premature skin ageing. When people stop drinking, noted by Dr. Wakim-Fleming, their skin often appears healthier.

Conclusion

So there you have it, this is why so many drinkers around the world are actively trying to limit their drinking - and rightly so for the benefits it brings are immense!

If you are interested in alcohol alternatives that offer more than just taste and flavour, feel free to check out IMPOSSIBREW Lager, alcohol-free beer that is brewed for relaxation.