health

What actually happens to your body when you cut alcohol out entirely?

Published 11:32 8 May 2024 BST

Sophie Collins

What actually happens to your body when you cut alcohol out entirely?

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Have you ever wondered what the benefits of giving up alcohol entirely are?

Whether you drink once or twice a month, or once or twice a week, there are serious health benefits for those who abstain from drinking alcohol altogether.

If you’re thinking of giving it a go, you’ll start to reap the benefits as early as one week later, and the benefits of no alcohol felt one month later might be enough to never go back.

According to Drink Aware, here is what happens your body when you cut the drink out:

Within 1 Week

According to Drink Aware, after one week of stopping drinking, the body experiences several positive changes, like:

Better hydration

Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it increases urine output and dehydrates the body. After just one week without alcohol, your body will be better hydrated, and you may notice improved skin quality and less bloating.

Increased energy

Alcohol can be taxing on the body, and heavy drinking can lead to fatigue and low energy. After one week without alcohol, you should notice that your energy levels are higher and you feel more productive.

Improved mood

Alcohol can affect the brain’s neurotransmitters, which can lead to changes in mood and behaviour. After one week without alcohol, you may experience improved mood and feel less anxious or depressed.

Within 1 month

After one month of stopping drinking, the body can experience several positive changes, like:

Improved liver function

Over time, your liver function can improve. The liver is responsible for processing alcohol, and drinking can cause liver damage.

Healthier skin

Alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration, which can cause skin to appear dry and dull. Once you stop drinking alcohol completely, the body can better maintain hydration levels, leading to healthier-looking skin.

Weight loss

Alcoholic beverages can be high in calories, and heavy drinking can lead to weight gain. If you quit drinking, some people may experience weight loss, especially if they also make dietary changes and increase physical activity.

It is important to note that the exact changes that occur in the body may vary depending on individual factors such as the length and severity of use.