The Benefits of Sober October: What Happens to Your Body When You Quit Drinking

Blood pressure rises and energy levels plummet as soon as you finish your last drink, according to health experts. This information comes as millions of Americans participate in the annual Sober October trend, where they give up alcohol for a month to improve their health. Quitting alcohol has immediate benefits for the body, with effects seen as early as one hour after quitting. Within minutes of consuming alcohol, blood vessels constrict, leading to a rise in blood pressure. Alcohol also affects brain activity and energy levels by suppressing the brain chemical glutamate. Additionally, alcohol is a diuretic, which means it blocks signals that tell the kidneys to hold water, resulting in more frequent urination. People who struggle with alcohol addiction may experience anxiety when they stop drinking. One hour after quitting, blood pressure starts to decrease, contributing to improved brain function and clearer thoughts. Sleep quality is impacted by alcohol, with even a small amount decreasing sleep quality by 24 percent. After 12 hours, alcohol has completely left the bloodstream, and dehydration starts to set in. Swapping alcoholic drinks for soda may not be healthier due to the high sugar content in many sodas. For those struggling with alcohol addiction, withdrawal symptoms may worsen, including tremors and seizures. Alcohol can also cause constipation and pain in the digestive system for several days. After two days, alcohol has completely cleared from the body, and bowel movements return to normal. Brain chemicals begin to level out after about 10 days, leading to improved mood and energy. After 14 days, the skin becomes more hydrated and plumper, leading to improvements in acne and overall appearance. After a month without alcohol, blood sugars stabilize, cholesterol levels decrease, weight loss occurs, and the risk of chronic diseases such as high blood pressure and diabetes dramatically drops. So, the benefits of quitting alcohol are not only immediate but also have long-term impacts on overall health and well-being.