subject: The Medical Benefits of Giving Up Alcohol [print this page] The Medical Benefits of Giving Up Alcohol
This article will address some of the primary physical benefits of abstaining from alcohol, and then will discuss the mental and psychological advantages of quitting drinking.
You are not going to hear too many arguments in favor of drinking alcohol. Of course they will say a little is good for the heart, or that a glass of red wine everyday makes for a healthy heart and increases longevity. Science, however, is really inconclusive with respect to any medicinal effects of alcohol. With respect to the wine theory that is still under debate, grape juice and grapes themselves proved to be equally effective.
There are many proven positive effects when one ceases to consume alcoholic beverages. There are countless articles that detail how not drinking alcohol improves your physical and mental health. Non-drinkers have far less chance of developing cirrhosis of the liver, pancreas damage and many forms of cancer. Alcohol dehydrates the human body. One of the first positive physical effects you will notice is that you skin will become clearer, more vibrant and youthful. This happens in the first week of abstaining from alcohol. It's amazing what being hydrated will do for your skin. An increase in energy is another effect that should be felt in the first week of quitting.
While the physical effects on your body are extremely important, it is positive state of mind and mental effects that will be most noticeable. If you ever have quit a substance that you had been using often or even abusing you know that at you begin to realize that you do feel better. You are proud of the fact you have stop using and even more pleased that you feel good about it. Improved self-esteem gives a huge boost to those who quit drinking.
You will find that when you quit drinking you will have more time - for work, hobbies, friends and family. Life is all about engaging in personal relationships with other human beings. As you begin to feel better physically, mentally, emotionally and psychologically you will become more involved in your own life, and those who care about you will also reap the benefits as you reconnect on a healthy, positive level.
As you rejoin life after alcohol old hobbies may regain the enjoyment you once knew, and the thought of trying out something new will sound exciting. New interests like art, athletics or social clubs could invigorate and bring fullness to your life.
Having a positive self-image will certainly make you more optimistic. Healthier brain cells firing on all cylinders make life more interesting.
In closing, I encourage each of you to quit drinking for 30 days. See if you feel better. Be aware of your moods, good and bad (there may be some doozies at the beginning if you are a heavy drinker).
Despite its legal status, it is important to be aware that alcohol is a drug and its use must be controlled. If you or anyone you know may be suffering from alcohol dependence, please have them seek help immediately. There are online options to take voluntary and involuntary courses on alcohol rehabilitation.
Mike Miller is the Education Director at Online Alcohol Class, a website specializing on online alcohol awareness classes and minor in possession classes. You can visit his site at http://onlinealcoholclass.com
