7 surprising benefits of cutting back on booze

Apr 05, 2021

If you’re thinking of taking a break from alcohol, here are some of the lesser-known health benefits that you might experience. I bet you didn't even think about these additional benefits.

Happy woman stretching in bed

1. You’ll sleep better 

Alcohol might make you feel sleepy, but it’s definitely not an aid to a good nights sleep. In fact, drinking alcohol can greatly reduce the quality of your sleep.

After you’ve had a drink, you spend less of the night in REP sleep (deep restorative sleep). On top of this, you are more likely to wake in the early hours and not be able to go back to sleep leaving you grouchy and sleep deprived. 

Try this: Sans Bar Notting Hill Stroll (Gin Substitute) is vegan friendly and low in sugar and calories.

 

2. Drink your way to glowing skin 

As the founder of Nourished Life, I know a thing or two about looking after your skin so I can tell you that it’s not just the quality sleep that gives non-drinkers a healthy glow.

Alcohol is a diuretic – which means that one too many can leave your skin horribly dehydrated. Having a break from alcohol gives your skin a chance to rehydrate, and, on top of this, you could see a reduction in dandruff, eczema and rosacea. 

Try this: For hydrating zero-alcohol drinks try a electrolyte enhanced sports beer or non-alcoholic wine alternative like the NON range which is made from filtered water.  

Non range of non-alc drinks on a table

Zero+ Pale Ale

3. Better sex without alcohol

Alcohol might put you in the mood, but it can also hinder performance (*whispers * alcohol is often associated with erectile dysfunction). 

There is more to it than that though. A 2018 study found that alcohol was associated with feelings of regret after sex. So while a drink can help you lower inhibitions, sober sex can leave you feeling more confident about the decisions you make in the bedroom. 

Try this: French champagne is a sexy date night drink to share with your partner. Thomson & Scott Noughty is said to be the non-alcoholic sparkling wine that is closet to a good French champagne. 

Thomson & Scott Noughty 

 

4. Happier without alcohol

While many people drink to relax, alcohol can have a damaging impact on your mood. In fact, some people might find themselves feeling a bit down or grumpy the day after a big drinking session. 

It turns out that alcohol can interfere with the neurotransmitters in our brains, leaving us more susceptible to sadness and anxiety

Try this: Wild Life Botanicals is a sparkling wine that includes an array of botanicals including Ashwagandha which has known to lift energy and mood. 

Wild Life Botanicals Sparkling Blush 

 

5. A brighter smile 

Well, of course – you’ll be happier and having better sex! 

Reducing your alcohol intake can have a positive effect on your dental health. Speak to your dentist at your next check up around the risks of excess alcohol and potential dental health problems.  

 

6. You’ll consume less calories with non-alcoholic drinks

Non-alcoholic drinks tend to have fewer calories than the boozy versions (plus, alcohol changes the way that our bodies process calories).

Try this: If you are looking for some low calorie options I recommend these:

Giesen 0% Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc - 16 Cal

7. Better for your Gut-Health

A major issue caused by excess alcohol is the change to the microbiome levels which can result in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) causing physical discomfort and bloating.

This is just a small selection of benefits that come with giving up or cutting back on alcohol. 

When you consider all of this, it’s amazing that anyone still wants to drink alcohol – especially when there are so many fantastic alternatives. 

Try this: Kombucha is a wonderful way to support your general wellbeing. 

Monceau Pét Nat Kombucha

Related: 7 Non-Alcoholic Drinks For Your Beauty Routine

(Sources: Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research, Jan 2015; American Academy of Dermatology, April 2017; Drug abuse impairs sexual performance in men even after rehabilitation, University of Granada, Jan 2013; The University of Exeter, December 2018; Effect of alcohol consumption on food energy intake: a systematic review and meta-analysis – Cambridge University Press – 29 Jan 2019; Alcohol depletes your stores of vitamins and minerals – Health and Science – September 2018)

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