A glass of beer for lunch and a glass of wine for dinner. According to statistics, it's not just Germans who drinklike alcoholic drinks. 70% of Americans also enjoy a drink after the end of the work day. According to the WHO, over 3 million people worldwide die from alcohol poisoning every year. But what happens if you decide to abstain from alcohol?
Abstaining from alcohol has these positive effects
1. Healthy sleep
According to Jessica Hoffman, counselor at Hazelden Betty Ford, drinking alcohol can cause sleep problems. In particular, the REM sleep phase (the so-called dream phase) is significantly shortened by alcohol consumption. Humans need around eight hours of sleep every day, of which at least 1.5 hours are in the REM sleep phase. During this time the body recovers optimally. So if you avoid alcohol, you can extend your REM phase and wake up rested and refreshed.
2. Reduces the risk of cancer
Alcohol consumption is considered a risk factor and can promote certain cancers. It is said to be responsible for 6% of all cancer deaths in the USA. Avoiding alcohol reduces the risk of thyroid and liver cancer, explains Robin Barnett, author of the book “Addict in the House.”
3. Strengthens the immune system
Alcohol consumption overwhelms the immune system and our defenses cannot mount an immune response to viruses and bacteria quickly enough. Avoiding alcohol allows your immune system to recover.
4. Lose weight
If you avoid alcohol, you consume between 50 and 150 calories less every day and can lose 3 to 5 kilograms in a year. This is indicated by the results of a study carried out inFachjournal BMC Public Healthwere published. In addition, regular alcohol consumption can lead to food cravings because it stimulates the AGRP neurons in the brain, which control the feeling of hunger. Those who don't drink alcohol are significantly less likely to suffer from food cravings.
5. Reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease
Alcoholic beverages can cause high blood pressure and increase your heart rate. In addition, many alcoholic drinks contain far too much sugar. Avoiding alcohol helps you eat healthily and prevent cardiovascular diseases. It is therefore an important part of therapy, especially for patients with high blood pressure.
