Better Overall Health Through the Elimination (or Moderation) of Alcohol
Having a few drinks once in a blue moon is no biggie, but turning to the bottle (can or glass) too often can certainly put a damper on your overall health status. In fact, according to a national survey, 2017 showed an increase in high-risk drinking behavior of 5 or more drinks per day in women and older adults. Habitual behaviors can be hard to break but research shows that breaking the habit can have a huge impact on your body!
Benefits of skipping your daily nightcap.
Improve SkinAlcohol is a diuretic which depletes the body of needed hydration for healthy looking skin. Lack of hydration of the skin long-term can begin to increase other skin related conditions such as eczema, rosacea and even dandruff. Save MoneyDepending on what your personal drink preference is, you can spend on average $5 to $15 on a single alcoholic beverage at a bar or restaurant. That adds up. Research shows that once you take the first drink, it is difficult to stop. Thus, skipping alcohol entirely in most cases can not only save your health, but can also save your money!Lose WeightBeer, Wine, Mixed drinks and liquor all contain calories, and unfortunately calories are exactly how you pack on the pounds. A study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology revealed that men that drink a “moderate” amount of alcohol consume an average of 433 calories more per day whereas women consume on average 300 extra calories per day. Take away the alcohol and you take away those extra calories stored in the form of fat on your body.
More (Better) sleepA study on the impact of alcohol on sleep revealed that alcohol consumption on healthy individuals can impact quality and quantity of night rest as well as cause daytime sleepiness. Instead of suffering from that unwanted midday lull, invite in enhanced mood, improved focus and mental alertness by skipping that alcohol binge.Controlled Eating habitsIncreased alcohol consumption can increase activity in regions of the brain that make you more sensitive to the scent of food which in turn increases your desire for consumption. Furthermore, some research has shown that alcohol inhibits the part of the brain that invokes willpower and restraint. So skip the extra drinks and feel in control of your life and healthy behaviors!Do you or a loved one suffer from excessive drinking or alcoholism? A phone call can save a life. Learn more about who to call in your time of need.Click HERE to learn more about the Wellview services available to you. We can’t wait to work with you!
– CASEY EDMONDS, CHC
Health Advisor | Email Casey
