27 October 2023 , 11:55
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Drinking alcohol is so ingrained in our culture, that when you stop, some of your friends may ask you uncomfortable questions and interrogate you about why. But regardless of the reason you quit, whether it's to do Sober October, Dry January, for health reasons, personal reasons, or whether you're simply sober-curious - the benefits are endless.
From reduced diabetes risk to better digestive health, there are so many reasons why you may want to step away from alcohol. Not only that but there are so many fantastic 0% alcohol alternatives around these days that you'll be spoiled for choice when you decide to hit the pub with pals.
Experts told the Daily Mail that when the alcohol leaves the bloodstream, your mood will be "boosted", and you'll be able to better "fight infections." You'll be able to stay more hydrated without consuming alcohol as well, which can even lead to "clearer skin."
And if you've been doing Sober October, by now you'll likely be reaping the benefits, as you'll see "stabilised blood sugars, reduced cholesterol and weight loss."
Experts shared that the benefits of quitting alcohol happen almost immediately after putting the booze down. In two to three days of stopping drinking alcohol, the "toxin clears entirely" and the "bloodstream, kidney, and other organs return back to normal."
'I stopped drinking booze on dates and it made life much more exciting'
In five to seven days, your mood will be "boosted", and your sleep pattern will feel "improved" as your feel-good hormones have returned. Research from the Sleep Foundation found that two drinks for men and one drink for women decreases sleep quality by 24 percent, which can prevent you from getting those much-needed Zzzs.
Amazingly, in 10 days, cells that have been damaged by alcohol consumption "repair themselves", leading to "increased energy", and after a month of quitting alcohol, experts say: "Blood sugar, cholesterol, and weight all decrease, slashing the risk of chronic illnesses like diabetes, cirrhosis, and obesity."
The NHS says: "It's recommended to drink no more than 14 units of alcohol a week, spread across 3 days or more. That's around 6 medium (175ml) glasses of wine, or 6 pints of 4% beer. There's no completely safe level of drinking, but sticking within these guidelines lowers your risk of harming your health."