If you’re toying with the idea of cutting back on drinking, these health benefits might be enough to seal the deal.
Better mental health
Ever woken up after a night of drinking and been gripped by thoughts of what you may have said or done? It’s common, most of us have been there. Hangxiety’s not fun.
But when drinking becomes more regular, so too does anxiety. When anxiety lingers it can develop into a longer-term problem and increase the likelihood of depression.
Moderating or choosing alcohol free drinks can reduce this risk. In fact, one study suggests that women who give up alcohol can experience better mental health and reach levels of well-being almost on a par with those of lifelong abstainers. (2)
Better sleep
Sipping on a cool glass of alcohol-free wine is a great way to start winding down on a night. Whether it’s while watching Netflix, reading a book, or putting the kids to bed, it’s a drinking ritual that won’t cause any harm – particularly to your sleep.
Alcohol prevents you from getting quality shuteye which leaves your body and mind foggy. In contrast, alcohol free alternatives allow you to sleep like a baby and wake up feeling fresh. Like they say – everything’s better after a good night’s sleep.
Commitment to regular exercise
It’s fair to say that a big night of drinking is not conducive to early morning exercise. A workout session with a headache? No thanks.
Switch your wine for an alcohol-free alternative and things change. Waking up feeling fresh means you’re more likely commit to that workout. And the best part? You’ll be able to give it your all.
Without alcohol in your system you’ll be hydrated, energised, your reaction times will be faster and those feel-good hormones will be buzzing.
Maintain a healthy weight
Drinking can sabotage weight loss and healthy eating goals. Alcoholic drinks are loaded with empty calories, and the food choices that accompany drinking aren’t always nutritious.
One study found that people ate 11% more after an alcoholic drink compared to people who did not consume alcohol. They also ate nearly 25% more high-fat, savoury foods. (2)
Low in calories and sugar, alcohol free drinks are the perfect alternative to help you stay on track with your health and wellbeing goals. Maintaining a healthy weight prevents health issues including heart disease, high blood pressure and some cancers.
Improved intimacy
Let’s face it there’s not much to enjoy about drunk sex. Lots of fumbling, lack of intimacy and half the time it’s forgotten before it’s begun. Remove alcohol and it’s a different story.
Being in the moment with your partner results in a more meaningful connection. And without alcohol lowering your testosterone, it’s more likely to be orgasmic too.
But that’s not the only reason you should be screaming YES. Other wellbeing benefits of good sex include better mood, improved heart health, less stress and lower blood pressure.
Irene Falcone is the founder of Sans Drinks, Australia’s number 1 non-alcoholic bottle shop.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sansdrinksau
Bio: Irene Falcone is on a mission to change the way Australian's drink. Founder of Sans Drinks, Australia's first physical alc-free bottle shop, and online superstore. Irene is a multi-award-winning entrepreneur described by Channel 7 as "the biggest disrupter of the liquor industry since prohibition." With a unique understanding of the alcohol-free drinks market, including robust customer data insights into drinking trends and a detailed knowledge of over 500 products, Irene is passionate about making alcohol-free drinks fun, sexy and part of everyday mindful drinking.