5 Physical Benefits of Sobriety

Starting a journey towards sobriety might seem like stepping into the unknown. But – what if we told you that choosing sobriety and everything that comes with it brings many valuable physical benefits?

In this article, you’ll find detailed information on five of the most beneficial aspects of sobriety from a physical health perspective. We’ll also shed light on some extraordinary additional perks that sobriety offers – both from a lifestyle and mental health perspective.

5 Physical Benefits of Sobriety

Of course, sobriety brings with it numerous benefits – from enhanced skin health to improved absorption of nutrients. However, we’re focusing on detailing long-term advantages that stand out among the rest.

Liver Regeneration

The moment you quit drinking – your liver starts the process of regenerating. In fact, it’s the only organ we have that can do this.

When you stop consuming alcohol, you give your liver a much-needed break from processing the toxic substances found in alcoholic beverages. This break is what allows your liver cells to begin the healing process.

Interestingly, the liver can regenerate its cells even after significant damage – and multiple studies have shown that liver regeneration can start within just weeks of stopping alcohol consumption.

For those who do not already have severe liver damage, the regeneration process can lead to significant improvements in liver function. The liver’s ability to detoxify the blood, aid in digestion, and perform its over 500 vital functions can be restored. This regeneration can look like improved energy levels, better digestion, and a reduced risk of developing a serious liver disease – such as cirrhosis.

Enhanced Immune System

Living a sober life significantly benefits our immune systems.

Alcohol consumption, especially in excess, can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections. This is because alcohol disrupts immune pathways in many ways, which can impact the body’s ability to defend itself against infection, as well as slow down recovery time.

So, when a person is no longer drinking alcohol, you give your immune system a chance to recover and strengthen. This recovery can lead to fewer illnesses, faster healing times, and an improved response to vaccinations.

Ultimately, a healthy immune system is needed for overall well-being, protecting against both common illnesses and more serious health conditions. And, by choosing to stop drinking alcohol, you are directly contributing to a stronger, more responsive immune system.

Improved Heart Health

Sobriety can have a significant (positive!) impact on heart health.

Alcohol consumption is linked to a range of heart-related issues – which include conditions such as high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, and an increased risk of heart disease.

So, by quitting drinking for good, you can not only lower your blood pressure – but you can also reduce your heart disease risk, and improve your overall cardiovascular health. This is because abstaining from alcohol helps to normalise these heart functions and can decrease the likelihood of fat deposits forming in the arteries, which is what can happen before heart disease develops.

A sober lifestyle improves heart health and also leads to better circulation, more energy, more physical stamina, and a lower risk of stroke.

Reduced Cancer Risks

Alcohol is a known carcinogen. So, this means that its consumption, no matter whether excessive or not, is linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer. This includes (but is not limited to) cancer of the liver, breast, oesophagus, throat, mouth, larynx, and bowel. Binge drinking frequently also increases the risks of developing one of the seven cancers highlighted above.

By going sober, you significantly reduce your risk of these cancers. Sobriety stops the harmful effects of alcohol on the body, including the production of acetaldehyde, a toxic chemical that alcohol is converted into in the body, which can damage DNA and lead to cancer.

Additionally, reducing alcohol consumption can lead to lifestyle choices that further decrease cancer risk. For example, a healthier diet and increased physical activity.

Improved Digestion

Alcohol directly interferes with the stomach’s acid production, which can lead to inflammation of the stomach lining (gastritis) and disrupt the balance of the gut microbiome (the good bacteria that protects us from diseases helps us produce vitamins, and digest food!).

For those who engage in chronic and excessive alcohol use or have an alcohol addiction, the risk of developing serious gastrointestinal issues, such as ulcers and chronic pancreatitis, is much higher.

Sobriety allows your digestive system to heal, leading to improved digestion, better nutrient absorption, and just overall, much better gut health.

A healthier digestive system means less bloating, gas, and discomfort, as well as a more regular bowel movement pattern. Additionally, the gut microbiome (the good bacteria) can recover and thrive in the absence of alcohol, further enhancing digestion, which can even improve our mood and immune function.

Lifestyle and Mental Health Benefits of Sobriety

Apart from some incredible physical benefits that come when we achieve sobriety, there are also many non-physical advantages.

• Improved Mental Health: Sobriety can lead to significant improvements in mental health. Alcohol is actually a depressant, and misuse is often associated with making us feel anxious and increasing the chance of developing a mental health disorder. By going sober, individuals are likely to see an improvement in mood stability and a general increase in mental well-being.
• Enhanced Cognitive Functions: Alcohol can impair cognitive functions, which can impact our memory and concentration. Sobriety can lead to clearer thinking, improved memory, and better problem-solving abilities.
• Financial Benefits: The cost of purchasing alcohol can add up. Sobriety eliminates this expense, allowing for savings or more disposable income to spend on activities and interests that bring you joy.
• Increased Self-Esteem and Confidence: Sober curiosity is a growing movement, and for those with alcohol addiction, overcoming the challenges associated with dependence and maintaining sobriety can be incredibly empowering.
• Personal Growth: Sobriety often leads to a journey of self-discovery, as individuals re-evaluate their lives, goals, and values without the influence of alcohol. This can open up new interests, hobbies, and pathways for personal growth, leading to a more fulfilling and purposeful life.

Find Support Today

We hope you’ve found our article on the health benefits of sobriety informative. If you’ve recently tried to go sober and are finding it difficult or experiencing withdrawal symptoms, reach out to us today. We specialise in helping those who struggle with alcohol addiction to reach recovery. Call us today on 01475 303998 or fill out one of our enquiry forms at a time that suits you, and a member of our team will reach out at a time that’s convenient for you.

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John Gillen - Author - Last updated: February 2, 2024

John has travelled extensively around the world, culminating in 19 years’ experience looking at different models. He is the European pioneer of NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) treatment to Europe in 2010; and recently back from the USA bringing state of the art Virtual Reality Relapse Prevention and stress reduction therapy. His passion extends to other metabolic disturbances and neurodegenerative diseases. The journey continues. In recent times, John has travelled to Russia to study and research into a new therapy photobiomudulation or systemic laser therapy working with NAD+ scientists and the very best of the medical professionals in the UK and the USA, together with Nadcell, Bionad Hospitals own select Doctors, nurses, dieticians and therapists. Johns’ passion continues to endeavour to bring to the UK and Europe new developments with NAD+ Therapy in preventive and restorative medicine and Wellness. In 2017 John Gillen was made a visiting Professor at the John Naisbitt university in Belgrade Serbia.