Alcohol is no doubt one of the most popular substances used for recreational purposes. As a matter of fact, it is one of the oldest drugs to be discovered by man. Most people use it for the excitement and the apparently temporary calming effect it has on their nerves. As a matter of fact, alcoholic beverages such as beer, vodka, and wine, each have a certain set of benefits in the human body when taken in moderation. Some religions (such as Christianity) and cultures actually embrace the use of alcohol in minimal to moderate amounts. But just like other soft and hard drugs, alcohol doesn’t come without its fair share of risks, side effects, and repercussions, both physically and mentally, as well as emotionally. With addiction and dependence being the most conspicuous problems, the list of disadvantages of alcohol may be too long to fit the scope and volume of this article. But there is good in reducing your alcohol intake or minimizing exposure. This being the case, here are the top 4 benefits to cutting back on your drinking habits.
- You can lose weight
Unbeknownst to most drinkers, alcoholic beverages are high in calories. Of all these drinks, beer tends to lead with approximately 150 calories from just a pint of the beverage. From just a standard glass of white wine, you’re putting approximately 121 calories more into your body. Research has proven that reducing the amount of alcohol you take per week can significantly lead to weight loss.
- Better mood, focus, and cognition
Especially when taken in large quantities, alcohol is known to tamper with the CNS neurotransmitters that regulate mood, focus, cognition, and concentration. The more alcohol you consume, the greater your risk of stress, depression, and anxiety is increased. Moreover, you’re more likely to suffer from concentration deficit the next morning or day after heavy drinking due to what is popularly known as a hangover. Cutting back on the habit can improve your concentration, mood, focus, and cognition.
- Better Overall Health
When consumed in larger amounts, especially at a higher frequency, alcohol can be toxic in your body. It can affect your liver, gut health, the immune system, your skin health, and much more. Cutting back on your alcohol intake can reduce the inflammation in your GIT, reduce the strain on your liver and eliminate the amount of acetaldehyde toxins formed in your body. This can result in a healthier stomach, stronger immunity, healthier liver, and better sleep. These, combined with the psychological and CNS benefits of quitting or reducing your alcohol consumption improve your overall health.
- Better Relationships
More often than not, alcohol leads to relationship problems. Research has shown that a larger percentage of relationships where one or both partners in a couple are drunkards or habitual users of alcohol tend to fail or turn out to be toxic. Cutting back on alcohol intake can improve your romantic, social, and professional relationships.
In summary, alcohol can be damaging to your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Cutting back on the habit or quitting drinking altogether can get you back on track in the above-mentioned ways and more.
