If you enjoy the occasional adult beverage, you’re not alone.
But what happens to your body when you stop drinking?
Read on to discover how eliminating alcohol can transform your health.
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Your heart health improves.
Abstaining from alcohol can lead to a decrease in blood pressure and reduced cardiovascular disease risk.
A2016 studyfound that those who avoid alcohol or significantly reduce their consumption can experience improved heart function.
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It stands to reason, then, that quitting drinking reduces the risk of heart conditions.
However, it’s worth pointing out that these heart effects are mostly seen in people who drink excessively.
Moderate drinking isn’t associated with an increased risk of heart conditions."
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Your liver will thank you.
According to theNIH, alcohol can contribute to liver inflammation and fatty liver disease.
However, giving up alcohol gives your liver the chance to repair and regenerate.
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“Quitting alcohol allows the liver to regenerate and repair, promoting overall liver health.”
You’ll lose weight.
Alcohol is calorically dense, providing7 calories per gram.
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Moreover, these are “empty calories” that provide no nutritional value.
The drinkers also experienced more cravings for high-fat (high-calorie) foods.
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Your sleep quality will improve.
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While alcohol might initially induce drowsiness,studiessuggest it can disrupt your sleep cycle, leading to poor-quality rest.
By giving up alcohol, you may experience improved sleep quality and duration.
You’ll boost your immune system.
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TheNIHpoints out that alcohol can suppress your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness and infections.
Lubeck says, “Long-term, excessive alcohol use has been associated withpoor immunity.
In fact, such alcohol use may increase your risk of pneumonia, sepsis, and even cancer.
Therefore, giving up booze may be one way to support and possibly improve your immune system.
A better immune system means a lower risk of infections and certain health conditions.”
Your mental health will improve.
Alcohol and mental health are intricately connected.
That’s why abstaining from alcoholic beverages can lead to significant improvements in your psychological well-being.
“Alcohol is a depressant that can negatively impact mental health.
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Quitting alcohol can lead to improvements in mood, reduced anxiety, and better overall mental well-being.
It may also contribute to better stress management and coping mechanisms,” says Best.
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You’ll have more energy.
Drinking negatively affects sleep, and naturally, this affects your mood and energy levels the following day.
Your digestion may improve.
When these functions are impaired, your digestion suffers.
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