The #SoberCurious movement is gaining traction, with over 750,000 uses of the hashtag on Instagram as more people experiment with giving up alcohol—whether temporarily, like in Dry January, or for good.
But what really happens to your body when you stop drinking? Experts reveal the immediate and long-term effects of quitting alcohol.
Alcohol’s Impact on Your Body
Alcohol affects nearly every system in your body. According to Dr. Matthew Mosquera, Medical Director of the Alcohol, Drugs, and Addiction Inpatient Program at McLean Hospital and an instructor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, alcohol primarily impacts the liver, cardiovascular system, and cognitive function.
Liver: While light drinkers may experience minimal effects, heavy drinking can lead to severe liver inflammation, potentially resulting in liver disease, cancer, or acute hepatitis. The liver works hard to process and filter alcohol, but excessive consumption can overwhelm its capabilities.
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Cardiovascular System: Alcohol disrupts your body’s homeostasis, leading to dehydration, elevated blood pressure, and increased heart rate. Even light drinking can have these effects, as shown by research published in the journal Hypertension.
Cognitive Function: Alcohol impairs memory and increases anxiety. Prolonged consumption can cause structural changes in the brain, accelerating cognitive decline. The impact on your brain isn’t limited to temporary blackouts but can lead to serious long-term issues.
Additionally, alcohol can cause inflammation in the stomach, disrupt digestion, impair sleep, and affect hormone levels. Over time, these effects increase the risk of cancer, decrease libido, and contribute to mood changes.
What Happens When You Stop Drinking?
Ironically, some of the first symptoms of quitting alcohol are similar to the effects of drinking, such as anxiety, restlessness, and sleep disturbances. However, these symptoms typically subside as your body adjusts.
First Few Days: Without alcohol, your sleep quality improves as you begin to enter deeper REM sleep. You’ll also feel more hydrated, which helps lower your heart rate and increase your energy levels.
After One Week: Your immune system starts to recover, hormones begin to stabilize, and for heavy drinkers, liver health starts to improve.
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After One Month: Your skin becomes more hydrated and nourished, leading to noticeable improvements. You may also experience some weight loss as you eliminate the calories from alcohol.
After Three Months: Mental clarity improves, anxiety levels stabilize, and you start getting more restorative sleep.
After Six Months: Your immune system optimizes, and your body functions more efficiently. You’ll notice improvements in digestion and overall health.
After One Year: Your risk of cancer significantly decreases, your emotional well-being improves, and you feel more resilient.
How to Stop Drinking
If you’re considering giving up alcohol, your approach should depend on your current consumption. Light drinkers may not need to taper off, but heavy drinkers should plan carefully to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Consulting a doctor before quitting cold turkey is recommended for those who drink heavily.
Understanding why you drink is also essential. Whether it’s for stress relief or social connection, finding healthy alternatives can help you maintain your commitment to sobriety. Instead of meeting friends at a bar, try a workout class or a walk. Replace alcohol with activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
The Bottom Line
Quitting alcohol without a plan can be challenging, so ensure you have strategies in place to fill the emotional void. Whether it’s trying non-alcoholic beverages or engaging in new hobbies, finding what works for you will make the transition easier and more sustainable.