When you stop drinking alcohol, your body will go through a series of changes, both physical and mental. Here are some of the things that can happen:
Short-term effects:
- Increased hydration: As your blood alcohol levels reduce, you will experience increased hydration.
- Withdrawal symptoms: If you’re a heavy drinker, your body may rebel at first if you cut off all alcohol. You could break out in cold sweats or have a racing pulse, nausea, vomiting, shaky hands, and intense anxiety. Some people even have seizures or see things that aren’t there (hallucinations).
- Better sleep: Giving up alcohol may lead to better sleep.
- Less anxiety: Quitting alcohol may ease any depression and anxiety and elevate your self-esteem.
- Clearer head: You may experience a clearer head when you stop drinking alcohol.
- Glowier skin: Your skin may look healthier and more radiant.
Long-term effects:
- Repair liver damage: Quitting alcohol can help repair liver damage.
- Weight loss: Giving up alcohol’s empty calories may lead to weight loss.
- Reduced risk of cancer: While scientists don’t know for sure, some studies suggest that quitting alcohol may lower your chances for cancer.
- Improved brain function: Your brain seems to be able to regain some of its abilities when you quit alcohol.
- Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke: Drinking in excess increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke, so quitting alcohol can help reduce this risk.
- Improved relationships, work, and health: Giving up drinking may let you focus on your relationships, work, and health.
It’s important to note that everyone’s body will respond differently to giving up alcohol, and some people may experience more severe withdrawal symptoms than others. If you’re feeling hopeless or out-of-control because of heavy drinking, it’s important to seek professional medical support.