Feel drained after you quit drinking? You’re not alone. Many suffer from this phenomenon known as “sobriety fatigue.” In our latest blog, we cover what it is, what causes it, and how to get through it. Don’t skip this one!
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 forum and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
You did it. You did the hard thing and decided to quit drinking alcohol. You’re looking forward to better health, better relationships, and a better quality of life. What an exciting step on a new path! But you might be wondering, “Why do I feel so tired now that I’ve quit?” If so, you’re not alone.
Many report feeling exhausted shortly after they quit drinking — a phenomenon known as “sobriety fatigue.” It can be discouraging, especially when you’re eager to blaze a new, alcohol-free trail, but it won’t last forever. In this post, we’ll explore why you feel tired, how long it may last, and how you can successfully navigate this phase of your journey.
Because alcohol takes such an extensive toll on our body, the body immediately goes into repair mode when we stop drinking. The liver starts to heal itself. The brain works to restore balance. The musculoskeletal system begins recovery too.
Amid this extensive recovery process, we might notice withdrawal symptoms:
And while it's not on the official list of withdrawal symptoms, many experience overwhelming fatigue when they quit drinking. Let’s explore why.
Does detoxing make you tired? The answer is yes. To understand why, we first have to understand how alcohol affects our body.
Alcohol notoriously alters our brain chemistry — it’s part of what makes it so addictive. When we drink regularly, our brain becomes accustomed to the rush of dopamine and serotonin alcohol provides and slowly stops making its own. When alcohol is no longer present, the brain has to scramble to restore balance. Of course, we don’t see all of this happening, but we feel it in the form of fatigue.
While alcohol might help us fall asleep, it disrupts our overall sleep quality. After quitting, the inverse happens. It may be difficult to fall asleep without a nightcap, but our sleep quality will improve as our body adjusts to the changes. During the transition, we might feel extra groggy throughout the day.
Alcohol is also notorious for interfering with nutrient absorption. Even those of us who consider ourselves “healthy eaters” could be nutrient-deficient thanks to alcohol. Even when alcohol is out of the picture, it could take our body time to catch up, and we may feel laggy until it does.
In addition to physical factors, the emotional turmoil of quitting can be exhausting. It may cause fights with loved ones. It may mean parting ways with friends. It may be a daily battle with our inner voice. All of these can deplete our mental energy.
The bottom line is that when we decide to quit drinking, it takes our body time to adjust and restore balance, which can leave us feeling tired. This is especially true for heavy or chronic drinkers. To add insult to injury, sobriety fatigue can cause a domino effect in our lives, but we’ll get into that in a bit.
The fatigue may seem unbearable as you drag through your daily life, but remember — it’s only a phase. The exact length of the phase varies from person to person. Some might feel better after a few weeks, while others have to endure it for several months. It largely depends on several factors:
There’s no way to know how long post-alcohol fatigue will last. The important thing is that it eventually passes and leads you to the healthy life you’ve been dreaming of and working toward. Keep this in mind if you’re struggling, and don’t forget to reach out for support if you need it!
Not all of us have the luxury of sleeping all day. We have busy lives, people who depend on us, jobs that expect us on time, and an endless range of other demands. Fatigue is never convenient. So what happens when we have to endure it for weeks or months?
Unfortunately, it can affect every aspect of our life:
It’s more important now than ever to find a way to navigate the challenges that come with post-alcohol fatigue so we don’t find ourselves backsliding into old habits.
Fortunately, there are several things we can do to successfully manage sobriety fatigue:
These tips will help see you through the dreary days of sobriety fatigue and come out with another victory on top of quitting alcohol.
It can be discouraging to feel tired after quitting drinking, but it’s a normal part of the recovery process. Your body is working hard to restore balance, but it takes time and energy. You can help the process by taking care of yourself, finding a support group, and imagining your alcohol-free life beyond sobriety fatigue. Reframe is here to cheer you on and support you every step of the way. You got this!
You did it. You did the hard thing and decided to quit drinking alcohol. You’re looking forward to better health, better relationships, and a better quality of life. What an exciting step on a new path! But you might be wondering, “Why do I feel so tired now that I’ve quit?” If so, you’re not alone.
Many report feeling exhausted shortly after they quit drinking — a phenomenon known as “sobriety fatigue.” It can be discouraging, especially when you’re eager to blaze a new, alcohol-free trail, but it won’t last forever. In this post, we’ll explore why you feel tired, how long it may last, and how you can successfully navigate this phase of your journey.
Because alcohol takes such an extensive toll on our body, the body immediately goes into repair mode when we stop drinking. The liver starts to heal itself. The brain works to restore balance. The musculoskeletal system begins recovery too.
Amid this extensive recovery process, we might notice withdrawal symptoms:
And while it's not on the official list of withdrawal symptoms, many experience overwhelming fatigue when they quit drinking. Let’s explore why.
Does detoxing make you tired? The answer is yes. To understand why, we first have to understand how alcohol affects our body.
Alcohol notoriously alters our brain chemistry — it’s part of what makes it so addictive. When we drink regularly, our brain becomes accustomed to the rush of dopamine and serotonin alcohol provides and slowly stops making its own. When alcohol is no longer present, the brain has to scramble to restore balance. Of course, we don’t see all of this happening, but we feel it in the form of fatigue.
While alcohol might help us fall asleep, it disrupts our overall sleep quality. After quitting, the inverse happens. It may be difficult to fall asleep without a nightcap, but our sleep quality will improve as our body adjusts to the changes. During the transition, we might feel extra groggy throughout the day.
Alcohol is also notorious for interfering with nutrient absorption. Even those of us who consider ourselves “healthy eaters” could be nutrient-deficient thanks to alcohol. Even when alcohol is out of the picture, it could take our body time to catch up, and we may feel laggy until it does.
In addition to physical factors, the emotional turmoil of quitting can be exhausting. It may cause fights with loved ones. It may mean parting ways with friends. It may be a daily battle with our inner voice. All of these can deplete our mental energy.
The bottom line is that when we decide to quit drinking, it takes our body time to adjust and restore balance, which can leave us feeling tired. This is especially true for heavy or chronic drinkers. To add insult to injury, sobriety fatigue can cause a domino effect in our lives, but we’ll get into that in a bit.
The fatigue may seem unbearable as you drag through your daily life, but remember — it’s only a phase. The exact length of the phase varies from person to person. Some might feel better after a few weeks, while others have to endure it for several months. It largely depends on several factors:
There’s no way to know how long post-alcohol fatigue will last. The important thing is that it eventually passes and leads you to the healthy life you’ve been dreaming of and working toward. Keep this in mind if you’re struggling, and don’t forget to reach out for support if you need it!
Not all of us have the luxury of sleeping all day. We have busy lives, people who depend on us, jobs that expect us on time, and an endless range of other demands. Fatigue is never convenient. So what happens when we have to endure it for weeks or months?
Unfortunately, it can affect every aspect of our life:
It’s more important now than ever to find a way to navigate the challenges that come with post-alcohol fatigue so we don’t find ourselves backsliding into old habits.
Fortunately, there are several things we can do to successfully manage sobriety fatigue:
These tips will help see you through the dreary days of sobriety fatigue and come out with another victory on top of quitting alcohol.
It can be discouraging to feel tired after quitting drinking, but it’s a normal part of the recovery process. Your body is working hard to restore balance, but it takes time and energy. You can help the process by taking care of yourself, finding a support group, and imagining your alcohol-free life beyond sobriety fatigue. Reframe is here to cheer you on and support you every step of the way. You got this!
When it’s hot out and we drink, alcohol affects us differently and increases our risk of dehydration, heat illnesses, and sunburn.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 forum and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Feeling hot, hot, hot? On those hot summer days, having an ice-cold drink by the lake or pool sounds like the perfect way to spend our afternoon. As tempting as it may be to make that drink an ice-cold beer or hard seltzer, alcohol is really not the best choice to beat the summer heat. In fact, it can make things worse.
Read on to learn about the science behind how alcohol impacts us differently in the summer heat. We’ll go through the dangers of drinking on a hot summer day and talk about ways we can make those days safer and enjoyable!
Quite simply, yes! The heat can change the way our body responds to alcohol. Our body is a big fan of stability — it wants to stay in homeostasis as long as possible and will fight anything that tries to throw it off. When it’s trying to fight off heat and alcohol at once, it can get overwhelmed.
Let’s look at some of the ways alcohol and heat work together to attack our body.
We know alcohol works differently on us when it’s hot out, but does the heat do things to alcohol? Whether we forgot our alcohol in our hot car or on the porch, we still want to know if it is safe to drink.
Luckily, the answer is pretty straightforward: leaving alcohol in heat and direct sunlight can degrade it, but it’s still safe to drink. High heat can evaporate alcohol and impact the flavor and quality of beverages like wine or beer, producing a skunky flavor. It won't be pleasant, but it’s safe to drink (at least, it’s no less safe than normal alcohol).
While it may not be particularly deadly to drink alcohol that’s been heated, that doesn’t mean it’s safe for us to drink alcohol when we are hot. Read on to learn some of the risks of drinking in the hot sun.
As we learned above, our bodies respond differently to alcohol when it is hot outside. As much as we may love to cool off with an ice-cold drink on a hot summer day, there are risks associated with this pleasure. Let’s review some of the risks of day drinking in the peak of summer.
Drinking and the heat can be a risky combination! The simple answer is to take it easy while drinking out in the sun. But let’s also consider some other ways we can stay safe while drinking alcohol in the dead of summer.
Although drinking in the heat can be dangerous, it is possible to have a good time while being careful. Below are some ways we can ensure we have a safe drinking experience when it’s hot outside.
By following these tips, you can ensure a fun, safe, and memorable summer. Enjoy it — it only comes once a year!
Alcohol affects us differently when we drink in the hot sun: we are more susceptible to sunburn, dehydration, and overheating. To have a safe summer, it’s best to drink in moderation, have a plan if we need a ride or help, wear plenty of sunscreen, and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Feeling hot, hot, hot? On those hot summer days, having an ice-cold drink by the lake or pool sounds like the perfect way to spend our afternoon. As tempting as it may be to make that drink an ice-cold beer or hard seltzer, alcohol is really not the best choice to beat the summer heat. In fact, it can make things worse.
Read on to learn about the science behind how alcohol impacts us differently in the summer heat. We’ll go through the dangers of drinking on a hot summer day and talk about ways we can make those days safer and enjoyable!
Quite simply, yes! The heat can change the way our body responds to alcohol. Our body is a big fan of stability — it wants to stay in homeostasis as long as possible and will fight anything that tries to throw it off. When it’s trying to fight off heat and alcohol at once, it can get overwhelmed.
Let’s look at some of the ways alcohol and heat work together to attack our body.
We know alcohol works differently on us when it’s hot out, but does the heat do things to alcohol? Whether we forgot our alcohol in our hot car or on the porch, we still want to know if it is safe to drink.
Luckily, the answer is pretty straightforward: leaving alcohol in heat and direct sunlight can degrade it, but it’s still safe to drink. High heat can evaporate alcohol and impact the flavor and quality of beverages like wine or beer, producing a skunky flavor. It won't be pleasant, but it’s safe to drink (at least, it’s no less safe than normal alcohol).
While it may not be particularly deadly to drink alcohol that’s been heated, that doesn’t mean it’s safe for us to drink alcohol when we are hot. Read on to learn some of the risks of drinking in the hot sun.
As we learned above, our bodies respond differently to alcohol when it is hot outside. As much as we may love to cool off with an ice-cold drink on a hot summer day, there are risks associated with this pleasure. Let’s review some of the risks of day drinking in the peak of summer.
Drinking and the heat can be a risky combination! The simple answer is to take it easy while drinking out in the sun. But let’s also consider some other ways we can stay safe while drinking alcohol in the dead of summer.
Although drinking in the heat can be dangerous, it is possible to have a good time while being careful. Below are some ways we can ensure we have a safe drinking experience when it’s hot outside.
By following these tips, you can ensure a fun, safe, and memorable summer. Enjoy it — it only comes once a year!
Alcohol affects us differently when we drink in the hot sun: we are more susceptible to sunburn, dehydration, and overheating. To have a safe summer, it’s best to drink in moderation, have a plan if we need a ride or help, wear plenty of sunscreen, and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Curious what the “kindling effect” in alcohol withdrawal is all about? Check out our latest blog to learn more and get tips on how to stay safe.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app today!
There’s an age-old metaphor of addiction as the seemingly self-destructive flight of a moth toward a flame. Singer-songwriter Aimee Mann captures it vividly in her song “The Moth”:
“The Moth don't care when he sees The Flame.
He might get burned, but he's in the game.
And once he's in, he can't go back,
He'll beat his wings 'til he burns them black …”
However, there’s another lesser-known metaphor related to fire and alcohol misuse: “kindling,” a term that describes the tendency of seizures related to alcohol to get more frequent and intense with time. What is kindling, exactly? And how are kindling, alcohol and withdrawal connected? Let’s find out more about kindling, addiction, and how to stay safe!
Why does withdrawal happen in the first place? To understand that, we need to take a look at alcohol’s effects on the brain and body.
When we drink, alcohol quickly enters our bloodstream and affects pretty much every system in the body, including the brain. It causes blood vessels to dilate (a process known as vasodilation, which leads to a temporary feeling of warmth) and raises our heart rate. The liver gets busy eliminating alcohol from the body and puts the metabolism of other nutrients on hold, while the kidneys open up the waterworks and send us to the bathroom throughout the night.
As far as the brain is concerned, a few changes take place:
Over time, the brain and body get adjusted to the presence of alcohol. The brain comes to expect the “free” influx of dopamine and makes up for it by producing less of the feel-good neurotransmitters naturally, making activities that used to be pleasurable lose their spark. At the same time, the body accepts the presence of booze as the “new normal” and adjusts its workings accordingly. Eventually, dependence sets in: we are no longer simply using alcohol to get a certain effect, but need it to function at baseline levels (or as close to them as we can get).
One of the hallmarks of dependence is withdrawal — a set of physical and psychological symptoms that crop up soon after our last drink. Here are the symptoms and their causes in more detail:
At first glance, withdrawal symptoms might seem similar to those of a really bad hangover, which often comes with headaches, nausea, anxiety, and the shakes. However, that’s where the similarities end. A hangover is caused by the aftermath of booze in our system, specifically dehydration, inflammation, and toxin buildup related to alcohol metabolism. It tends to last 48 hours max, but withdrawal is a different beast.
The timeline of withdrawal varies based on many factors, such as how long we’ve been drinking or if we have other medical conditions. In general, acute withdrawal usually lasts a few days to a week and tends to be a lot more intense than a typical hangover. Moreover, according to the National Institutes of Health 2023 guidelines, there are two categories of serious withdrawal symptoms, with the “moderate” one including seizures and the “severe” category reserved for delirium tremens, or DTs.
Seizures and DTs are both medical emergencies. If you are experiencing these, contact emergency services immediately.
The sneaky thing about alcohol withdrawal is that it tends to get worse every time we go through it, which is where the idea of kindling comes in. We’ll explore why this happens in more detail, but before taking a closer look at how kindling functions in withdrawal, let’s find out what role it plays in the dynamics of seizures in general.
Back in the 1960s, researcher Graham V. Goddard noticed something curious about some lab rats, which made an important (albeit involuntary) contribution to medical science by revealing an interesting fact about seizures. When Goddard induced seizures in the amygdala region of the rats’ brains by administering electric shocks, he noticed that the seizure threshold seemed to get lower with repetition: each time, it took less and less stimulation to induce the same effect.
Goddard compared this situation to using kindling to light a fire. As anyone who has ever tried to get a barbecue pit (or living room fireplace) started knows, the hardest part is to get the fire going. After the initial flame has been lit, it’s a matter of adding kindling to the fire.
The findings were originally applied to the study of epilepsy. It seemed that prior seizures lowered the threshold for subsequent ones. Later, the same principle was applied to substance misuse — in particular to alcohol withdrawal, which is known to induce seizures especially in those who’ve been drinking frequently for a long time.
What is the link between kindling, addiction to alcohol, and withdrawal? In the context of alcohol use disorder (AUD), kindling refers to the progressive response of the body and brain to alcohol withdrawal, which gets more intense over time. While seizures are the main kindling symptom, there are several others to look out for:
The neurological changes that are responsible for withdrawal in general are also at play in the kindling effect, but get amplified as the brain becomes more sensitive to the sudden “jolt” created by shifting neurotransmitter levels.
Scientists point to two neurobiological mechanisms behind kindling. The first has to do with GABA neurotransmitter levels, which plummet when we stop drinking. The second relates to NDMA — a type of glutamate receptor affected by alcohol. Receptors for both neurotransmitters undergo sudden shifts when alcohol is no longer in the picture, contributing to abnormal brain activity that can induce seizures. Even after the receptors have begun to re-balance, the kindling effect has already established itself.
The kindling effect is bad news for a few reasons.
If you’re going through alcohol withdrawal and suspect that kindling might be at play, these tips can help you stay on track.
While all of this might sound a bit daunting, there’s certainly light at the end of the tunnel. In the end, it helps to see the challenges as part of the journey to a happier and healthier version of ourselves. As ancient philosopher Lao Tzu once said, “Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them; that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.”
Most importantly, let’s remember that although certain aspects of the alcohol journey (such as withdrawal) can be increasingly challenging, the reverse is also true. Positive changes in the brain have a type of “kindling” effect of their own: the more we explore life beyond booze and the more our brain chemistry restores to normal levels, the greater amounts of joy we tend to discover. In other words, positive change and the rewards that come with it tends to grow exponentially, if we let it. In the words of Joseph Cambpbell, “We must be willing to let go of the life we planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us.”
There’s an age-old metaphor of addiction as the seemingly self-destructive flight of a moth toward a flame. Singer-songwriter Aimee Mann captures it vividly in her song “The Moth”:
“The Moth don't care when he sees The Flame.
He might get burned, but he's in the game.
And once he's in, he can't go back,
He'll beat his wings 'til he burns them black …”
However, there’s another lesser-known metaphor related to fire and alcohol misuse: “kindling,” a term that describes the tendency of seizures related to alcohol to get more frequent and intense with time. What is kindling, exactly? And how are kindling, alcohol and withdrawal connected? Let’s find out more about kindling, addiction, and how to stay safe!
Why does withdrawal happen in the first place? To understand that, we need to take a look at alcohol’s effects on the brain and body.
When we drink, alcohol quickly enters our bloodstream and affects pretty much every system in the body, including the brain. It causes blood vessels to dilate (a process known as vasodilation, which leads to a temporary feeling of warmth) and raises our heart rate. The liver gets busy eliminating alcohol from the body and puts the metabolism of other nutrients on hold, while the kidneys open up the waterworks and send us to the bathroom throughout the night.
As far as the brain is concerned, a few changes take place:
Over time, the brain and body get adjusted to the presence of alcohol. The brain comes to expect the “free” influx of dopamine and makes up for it by producing less of the feel-good neurotransmitters naturally, making activities that used to be pleasurable lose their spark. At the same time, the body accepts the presence of booze as the “new normal” and adjusts its workings accordingly. Eventually, dependence sets in: we are no longer simply using alcohol to get a certain effect, but need it to function at baseline levels (or as close to them as we can get).
One of the hallmarks of dependence is withdrawal — a set of physical and psychological symptoms that crop up soon after our last drink. Here are the symptoms and their causes in more detail:
At first glance, withdrawal symptoms might seem similar to those of a really bad hangover, which often comes with headaches, nausea, anxiety, and the shakes. However, that’s where the similarities end. A hangover is caused by the aftermath of booze in our system, specifically dehydration, inflammation, and toxin buildup related to alcohol metabolism. It tends to last 48 hours max, but withdrawal is a different beast.
The timeline of withdrawal varies based on many factors, such as how long we’ve been drinking or if we have other medical conditions. In general, acute withdrawal usually lasts a few days to a week and tends to be a lot more intense than a typical hangover. Moreover, according to the National Institutes of Health 2023 guidelines, there are two categories of serious withdrawal symptoms, with the “moderate” one including seizures and the “severe” category reserved for delirium tremens, or DTs.
Seizures and DTs are both medical emergencies. If you are experiencing these, contact emergency services immediately.
The sneaky thing about alcohol withdrawal is that it tends to get worse every time we go through it, which is where the idea of kindling comes in. We’ll explore why this happens in more detail, but before taking a closer look at how kindling functions in withdrawal, let’s find out what role it plays in the dynamics of seizures in general.
Back in the 1960s, researcher Graham V. Goddard noticed something curious about some lab rats, which made an important (albeit involuntary) contribution to medical science by revealing an interesting fact about seizures. When Goddard induced seizures in the amygdala region of the rats’ brains by administering electric shocks, he noticed that the seizure threshold seemed to get lower with repetition: each time, it took less and less stimulation to induce the same effect.
Goddard compared this situation to using kindling to light a fire. As anyone who has ever tried to get a barbecue pit (or living room fireplace) started knows, the hardest part is to get the fire going. After the initial flame has been lit, it’s a matter of adding kindling to the fire.
The findings were originally applied to the study of epilepsy. It seemed that prior seizures lowered the threshold for subsequent ones. Later, the same principle was applied to substance misuse — in particular to alcohol withdrawal, which is known to induce seizures especially in those who’ve been drinking frequently for a long time.
What is the link between kindling, addiction to alcohol, and withdrawal? In the context of alcohol use disorder (AUD), kindling refers to the progressive response of the body and brain to alcohol withdrawal, which gets more intense over time. While seizures are the main kindling symptom, there are several others to look out for:
The neurological changes that are responsible for withdrawal in general are also at play in the kindling effect, but get amplified as the brain becomes more sensitive to the sudden “jolt” created by shifting neurotransmitter levels.
Scientists point to two neurobiological mechanisms behind kindling. The first has to do with GABA neurotransmitter levels, which plummet when we stop drinking. The second relates to NDMA — a type of glutamate receptor affected by alcohol. Receptors for both neurotransmitters undergo sudden shifts when alcohol is no longer in the picture, contributing to abnormal brain activity that can induce seizures. Even after the receptors have begun to re-balance, the kindling effect has already established itself.
The kindling effect is bad news for a few reasons.
If you’re going through alcohol withdrawal and suspect that kindling might be at play, these tips can help you stay on track.
While all of this might sound a bit daunting, there’s certainly light at the end of the tunnel. In the end, it helps to see the challenges as part of the journey to a happier and healthier version of ourselves. As ancient philosopher Lao Tzu once said, “Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them; that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.”
Most importantly, let’s remember that although certain aspects of the alcohol journey (such as withdrawal) can be increasingly challenging, the reverse is also true. Positive changes in the brain have a type of “kindling” effect of their own: the more we explore life beyond booze and the more our brain chemistry restores to normal levels, the greater amounts of joy we tend to discover. In other words, positive change and the rewards that come with it tends to grow exponentially, if we let it. In the words of Joseph Cambpbell, “We must be willing to let go of the life we planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us.”
Alcohol flush patches claim to aid with unpleasant symptoms that come with flushing. Check out our latest blog for more info.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Pain relief patches help reduce aches, and nicotine patches can help us quit smoking. But what about alcohol flush patches? While they claim to be the latest and greatest solution for alcohol intolerance, we’ve learned to take a second look at viral products on TikTok Shop.
Let’s examine the science behind the patch and determine if we want to add it to our carts or not.
Alcohol flush reactions are a result of intolerance to alcohol. Different from an alcohol allergy, alcohol intolerance is a genetic mutation. This deficiency in the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase (ALDH) makes it difficult for our body to metabolize alcohol efficiently. This allows the toxin in alcohol, acetaldehyde (ACH), to linger in our body, causing the symptoms we know as alcohol flush.
Marked by common symptoms and known for its prevalence in those of us of Asian descent, alcohol flush is also known as “Asian glow” or “Asian flush.” The hallmark symptom of alcohol flush is a red face, but it is often accompanied by others:
Due to the severe unpleasantness of alcohol flush reactions, we continue to look for solutions to help get rid of it. We may have heard of Pepcid or curated alcohol flush pills, but one of the newer proposed remedies is an alcohol flush patch.
Alcohol flush patches are small transdermal patches that claim to alleviate the symptoms of alcohol flush reactions. They go by many other labels and nicknames:
The patches vary in size, color, and ingredients, but they all aim to reduce the unpleasant symptoms of drinking.
Each alcohol flush patch contains a specific combination of supplements. When placed on our skin, the supplements get absorbed into our bloodstream through our skin. Unlike pills, patches allow the medications to bypass the digestive system, get absorbed more slowly through our skin, and last longer. Due to their slow release, alcohol flush patches are meant to be placed on the body before drinking.
Alcohol flush patches typically contain a combination of ingredients that aim to reduce experiences of alcohol flush reactions:
When we wear the patch while drinking, its curated combination of vitamins and antioxidants is drawn in through the pores in our skin — aiding our body’s absorption and metabolization of alcohol.
Alcohol patch ingredients vary based on different drinking experiences and alcohol flush reactions.
Alcohol patches for hangovers aim to prevent an unpleasant aftermath or reduce the severity of hangover symptoms. Several brands offer alcohol patches for hangovers:
While hangover patches are aimed at reducing more general symptoms of drinking, alcohol flush patches target more specific experiences of alcohol intolerance.
Alcohol flush patches are meant to reduce common symptoms of alcohol intolerance by helping our body process alcohol. They target specific flush symptoms such as redness, inflammation, and GI distress.
While commonly dubbed Asian glow patches or Asian flush patches, alcohol flush patches can be for anyone who experiences symptoms of alcohol intolerance. The patches usually contain a combination of ingredients that focus on alcohol flush as well as more generic supplements that may help combat hangovers. While varying slightly in composition, several products claim to be a solution for alcohol flush:
No matter what they’re called or what’s in them, the question remains: Do they work?
There’s little research on whether or not alcohol flush patches are effective. By looking at their different components and mechanisms, however, we can better evaluate how they’ll work against symptoms of alcohol flush.
When we drink alcohol, our GI system and enzymes in our blood begin to break down ethanol into acetaldehyde immediately. This process triggers the release of histamine, prompting flushing symptoms to develop rapidly.
In the meantime, the glutathione in the patch slowly passes through our thick dermal layer to raise levels enough to help metabolize ACH, but it’s effects are negligible.
NAC could help, but it needs to be absorbed into our body, transported to our liver, and converted into cysteine, which is then used by our liver to produce glutathione.
So, while glutathione and NAC can help with the breakdown of ACH, the effects are minimal. It can be compared to being handed a raincoat in a typhoon — not completely unhelpful but not nearly enough to prevent serious consequences.
While not necessarily effective in preventing alcohol flush, glutathione and NAC have been studied for their mechanisms in preventing and reducing hangover symptoms. An in vivo study concluded that a mix of glutathione and cysteine alleviated hangover symptoms and reduced oxidative stress. Similarly, research focusing on alcohol metabolism found that accelerating the metabolism of ACH may help reduce the severity of hangovers. However, it’s important to note that not enough human studies have been conducted to conclude that glutathione and NAC specifically aid in hangovers.
Other components of alcohol flush patches include vitamins, antioxidants, and supplements. Scientific literature shows that dietary nutrients such as vitamins and minerals can aid in metabolization of alcohol. Similarly, a pilot study on milk thistle found promising results in reducing hangover symptoms. However, further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of other vitamins and supplements.
After evaluating the mechanisms of alcohol flush patches, we can see that they have minimal effects on preventing alcohol flush and hangovers. Yet, they’re still popular products, which begs the question: Are they safe?
Like most supplements, alcohol flush patches are not regulated by the FDA. Currently, no serious adverse effects have been reported. However, there’s little research done testing their safety. The components that make up the product are generally safe to use — suggesting that the patches are also safe. As with any supplement, some side effects may occur:
So, while they aren’t overly helpful, in most cases the patches aren’t harmful.
We’ve established that alcohol flush patches are neither particularly helpful nor harmful, so why do people still use them? Let’s go over some of the pros and cons before we make our final decision.
While they may not be the ultimate cure for hangovers, they do have some benefits:
The benefits of alcohol flush patches may explain why some people continue to use them despite their minimal effects on alcohol flush and hangovers.
Like most products, alcohol flush patches have pros and cons — leaving us to evaluate them for ourselves.
An alcohol flush reaction is an uncomfortable response to alcohol intolerance, but it serves as a warning sign of the dangers of alcohol. Alcohol flush products may help reduce some unwanted symptoms, but it remains true that the toxins in alcohol are just as damaging to our body. Some alternatives to help reduce or avoid alcohol flush include the following mindful drinking practices:
Mindful drinking practices not only help with the prevention of alcohol flush reactions but also with the development of a healthier relationship with alcohol.
In theory, alcohol flush patches sound like the answer to our alcohol flush woes. However, a more thorough review of alcohol flush patches uncovers their minimal effectiveness against alcohol flush reactions and hangovers. While not harmful, the patches aren’t significantly beneficial either. It may not hurt to try them, but other alternatives such as quitting or cutting back on alcohol are a better solution for alcohol flush. A patch is no match for alcohol flush!
Pain relief patches help reduce aches, and nicotine patches can help us quit smoking. But what about alcohol flush patches? While they claim to be the latest and greatest solution for alcohol intolerance, we’ve learned to take a second look at viral products on TikTok Shop.
Let’s examine the science behind the patch and determine if we want to add it to our carts or not.
Alcohol flush reactions are a result of intolerance to alcohol. Different from an alcohol allergy, alcohol intolerance is a genetic mutation. This deficiency in the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase (ALDH) makes it difficult for our body to metabolize alcohol efficiently. This allows the toxin in alcohol, acetaldehyde (ACH), to linger in our body, causing the symptoms we know as alcohol flush.
Marked by common symptoms and known for its prevalence in those of us of Asian descent, alcohol flush is also known as “Asian glow” or “Asian flush.” The hallmark symptom of alcohol flush is a red face, but it is often accompanied by others:
Due to the severe unpleasantness of alcohol flush reactions, we continue to look for solutions to help get rid of it. We may have heard of Pepcid or curated alcohol flush pills, but one of the newer proposed remedies is an alcohol flush patch.
Alcohol flush patches are small transdermal patches that claim to alleviate the symptoms of alcohol flush reactions. They go by many other labels and nicknames:
The patches vary in size, color, and ingredients, but they all aim to reduce the unpleasant symptoms of drinking.
Each alcohol flush patch contains a specific combination of supplements. When placed on our skin, the supplements get absorbed into our bloodstream through our skin. Unlike pills, patches allow the medications to bypass the digestive system, get absorbed more slowly through our skin, and last longer. Due to their slow release, alcohol flush patches are meant to be placed on the body before drinking.
Alcohol flush patches typically contain a combination of ingredients that aim to reduce experiences of alcohol flush reactions:
When we wear the patch while drinking, its curated combination of vitamins and antioxidants is drawn in through the pores in our skin — aiding our body’s absorption and metabolization of alcohol.
Alcohol patch ingredients vary based on different drinking experiences and alcohol flush reactions.
Alcohol patches for hangovers aim to prevent an unpleasant aftermath or reduce the severity of hangover symptoms. Several brands offer alcohol patches for hangovers:
While hangover patches are aimed at reducing more general symptoms of drinking, alcohol flush patches target more specific experiences of alcohol intolerance.
Alcohol flush patches are meant to reduce common symptoms of alcohol intolerance by helping our body process alcohol. They target specific flush symptoms such as redness, inflammation, and GI distress.
While commonly dubbed Asian glow patches or Asian flush patches, alcohol flush patches can be for anyone who experiences symptoms of alcohol intolerance. The patches usually contain a combination of ingredients that focus on alcohol flush as well as more generic supplements that may help combat hangovers. While varying slightly in composition, several products claim to be a solution for alcohol flush:
No matter what they’re called or what’s in them, the question remains: Do they work?
There’s little research on whether or not alcohol flush patches are effective. By looking at their different components and mechanisms, however, we can better evaluate how they’ll work against symptoms of alcohol flush.
When we drink alcohol, our GI system and enzymes in our blood begin to break down ethanol into acetaldehyde immediately. This process triggers the release of histamine, prompting flushing symptoms to develop rapidly.
In the meantime, the glutathione in the patch slowly passes through our thick dermal layer to raise levels enough to help metabolize ACH, but it’s effects are negligible.
NAC could help, but it needs to be absorbed into our body, transported to our liver, and converted into cysteine, which is then used by our liver to produce glutathione.
So, while glutathione and NAC can help with the breakdown of ACH, the effects are minimal. It can be compared to being handed a raincoat in a typhoon — not completely unhelpful but not nearly enough to prevent serious consequences.
While not necessarily effective in preventing alcohol flush, glutathione and NAC have been studied for their mechanisms in preventing and reducing hangover symptoms. An in vivo study concluded that a mix of glutathione and cysteine alleviated hangover symptoms and reduced oxidative stress. Similarly, research focusing on alcohol metabolism found that accelerating the metabolism of ACH may help reduce the severity of hangovers. However, it’s important to note that not enough human studies have been conducted to conclude that glutathione and NAC specifically aid in hangovers.
Other components of alcohol flush patches include vitamins, antioxidants, and supplements. Scientific literature shows that dietary nutrients such as vitamins and minerals can aid in metabolization of alcohol. Similarly, a pilot study on milk thistle found promising results in reducing hangover symptoms. However, further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of other vitamins and supplements.
After evaluating the mechanisms of alcohol flush patches, we can see that they have minimal effects on preventing alcohol flush and hangovers. Yet, they’re still popular products, which begs the question: Are they safe?
Like most supplements, alcohol flush patches are not regulated by the FDA. Currently, no serious adverse effects have been reported. However, there’s little research done testing their safety. The components that make up the product are generally safe to use — suggesting that the patches are also safe. As with any supplement, some side effects may occur:
So, while they aren’t overly helpful, in most cases the patches aren’t harmful.
We’ve established that alcohol flush patches are neither particularly helpful nor harmful, so why do people still use them? Let’s go over some of the pros and cons before we make our final decision.
While they may not be the ultimate cure for hangovers, they do have some benefits:
The benefits of alcohol flush patches may explain why some people continue to use them despite their minimal effects on alcohol flush and hangovers.
Like most products, alcohol flush patches have pros and cons — leaving us to evaluate them for ourselves.
An alcohol flush reaction is an uncomfortable response to alcohol intolerance, but it serves as a warning sign of the dangers of alcohol. Alcohol flush products may help reduce some unwanted symptoms, but it remains true that the toxins in alcohol are just as damaging to our body. Some alternatives to help reduce or avoid alcohol flush include the following mindful drinking practices:
Mindful drinking practices not only help with the prevention of alcohol flush reactions but also with the development of a healthier relationship with alcohol.
In theory, alcohol flush patches sound like the answer to our alcohol flush woes. However, a more thorough review of alcohol flush patches uncovers their minimal effectiveness against alcohol flush reactions and hangovers. While not harmful, the patches aren’t significantly beneficial either. It may not hurt to try them, but other alternatives such as quitting or cutting back on alcohol are a better solution for alcohol flush. A patch is no match for alcohol flush!
Alcohol and marijuana are both harmful substances, but is there one that's worse? Check out our latest blog for more info on how they stack up against each other.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Alcohol and marijuana are two of the most commonly used drugs. However, due to differences in societal acceptance, there seems to be a great debate over which one’s worse.
Although we may be looking for a clear-cut answer, the truth is, it’s a bit complicated. At face value, they’re both harmful substances — suggesting that a title for “worst” may not be the important answer we’re looking for. To help us come to a conclusion for ourselves, we’ll take a side-by-side look at the different facets of alcohol and marijuana.
As a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, alcohol impacts messaging in our brain and the rest of our body. The toxins cause immediate effects and can also have long-term impacts from prolonged exposure.
Alcohol is associated with “feeling drunk,” but it's actually a side effect of alcohol’s impact on the different systems in our body. The exact experience can vary from person to person and depending on the amount of alcohol consumed, but some symptoms of intoxication are common:
Short-term effects of alcohol can also be felt the day after — even a few days after — in what we know of as a hangover.
The long-term effects of alcohol also will vary from person to person. Prolonged or excessive exposure to the toxins in alcohol can cause many different problems:
Long-term health effects are the leading cause of alcohol-related mortalities. While the exact effects will vary from person to person, it’s clear that drinking alcohol opens the door to myriad lasting effects on our health.
Marijuana, also known as “weed,” refers to the different parts of the cannabis plant. The plant contains active compounds such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and more. Some of these active compounds are mind-altering and have short-term and long-term effects on our body.
The “high” feeling associated with marijuana is a result of the effects that the drug has on different systems in our body. The effects of marijuana vary more widely from person to person compared to those of alcohol:
Like the effects of alcohol, marijuana’s acute effects can linger in the days following its use. Hangover symptoms from weed frequently include brain fog, headache, and drowsiness.
The long-term health effects of marijuana are not as heavily researched as alcohol. While still being studied, marijuana has been associated with various long-term impacts:
We’ve established a long list of health effects of alcohol and marijuana, but what’s the verdict?
As we’ve looked more in depth at the health effects of alcohol and marijuana, we might find ourselves comparing the long list of impacts. At a quick glance, the extensive list of alcohol’s effects may have us wondering, “Is alcohol worse than weed even though weed is illegal in many places?”
Actually, alcohol and marijuana impact our cognitive abilities and motor function in similar ways. Although our individual experiences may vary, both substances can have dangerous effects.
Comparing long-term impacts, alcohol seems to be associated with significantly more risks. However, lack of research could be the reason for the discrepancy. Currently, alcohol is tied to greater health issues, but it’s too soon to come to the conclusion that alcohol is worse, as more information is needed. That said, let’s explore another facet of alcohol and marijuana — their misuse.
Alcohol and marijuana are both drugs that can cause dependence and lead to misuse. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), substance misuse refers to continued use of a substance despite impaired control, risky use, and substance-related problems. Diagnoses for alcohol use disorder (AUD) and cannabis use disorder (CUD) must meet certain criteria in the DSM-5, professional reference book on mental health and brain-related conditions. The criteria refer to the cognitive, behavioral, and physiological symptoms associated with the misuse of a substance.
The 2022 National Drug Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) reported:
While data show that alcohol misuse today is more prevalent than marijuana misuse, both are alarmingly common. Could social perception play a factor in these numbers?
Social acceptance of a substance can contribute to substance use, which can have effects aside from our health. Let’s explore the social impacts of alcohol and marijuana.
Alcohol is one of the most commonly used drugs according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA); that fact may be attributed in part to the high social acceptance of drinking. While high alcohol consumption may benefit individual companies, it has detrimental impacts on our economy. The CDC reports that excessive alcohol use cost the U.S. roughly $249 billion in 2010 due to healthcare expenses, decreased workplace productivity, motor vehicle crashes, and criminal justice expenses. In addition to the toll on our economy, alcohol production also causes negative environmental impacts. Individually, alcohol can cause great harm to our health, but by zooming out and looking at the population as a whole, we can get a clearer picture of the extensive social impacts of alcohol.
Like alcohol, marijuana is also highly accepted socially, which also makes it one of the most highly used illicit drugs. Marijuana is becoming legal in more areas, which may explain the growth in use and positive impacts on our economy. Although we may see some benefits economically due to tax revenue, investment opportunities, and job growth, research has shown that marijuana is associated with an increased risk of violence. Although more research is needed, current findings suggest marijuana use has negative impacts on public safety. Shifts in legality and public perception continue to occur, but presently, marijuana is still highly controlled through regulation and taxation.
While alcohol and marijuana are similar in many ways, we can also see their different impacts on our society as a whole. Let’s take a closer look at these differences by laying out the facts.
Different facets of weed and alcohol make it difficult to compare the two. Statistics comparing weed and alcohol are revealing.
Data help us compare alcohol and marijuana more tangibly, but it’s important to note that external factors such as how likely people are to report using each substance can influence the information and how we interpret it.
While it’s easy to compare the visible effects of alcohol and weed, there’s a lot more to consider when trying to determine which substance is more harmful. It’s helpful to keep in mind those factors that can influence the comparison of alcohol and weed:
Despite all the different factors that can influence whether alcohol or marijuana is considered more harmful, the bottom line is that they’re both harmful.
Working to improve our relationship with alcohol and other substances isn’t just for those of us who are diagnosed with substance use disorder. Early intervention is one of the most effective tools in preventing misuse. There are several practices we can implement to develop a better relationship with alcohol and other harmful substances:
While we may not have settled the debate as to whether alcohol or marijuana is worse, we’ve established that both are harmful — refocusing our attention on limiting the consumption of each.
We’ve explored just about every significant facet of the effects of alcohol and marijuana. Although it may not be the answer we’d hoped for, there is no definitive conclusion as to whether alcohol or marijuana is worse for our health. Current research and data suggest that greater harm is associated with alcohol consumption. However, external factors that influence these findings make it difficult to declare a verdict at this time. While we may not have a clear answer as to which substance is worse, we do know that both alcohol and marijuana have detrimental impacts on our health and well-being — suggesting that a winner for the worst may not be what’s important. The evidence tells us to limit harmful substances, both alcohol and marijuana.
Alcohol and marijuana are two of the most commonly used drugs. However, due to differences in societal acceptance, there seems to be a great debate over which one’s worse.
Although we may be looking for a clear-cut answer, the truth is, it’s a bit complicated. At face value, they’re both harmful substances — suggesting that a title for “worst” may not be the important answer we’re looking for. To help us come to a conclusion for ourselves, we’ll take a side-by-side look at the different facets of alcohol and marijuana.
As a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, alcohol impacts messaging in our brain and the rest of our body. The toxins cause immediate effects and can also have long-term impacts from prolonged exposure.
Alcohol is associated with “feeling drunk,” but it's actually a side effect of alcohol’s impact on the different systems in our body. The exact experience can vary from person to person and depending on the amount of alcohol consumed, but some symptoms of intoxication are common:
Short-term effects of alcohol can also be felt the day after — even a few days after — in what we know of as a hangover.
The long-term effects of alcohol also will vary from person to person. Prolonged or excessive exposure to the toxins in alcohol can cause many different problems:
Long-term health effects are the leading cause of alcohol-related mortalities. While the exact effects will vary from person to person, it’s clear that drinking alcohol opens the door to myriad lasting effects on our health.
Marijuana, also known as “weed,” refers to the different parts of the cannabis plant. The plant contains active compounds such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and more. Some of these active compounds are mind-altering and have short-term and long-term effects on our body.
The “high” feeling associated with marijuana is a result of the effects that the drug has on different systems in our body. The effects of marijuana vary more widely from person to person compared to those of alcohol:
Like the effects of alcohol, marijuana’s acute effects can linger in the days following its use. Hangover symptoms from weed frequently include brain fog, headache, and drowsiness.
The long-term health effects of marijuana are not as heavily researched as alcohol. While still being studied, marijuana has been associated with various long-term impacts:
We’ve established a long list of health effects of alcohol and marijuana, but what’s the verdict?
As we’ve looked more in depth at the health effects of alcohol and marijuana, we might find ourselves comparing the long list of impacts. At a quick glance, the extensive list of alcohol’s effects may have us wondering, “Is alcohol worse than weed even though weed is illegal in many places?”
Actually, alcohol and marijuana impact our cognitive abilities and motor function in similar ways. Although our individual experiences may vary, both substances can have dangerous effects.
Comparing long-term impacts, alcohol seems to be associated with significantly more risks. However, lack of research could be the reason for the discrepancy. Currently, alcohol is tied to greater health issues, but it’s too soon to come to the conclusion that alcohol is worse, as more information is needed. That said, let’s explore another facet of alcohol and marijuana — their misuse.
Alcohol and marijuana are both drugs that can cause dependence and lead to misuse. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), substance misuse refers to continued use of a substance despite impaired control, risky use, and substance-related problems. Diagnoses for alcohol use disorder (AUD) and cannabis use disorder (CUD) must meet certain criteria in the DSM-5, professional reference book on mental health and brain-related conditions. The criteria refer to the cognitive, behavioral, and physiological symptoms associated with the misuse of a substance.
The 2022 National Drug Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) reported:
While data show that alcohol misuse today is more prevalent than marijuana misuse, both are alarmingly common. Could social perception play a factor in these numbers?
Social acceptance of a substance can contribute to substance use, which can have effects aside from our health. Let’s explore the social impacts of alcohol and marijuana.
Alcohol is one of the most commonly used drugs according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA); that fact may be attributed in part to the high social acceptance of drinking. While high alcohol consumption may benefit individual companies, it has detrimental impacts on our economy. The CDC reports that excessive alcohol use cost the U.S. roughly $249 billion in 2010 due to healthcare expenses, decreased workplace productivity, motor vehicle crashes, and criminal justice expenses. In addition to the toll on our economy, alcohol production also causes negative environmental impacts. Individually, alcohol can cause great harm to our health, but by zooming out and looking at the population as a whole, we can get a clearer picture of the extensive social impacts of alcohol.
Like alcohol, marijuana is also highly accepted socially, which also makes it one of the most highly used illicit drugs. Marijuana is becoming legal in more areas, which may explain the growth in use and positive impacts on our economy. Although we may see some benefits economically due to tax revenue, investment opportunities, and job growth, research has shown that marijuana is associated with an increased risk of violence. Although more research is needed, current findings suggest marijuana use has negative impacts on public safety. Shifts in legality and public perception continue to occur, but presently, marijuana is still highly controlled through regulation and taxation.
While alcohol and marijuana are similar in many ways, we can also see their different impacts on our society as a whole. Let’s take a closer look at these differences by laying out the facts.
Different facets of weed and alcohol make it difficult to compare the two. Statistics comparing weed and alcohol are revealing.
Data help us compare alcohol and marijuana more tangibly, but it’s important to note that external factors such as how likely people are to report using each substance can influence the information and how we interpret it.
While it’s easy to compare the visible effects of alcohol and weed, there’s a lot more to consider when trying to determine which substance is more harmful. It’s helpful to keep in mind those factors that can influence the comparison of alcohol and weed:
Despite all the different factors that can influence whether alcohol or marijuana is considered more harmful, the bottom line is that they’re both harmful.
Working to improve our relationship with alcohol and other substances isn’t just for those of us who are diagnosed with substance use disorder. Early intervention is one of the most effective tools in preventing misuse. There are several practices we can implement to develop a better relationship with alcohol and other harmful substances:
While we may not have settled the debate as to whether alcohol or marijuana is worse, we’ve established that both are harmful — refocusing our attention on limiting the consumption of each.
We’ve explored just about every significant facet of the effects of alcohol and marijuana. Although it may not be the answer we’d hoped for, there is no definitive conclusion as to whether alcohol or marijuana is worse for our health. Current research and data suggest that greater harm is associated with alcohol consumption. However, external factors that influence these findings make it difficult to declare a verdict at this time. While we may not have a clear answer as to which substance is worse, we do know that both alcohol and marijuana have detrimental impacts on our health and well-being — suggesting that a winner for the worst may not be what’s important. The evidence tells us to limit harmful substances, both alcohol and marijuana.
Sipping on that cocktail might impact more than just your mood! Alcohol can interfere with how your body absorbs essential vitamins! Find out more in today’s blog.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
You’ve been taking B vitamins for weeks. Everyone tells you they’re supposed to give you more energy, but you’re still sluggish. “What’s the problem?” you wonder. “Did I get a bad batch?”
There are several reasons why your vitamins may not be giving you the desired results — one factor is alcohol. Among the many effects of alcohol, we don’t hear much about it interrupting vitamin absorption, but it does!
In this blog post, we will explore how our body absorbs vitamins and alcohol, and how the two interact.
Vitamins are organic compounds that our body needs to maintain basic functions. There are two main categories of vitamins:
Our body doesn’t produce most vitamins; we can produce vitamin D by being in the sun, and a small amount of vitamin K2 (essential for bone and heart health) is produced in our gut. All of the other vitamins must come from our diet or from supplements. Let’s dig into that next!
About 20% of the alcohol we drink is absorbed into our bloodstream through our stomach, and the other 80% is absorbed by our small intestines. Once the alcohol is in our bloodstream, it travels everywhere blood goes — spoiler alert, that’s our whole body!
However, some parts of the body use more blood than others. For instance, the brain and the liver are the most blood-guzzling organs. The liver is where almost every substance and food that enters our body is metabolized — including alcohol.
The liver breaks alcohol down into a toxic byproduct called acetaldehyde. After that, it’s broken down into acetate and expelled from the body in our urine and breath. The alcohol metabolism process is taxing on the liver. Because alcohol and acetaldehyde are toxins, the liver focuses on eliminating those from our body and sets other things to the side — including food.
Drinking alcohol, especially in large amounts, disrupts the absorption of vitamins B1 (thiamine), B9 (folate), B12, A, and C. One study looked closely at vitamin C and alcohol and found that 42% of people with alcohol use disorder have severe vitamin C deficiencies.
Alcohol specifically interferes with vitamin absorption and storage in the following ways:
Overall, chronic alcohol use can disrupt the absorption and metabolism of vitamins and lead to several vitamin deficiencies.
We learned that alcohol can prevent or disrupt vitamins from being absorbed. We may be getting plenty of vitamins in our diet, but that means very little if we can’t absorb them. Let’s take a look at common symptoms of alcohol malabsorption:
Symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the alcohol consumption. However, even moderate alcohol use can lead to moderate malabsorption.
After reading this list we may be wondering, does taking vitamins after drinking alcohol help counteract the negative effects of alcohol? The results are mixed. Some research found that supplements can help reduce liver damage while others show no difference. More studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of vitamin supplements, but there is one simple answer: quitting or cutting back on alcohol is the most effective way to prevent alcohol-related vitamin malabsorption.
There is good news! The simple act of reducing (or completely stopping) alcohol use allows the body to heal and restore its functions — including nutrient absorption.
You can use vitamins to your advantage as you try to heal from chronic alcohol use. For instance, B vitamins such as B1, B9, and B12 help you regain proper energy metabolism and nerve function, and boost your overall well-being. Vitamin C helps support your immune system and reduces oxidative stress levels caused by alcohol use. To get these vitamins, you can use supplements, but you can also maximize vitamin bioavailability by getting them from certain foods:
It's important to note that while supplements can help support recovery, they should not be used as a substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats is essential for overall health and recovery from alcohol use. Additionally, individuals recovering from alcohol use should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements to ensure they are safe and appropriate for their individual needs.
Alcohol takes a toll on our overall health, and its effects on our vitamin absorption are only the beginning. Quitting or cutting back on alcohol is an effective way to prioritize our well-being. Luckily, there are endless resources out there to help with this project. Consider trying the Reframe app, which puts a science-backed toolkit right in your pocket. Here’s to your health!
You’ve been taking B vitamins for weeks. Everyone tells you they’re supposed to give you more energy, but you’re still sluggish. “What’s the problem?” you wonder. “Did I get a bad batch?”
There are several reasons why your vitamins may not be giving you the desired results — one factor is alcohol. Among the many effects of alcohol, we don’t hear much about it interrupting vitamin absorption, but it does!
In this blog post, we will explore how our body absorbs vitamins and alcohol, and how the two interact.
Vitamins are organic compounds that our body needs to maintain basic functions. There are two main categories of vitamins:
Our body doesn’t produce most vitamins; we can produce vitamin D by being in the sun, and a small amount of vitamin K2 (essential for bone and heart health) is produced in our gut. All of the other vitamins must come from our diet or from supplements. Let’s dig into that next!
About 20% of the alcohol we drink is absorbed into our bloodstream through our stomach, and the other 80% is absorbed by our small intestines. Once the alcohol is in our bloodstream, it travels everywhere blood goes — spoiler alert, that’s our whole body!
However, some parts of the body use more blood than others. For instance, the brain and the liver are the most blood-guzzling organs. The liver is where almost every substance and food that enters our body is metabolized — including alcohol.
The liver breaks alcohol down into a toxic byproduct called acetaldehyde. After that, it’s broken down into acetate and expelled from the body in our urine and breath. The alcohol metabolism process is taxing on the liver. Because alcohol and acetaldehyde are toxins, the liver focuses on eliminating those from our body and sets other things to the side — including food.
Drinking alcohol, especially in large amounts, disrupts the absorption of vitamins B1 (thiamine), B9 (folate), B12, A, and C. One study looked closely at vitamin C and alcohol and found that 42% of people with alcohol use disorder have severe vitamin C deficiencies.
Alcohol specifically interferes with vitamin absorption and storage in the following ways:
Overall, chronic alcohol use can disrupt the absorption and metabolism of vitamins and lead to several vitamin deficiencies.
We learned that alcohol can prevent or disrupt vitamins from being absorbed. We may be getting plenty of vitamins in our diet, but that means very little if we can’t absorb them. Let’s take a look at common symptoms of alcohol malabsorption:
Symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the alcohol consumption. However, even moderate alcohol use can lead to moderate malabsorption.
After reading this list we may be wondering, does taking vitamins after drinking alcohol help counteract the negative effects of alcohol? The results are mixed. Some research found that supplements can help reduce liver damage while others show no difference. More studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of vitamin supplements, but there is one simple answer: quitting or cutting back on alcohol is the most effective way to prevent alcohol-related vitamin malabsorption.
There is good news! The simple act of reducing (or completely stopping) alcohol use allows the body to heal and restore its functions — including nutrient absorption.
You can use vitamins to your advantage as you try to heal from chronic alcohol use. For instance, B vitamins such as B1, B9, and B12 help you regain proper energy metabolism and nerve function, and boost your overall well-being. Vitamin C helps support your immune system and reduces oxidative stress levels caused by alcohol use. To get these vitamins, you can use supplements, but you can also maximize vitamin bioavailability by getting them from certain foods:
It's important to note that while supplements can help support recovery, they should not be used as a substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats is essential for overall health and recovery from alcohol use. Additionally, individuals recovering from alcohol use should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements to ensure they are safe and appropriate for their individual needs.
Alcohol takes a toll on our overall health, and its effects on our vitamin absorption are only the beginning. Quitting or cutting back on alcohol is an effective way to prioritize our well-being. Luckily, there are endless resources out there to help with this project. Consider trying the Reframe app, which puts a science-backed toolkit right in your pocket. Here’s to your health!
Birth defects from alcohol use during pregnancy are unfortunately common but preventable. Learn how and when they develop, and how to stay safe in our latest blog!
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Remember those “Miracle of Life” movies they showed in high school health class to explain the stages of human development? However much you rolled your eyes or slept through them at the time, the title isn’t an exaggeration — life is a miracle. It’s mind-boggling if you think about it: somehow, a tiny cell divides and grows into a complex cluster that continues to divide and differentiate, eventually becoming, well, you!
Another key fact those videos drilled into us from an early age is that pregnancy is a no-drinking zone. No matter what your next-door neighbor or great aunt said was true “back in the day,” there’s no wiggle room here. Alcohol-related birth defects are a sad reality of drinking during pregnancy. Let’s find out more about how they develop and how to prevent them!
According to the CDC, drinking during pregnancy isn’t safe. This simple statement is crucially important to understand. Alcohol can affect the fetus at any stage, including the time we don’t even know we’re pregnant yet — before that missed period, the home pregnancy test, and the 3-minute wait for the telltale line to appear (or not). (For an in-depth look, check out our blog “What Are the Risks of Drinking Alcohol While Pregnant?”)
So what’s the connection between pregnancy, alcohol, and birth defects? Let’s take an overall view of the stages of fetal development and see what role alcohol plays in each one. (Spoiler alert: while the exact effects and their severity may vary, the answer is the same — there is no known safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy at any developmental stage.)
All in all, at each stage, there’s potential harm that can cause developmental delays further down the line. This harm is dose-dependent, but both moderate drinking over time and single instances of binge drinking can cause damage.
How exactly does the alcohol (or any other substance for that matter) get from mom to baby during the fetal stage? It all has to do with the placenta — a unique organ that forms in the womb and sustains the fetus throughout pregnancy.
The placenta acts as a multipurpose house, food delivery system, oxygen-providing service, and waste-removal system all in one. It’s connected to the growing fetus by a tube-like umbilical cord, which later falls off leaving an ever-present reminder — the belly button.
In addition to nourishing the fetus, the placenta passes on some of the substances in the mother’s bloodstream, including alcohol. The placenta’s permeability can cause birth defects from alcohol.
Now, let’s look in more detail at the range of problems that can develop in the different stages of pregnancy.
Some of the main physical abnormalities that can happen as a result of drinking during pregnancy are grouped together as “alcohol-related birth defects,” or ARBD. Unlike other types of abnormalities related to alcohol use during pregnancy, they are mostly physical in nature and can occur at any point, although they are more likely to be more severe if they happen in the embryonic stage. Let’s examine how alcohol use might affect different organs.
Did you know that the fetal heart starts beating as early as three weeks after fertilization? That’s right, in less than a month the tiny group of cells that will form the basis of our heart muscle is already pumping away — and will continue to do so for the rest of our life.
Alcohol can disrupt the delicate process of fetal heart development and lead to congenital heart defects. Both involve the formation of a small hole between heart chambers known as a septal defect:
It’s important to note that while alcohol can cause these defects, these defects can also happen with no alcohol. Both septal defects are diagnosed through an echocardiogram, which takes a detailed picture of the heart and records its functions. To get a more detailed look, a doctor might perform a bubble study, which involves injecting tiny microbubbles into our veins and tracking them with an ultrasound device to pinpoint the hole’s location.
Luckily, both ASD and VSD are sometimes minor enough that they either heal by themselves or don’t cause too many problems. In other instances, however, they need surgical correction.
Kidneys start to develop early in the embryonic stage and are fully formed by the end of the first trimester. Drinking alcohol at any point during their development can lead to potential abnormalities:
Like heart abnormalities, problems with the kidneys are often treatable. Still, many might require surgery or other complex procedures.
Developing bones are not immune to alcohol’s effects, either. Problems can include limb and spine abnormalities:
While bone problems are often not life-threatening and treatments are available, they can certainly impact quality of life.
Finally, the sensory organs also can suffer as a result of exposure to alcohol:
Once again, these problems might not be life-threatening, but they can greatly impact a child’s life.
Aside from ARBD, other birth defects can develop as a result of alcohol exposure during pregnancy. Let’s take a look.
Unlike ARBD, ARND isn’t marked by physical disabilities. Instead, the damages happen largely behind the scenes in the brain and can show up later as cognitive and behavioral issues. Here’s the gist:
While ARND isn’t entirely treatable, it’s manageable with the right support. Early intervention is crucial — getting a diagnosis might be emotionally difficult, but at this point, it’s all about fixing what’s fixable. It’s important to get help as soon as possible!
Finally, there’s the most serious alcohol-related set of issues, known as fetal alcohol syndrome. A group of alcohol-related birth defects that include physical and mental problems, FASD is a spectrum of disorders ranging from mild to severe.
According to Birthdefects.org, symptoms include several physical abnormalities:
Like other alcohol-related birth defects, it’s entirely avoidable if we stay away from alcohol when we’re pregnant and, ideally, during the time when we think pregnancy is on the horizon. Unfortunately, it’s largely untreatable once it develops, although special educational services and psychological support can provide some help.
While alcohol-related birth defects are difficult to treat after they develop, the truth — both heartbreaking and encouraging — is that they’re highly preventable. Here’s what you can do:
With these tips, you and your baby will be off to a safe start.
In the end, pregnancy is a special, challenging, and exciting time, but adding alcohol to the mix can bring on a unique set of dangers and long-lasting effects. Let’s avoid alcohol-related birth defects by staying informed, avoiding alcohol, and taking care of our body and mind (and our baby’s!) during pregnancy and beyond!
Remember those “Miracle of Life” movies they showed in high school health class to explain the stages of human development? However much you rolled your eyes or slept through them at the time, the title isn’t an exaggeration — life is a miracle. It’s mind-boggling if you think about it: somehow, a tiny cell divides and grows into a complex cluster that continues to divide and differentiate, eventually becoming, well, you!
Another key fact those videos drilled into us from an early age is that pregnancy is a no-drinking zone. No matter what your next-door neighbor or great aunt said was true “back in the day,” there’s no wiggle room here. Alcohol-related birth defects are a sad reality of drinking during pregnancy. Let’s find out more about how they develop and how to prevent them!
According to the CDC, drinking during pregnancy isn’t safe. This simple statement is crucially important to understand. Alcohol can affect the fetus at any stage, including the time we don’t even know we’re pregnant yet — before that missed period, the home pregnancy test, and the 3-minute wait for the telltale line to appear (or not). (For an in-depth look, check out our blog “What Are the Risks of Drinking Alcohol While Pregnant?”)
So what’s the connection between pregnancy, alcohol, and birth defects? Let’s take an overall view of the stages of fetal development and see what role alcohol plays in each one. (Spoiler alert: while the exact effects and their severity may vary, the answer is the same — there is no known safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy at any developmental stage.)
All in all, at each stage, there’s potential harm that can cause developmental delays further down the line. This harm is dose-dependent, but both moderate drinking over time and single instances of binge drinking can cause damage.
How exactly does the alcohol (or any other substance for that matter) get from mom to baby during the fetal stage? It all has to do with the placenta — a unique organ that forms in the womb and sustains the fetus throughout pregnancy.
The placenta acts as a multipurpose house, food delivery system, oxygen-providing service, and waste-removal system all in one. It’s connected to the growing fetus by a tube-like umbilical cord, which later falls off leaving an ever-present reminder — the belly button.
In addition to nourishing the fetus, the placenta passes on some of the substances in the mother’s bloodstream, including alcohol. The placenta’s permeability can cause birth defects from alcohol.
Now, let’s look in more detail at the range of problems that can develop in the different stages of pregnancy.
Some of the main physical abnormalities that can happen as a result of drinking during pregnancy are grouped together as “alcohol-related birth defects,” or ARBD. Unlike other types of abnormalities related to alcohol use during pregnancy, they are mostly physical in nature and can occur at any point, although they are more likely to be more severe if they happen in the embryonic stage. Let’s examine how alcohol use might affect different organs.
Did you know that the fetal heart starts beating as early as three weeks after fertilization? That’s right, in less than a month the tiny group of cells that will form the basis of our heart muscle is already pumping away — and will continue to do so for the rest of our life.
Alcohol can disrupt the delicate process of fetal heart development and lead to congenital heart defects. Both involve the formation of a small hole between heart chambers known as a septal defect:
It’s important to note that while alcohol can cause these defects, these defects can also happen with no alcohol. Both septal defects are diagnosed through an echocardiogram, which takes a detailed picture of the heart and records its functions. To get a more detailed look, a doctor might perform a bubble study, which involves injecting tiny microbubbles into our veins and tracking them with an ultrasound device to pinpoint the hole’s location.
Luckily, both ASD and VSD are sometimes minor enough that they either heal by themselves or don’t cause too many problems. In other instances, however, they need surgical correction.
Kidneys start to develop early in the embryonic stage and are fully formed by the end of the first trimester. Drinking alcohol at any point during their development can lead to potential abnormalities:
Like heart abnormalities, problems with the kidneys are often treatable. Still, many might require surgery or other complex procedures.
Developing bones are not immune to alcohol’s effects, either. Problems can include limb and spine abnormalities:
While bone problems are often not life-threatening and treatments are available, they can certainly impact quality of life.
Finally, the sensory organs also can suffer as a result of exposure to alcohol:
Once again, these problems might not be life-threatening, but they can greatly impact a child’s life.
Aside from ARBD, other birth defects can develop as a result of alcohol exposure during pregnancy. Let’s take a look.
Unlike ARBD, ARND isn’t marked by physical disabilities. Instead, the damages happen largely behind the scenes in the brain and can show up later as cognitive and behavioral issues. Here’s the gist:
While ARND isn’t entirely treatable, it’s manageable with the right support. Early intervention is crucial — getting a diagnosis might be emotionally difficult, but at this point, it’s all about fixing what’s fixable. It’s important to get help as soon as possible!
Finally, there’s the most serious alcohol-related set of issues, known as fetal alcohol syndrome. A group of alcohol-related birth defects that include physical and mental problems, FASD is a spectrum of disorders ranging from mild to severe.
According to Birthdefects.org, symptoms include several physical abnormalities:
Like other alcohol-related birth defects, it’s entirely avoidable if we stay away from alcohol when we’re pregnant and, ideally, during the time when we think pregnancy is on the horizon. Unfortunately, it’s largely untreatable once it develops, although special educational services and psychological support can provide some help.
While alcohol-related birth defects are difficult to treat after they develop, the truth — both heartbreaking and encouraging — is that they’re highly preventable. Here’s what you can do:
With these tips, you and your baby will be off to a safe start.
In the end, pregnancy is a special, challenging, and exciting time, but adding alcohol to the mix can bring on a unique set of dangers and long-lasting effects. Let’s avoid alcohol-related birth defects by staying informed, avoiding alcohol, and taking care of our body and mind (and our baby’s!) during pregnancy and beyond!
Non-alcoholic wine is a great alternative for some of us. However, it’s not for everyone. Learn more about the pros and cons of non-alcoholic wine in our latest blog.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Have you ever heard that a glass of red wine could have health benefits? Well, research has concluded that the negative effects of alcohol far outweigh any benefits that wine may have. But could non-alcoholic wine be the answer?
Non-alcoholic wine is generally considered a healthier alternative as it removes the detrimental effects of alcohol from the equation. However, as with most things in life, balance is key. Excessive consumption of non-alcoholic wine can still have negative effects. Let’s uncork the details on what exactly non-alcoholic wine is and how it can impact our health.
Non-alcoholic wine is wine that goes through a process to have some or all of its alcohol removed. It starts out as alcoholic wine — going through the same fermentation process that gives it the same taste qualities. The alcohol is then removed using purification processes such as distillation and reverse osmosis.
These processes of removing the alcohol from wine is what makes non-alcoholic wine distinct from simply grape juice. Its appeal is that it has the same qualities as wine — without the alcohol.
Non-alcoholic wine is known by several names:
Although non-alcoholic wine goes through industrial processes to remove its alcohol, does all of it get removed?
Despite its name, non-alcoholic wine can contain traces of alcohol. According to the Federal Drug Administration (FDA), the beverage must be less than 0.5% alcohol by volume (ABV) to be labeled as non-alcoholic.
As a comparison, most alcoholic wine has around 12% alcohol, and standard beer has around 5% alcohol. Kombucha, a fermented tea, can contain up to 0.5% ABV. Some kombuchas can even go up to 1%–2% ABV (although they require a special label at that level).
Let’s examine how non-alcoholic wine and alcoholic wine compare with each other.
Non-alcoholic wine is distinct from grape juice or other flavored beverages due to its resemblance to wine. Let’s look at the two beverages side by side to see how they’re similar and different.
Dealcoholized wine is made the same way wine is made. Juice made from different parts of the grape is mixed with yeast, which initiates the fermentation process. Through this process, the sugars and starches are converted into alcohol — creating wine. Non-alcoholic wine goes through an additional process to remove the alcohol, changing the properties but preserving the taste.
Since alcoholic wine and non-alcoholic wine are made in the same way using the same ingredients, the appearance and taste remain almost identical. Aside from these external factors, alcoholic wine and non-alcoholic wine are different in many aspects.
The alcohol component in wine accounts for the differences between the way wine and non-alcoholic wine impact us. Some negative effects of alcohol include the following:
Since non-alcoholic wines don’t contain significant amounts of alcohol, they are not associated with the negative impacts of alcohol. However, they do contain the same sweeteners and additives as alcoholic wine, which present a variety of potential risks:
Moderate amounts of non-alcoholic wine may not have significant effects on our health, making it a safer alternative to alcohol. Since non-alcoholic wine is free from the specific harms that alcohol can cause, does this mean it’s healthy?
With the removal of alcohol, non-alcoholic wine may actually deliver some health benefit due to the presence of compounds called polyphenols. They are also present in alcoholic wine, but the negative effects of the alcohol outweigh any benefits. Polyphenols are produced during the fermentation process and are associated with these positive effects:
Choosing non-alcoholic wine over its alcoholic counterpart can be a companion in a variety of health goals:
We’ve acknowledged that non-alcoholic wine is a healthier alternative to alcoholic wine, but how does it compare to other non-alcoholic drinks?
All alcohol-free versions of alcoholic beverages, such as non-alcoholic wine and non-alcoholic beer, must meet the requirement of falling under 0.5% ABV to be labeled “zero-alcohol.” From there, they start to have differences.
Non-alcoholic wine and non-alcoholic beer, for example, are produced differently and have different effects on our health. Because beer is produced from cereal grain, it is usually high in carbohydrates. Although non-alcoholic beer may be lower in carbs than regular beer, it still contains more carbs than wine. On the plus side, NA beer has electrolytes you won’t find in non-alcoholic wine. It’s not a replacement for an electrolyte powder or sports drink, but it can do more for hydration than regular beer (which is actually dehydrating!).
For those of us looking for a lower-carb option, non-alcoholic wine may be a better choice. However, it's important to note that non-alcoholic wine is often higher in sugar. The nutritional value may vary depending on the type of non-alcoholic wine and non-alcoholic beer.
Ultimately, the benefits of going booze-free are the same regardless of which type of beverage you choose. Non-alcoholic drinks are always going to be better options than their alcoholic counterparts.
But is it okay to drink non-alcoholic beer every day, or is it okay to finish a bottle of non-alcoholic wine in one go? Let's take a closer look at some potential risks of non-alcoholic drinks — wine in particular.
Non-alcoholic wine is generally a much better option than alcohol as it doesn’t cause the same harmful effects. However, it can have some negative impacts and potential risks:
Along with the potential risks, the qualities of non-alcoholic wine can make it a poor option for some of us.
While non-alcoholic wine is a useful alternative for those of us who are looking to quit or cut back on alcohol, it’s not suitable for everyone. Three groups in particular are advised to avoid non-alcoholic wine:
Even for those of us who may not fall into these categories, being mindful of our consumption of non-alcoholic wine can help us live a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
An excess of anything can lead to potentially negative effects. For example, broccoli has many health benefits; however, if we eat too much, it can lead to bloating, gas, and stomach pain. Similarly, while non-alcoholic wine may be a healthier alternative than alcoholic wine, too much can be a bad choice. There are several strategies we can
implement to help us avoid excess consumption:
While these practices are helpful to avoid excess consumption of non-alcoholic wine, we can also apply them to more mindful alcohol consumption and balance in other areas of our life.
Non-alcoholic wine, among other zero-alcohol beverages, is a better alternative to alcohol, especially when we’re looking to quit or cut back. It’s everything that wine has to offer without the detrimental effects of alcohol. That being said, the minimal traces of alcohol in non-alcoholic wine make it a poor alternative for pregnant or breastfeeding women and underage drinkers. Non-alcoholic wine is a healthier option, but drinking too much of it can still have negative effects. Non-alcoholic wine is fine, as long as we don’t cross the line!
Have you ever heard that a glass of red wine could have health benefits? Well, research has concluded that the negative effects of alcohol far outweigh any benefits that wine may have. But could non-alcoholic wine be the answer?
Non-alcoholic wine is generally considered a healthier alternative as it removes the detrimental effects of alcohol from the equation. However, as with most things in life, balance is key. Excessive consumption of non-alcoholic wine can still have negative effects. Let’s uncork the details on what exactly non-alcoholic wine is and how it can impact our health.
Non-alcoholic wine is wine that goes through a process to have some or all of its alcohol removed. It starts out as alcoholic wine — going through the same fermentation process that gives it the same taste qualities. The alcohol is then removed using purification processes such as distillation and reverse osmosis.
These processes of removing the alcohol from wine is what makes non-alcoholic wine distinct from simply grape juice. Its appeal is that it has the same qualities as wine — without the alcohol.
Non-alcoholic wine is known by several names:
Although non-alcoholic wine goes through industrial processes to remove its alcohol, does all of it get removed?
Despite its name, non-alcoholic wine can contain traces of alcohol. According to the Federal Drug Administration (FDA), the beverage must be less than 0.5% alcohol by volume (ABV) to be labeled as non-alcoholic.
As a comparison, most alcoholic wine has around 12% alcohol, and standard beer has around 5% alcohol. Kombucha, a fermented tea, can contain up to 0.5% ABV. Some kombuchas can even go up to 1%–2% ABV (although they require a special label at that level).
Let’s examine how non-alcoholic wine and alcoholic wine compare with each other.
Non-alcoholic wine is distinct from grape juice or other flavored beverages due to its resemblance to wine. Let’s look at the two beverages side by side to see how they’re similar and different.
Dealcoholized wine is made the same way wine is made. Juice made from different parts of the grape is mixed with yeast, which initiates the fermentation process. Through this process, the sugars and starches are converted into alcohol — creating wine. Non-alcoholic wine goes through an additional process to remove the alcohol, changing the properties but preserving the taste.
Since alcoholic wine and non-alcoholic wine are made in the same way using the same ingredients, the appearance and taste remain almost identical. Aside from these external factors, alcoholic wine and non-alcoholic wine are different in many aspects.
The alcohol component in wine accounts for the differences between the way wine and non-alcoholic wine impact us. Some negative effects of alcohol include the following:
Since non-alcoholic wines don’t contain significant amounts of alcohol, they are not associated with the negative impacts of alcohol. However, they do contain the same sweeteners and additives as alcoholic wine, which present a variety of potential risks:
Moderate amounts of non-alcoholic wine may not have significant effects on our health, making it a safer alternative to alcohol. Since non-alcoholic wine is free from the specific harms that alcohol can cause, does this mean it’s healthy?
With the removal of alcohol, non-alcoholic wine may actually deliver some health benefit due to the presence of compounds called polyphenols. They are also present in alcoholic wine, but the negative effects of the alcohol outweigh any benefits. Polyphenols are produced during the fermentation process and are associated with these positive effects:
Choosing non-alcoholic wine over its alcoholic counterpart can be a companion in a variety of health goals:
We’ve acknowledged that non-alcoholic wine is a healthier alternative to alcoholic wine, but how does it compare to other non-alcoholic drinks?
All alcohol-free versions of alcoholic beverages, such as non-alcoholic wine and non-alcoholic beer, must meet the requirement of falling under 0.5% ABV to be labeled “zero-alcohol.” From there, they start to have differences.
Non-alcoholic wine and non-alcoholic beer, for example, are produced differently and have different effects on our health. Because beer is produced from cereal grain, it is usually high in carbohydrates. Although non-alcoholic beer may be lower in carbs than regular beer, it still contains more carbs than wine. On the plus side, NA beer has electrolytes you won’t find in non-alcoholic wine. It’s not a replacement for an electrolyte powder or sports drink, but it can do more for hydration than regular beer (which is actually dehydrating!).
For those of us looking for a lower-carb option, non-alcoholic wine may be a better choice. However, it's important to note that non-alcoholic wine is often higher in sugar. The nutritional value may vary depending on the type of non-alcoholic wine and non-alcoholic beer.
Ultimately, the benefits of going booze-free are the same regardless of which type of beverage you choose. Non-alcoholic drinks are always going to be better options than their alcoholic counterparts.
But is it okay to drink non-alcoholic beer every day, or is it okay to finish a bottle of non-alcoholic wine in one go? Let's take a closer look at some potential risks of non-alcoholic drinks — wine in particular.
Non-alcoholic wine is generally a much better option than alcohol as it doesn’t cause the same harmful effects. However, it can have some negative impacts and potential risks:
Along with the potential risks, the qualities of non-alcoholic wine can make it a poor option for some of us.
While non-alcoholic wine is a useful alternative for those of us who are looking to quit or cut back on alcohol, it’s not suitable for everyone. Three groups in particular are advised to avoid non-alcoholic wine:
Even for those of us who may not fall into these categories, being mindful of our consumption of non-alcoholic wine can help us live a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
An excess of anything can lead to potentially negative effects. For example, broccoli has many health benefits; however, if we eat too much, it can lead to bloating, gas, and stomach pain. Similarly, while non-alcoholic wine may be a healthier alternative than alcoholic wine, too much can be a bad choice. There are several strategies we can
implement to help us avoid excess consumption:
While these practices are helpful to avoid excess consumption of non-alcoholic wine, we can also apply them to more mindful alcohol consumption and balance in other areas of our life.
Non-alcoholic wine, among other zero-alcohol beverages, is a better alternative to alcohol, especially when we’re looking to quit or cut back. It’s everything that wine has to offer without the detrimental effects of alcohol. That being said, the minimal traces of alcohol in non-alcoholic wine make it a poor alternative for pregnant or breastfeeding women and underage drinkers. Non-alcoholic wine is a healthier option, but drinking too much of it can still have negative effects. Non-alcoholic wine is fine, as long as we don’t cross the line!
Worried that your tongue hurts after drinking alcohol? Check out our latest blog to learn the science behind why alcohol can cause tongue swelling and what to do about it.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Feeling a bit wobbly, nauseous, and warm are well-known symptoms of intoxication. You may have even heard of some external effects of alcohol, such as tooth stains, tooth decay, and a lingering smell on our breath. But one side effect you may not have heard as much is a sore or swollen tongue.
Whether you’ve experienced a swollen tongue from alcohol or other external factors, it’s helpful to understand why it happens and how we can prevent it. All the systems in our body work together for our overall functioning. However, alcohol’s effect on our immune system is the main culprit for a swollen tongue.
Our immune system protects us from harmful substances to keep us healthy, but alcohol can undermine it through two main methods:
Moreover, alcohol stimulates our immune response and causes inflammation, sapping its resources. The result? We’re more vulnerable to diseases and infections.
Alcohol is a complex toxic substance that affects our body in many ways. To prevent a sore or swollen tongue, it is first important to determine the cause. Alcohol causes tongue swelling in three different ways:
A common side effect of drinking is dehydration, caused by alcohol’s diuretic properties. Alcohol blocks the release of vasopressin which signals to our kidneys to hold onto water until it is ready to be eliminated. Since alcohol blocks this signal, liquids reach our bladder more quickly, which explains our extra trips to the bathroom.
Inflammation of our tongue is just one way that our body communicates that we are dehydrated. When we are not properly hydrated, our body starts to decrease saliva production to preserve body fluids. This can lead to a dry tongue that starts to feel sore or swollen. Dehydration can also aggravate our papillae, which are the tiny bumps that cover our tongue that allow us to feel and taste. Our papillae can become inflamed, allowing bacteria to build up on our tongue and cause a white coating known as “white tongue.”
Another common cause of inflammation is an intolerance or allergy to alcohol. The two are mistakenly interchanged as they can have similar symptoms, but they have notable differences.
Blood tests can help identify an intolerance or allergy to alcohol. If we suspect that our swollen tongue is caused by an allergy or intolerance, it’s best to consult with a physician for individual medical instruction.
Glossitis is a condition marked by inflammation of the tongue. It is directly correlated with chronic and excessive alcohol consumption. While the exact cause is unclear, it’s theorized that prolonged injury to the tongue, oral disease, infection, and nutritional deficiency increase the risk of developing glossitis. Alcohol not only causes tongue swelling by provoking an immune response, but its harmful effects on other systems in our body can add to the risk of developing glossitis. The toxins in alcohol damage the cells in our body and affect nutrient uptake, all of which are speculated to cause glossitis. While inflammation is the primary symptom, several other symptoms could indicate glossitis:
A swollen tongue, no matter the cause, is extremely unpleasant. Let’s explore different methods that can ease our symptoms.
There’s no magic pill that can get rid of our swollen or sore tongue, but several remedies can help alleviate uncomfortable symptoms:
These methods can help reduce symptoms after the fact. However, addressing the root cause helps us eliminate tongue swelling.
Inflammation is our body sending a sign that something is wrong. Although we can relieve the symptoms of a swollen tongue, preventing it from happening through the following three practices is the best course for our health.
We’ve determined that alcohol can cause tongue swelling, but what if our tongue is already swollen? Drinking with a swollen tongue is not recommended as it can cause further health complications. When we have a swollen tongue, alcohol can further aggravate symptoms and lead to conditions such as oral thrush, ulcers, leukoplakia, lichens planus, and geographic tongue.
Along with developing into other oral health conditions, severe inflammation of the tongue can impact our daily functioning. It can be difficult to speak properly and can even impact our breathing and swallowing. This can easily turn into a medical emergency if our swollen tongue blocks our airway or causes a choking hazard. According to an analysis completed in 2021, the chance of death by choking is higher than death by plane accident or accidental gun discharge in the United States. Oral health is not always talked about, but can greatly affect our overall well-being.
As little as it’s talked about, alcohol can undoubtedly cause a swollen tongue. Whether it’s from dehydration, allergy, or excessive drinking, the discomfort of a swollen tongue is no joke. At the end of the day, home remedies and over-the-counter medications can help alleviate symptoms, but cutting back or quitting alcohol is the best way to prevent it from happening at all. Cutting back is an oral health hack!
Feeling a bit wobbly, nauseous, and warm are well-known symptoms of intoxication. You may have even heard of some external effects of alcohol, such as tooth stains, tooth decay, and a lingering smell on our breath. But one side effect you may not have heard as much is a sore or swollen tongue.
Whether you’ve experienced a swollen tongue from alcohol or other external factors, it’s helpful to understand why it happens and how we can prevent it. All the systems in our body work together for our overall functioning. However, alcohol’s effect on our immune system is the main culprit for a swollen tongue.
Our immune system protects us from harmful substances to keep us healthy, but alcohol can undermine it through two main methods:
Moreover, alcohol stimulates our immune response and causes inflammation, sapping its resources. The result? We’re more vulnerable to diseases and infections.
Alcohol is a complex toxic substance that affects our body in many ways. To prevent a sore or swollen tongue, it is first important to determine the cause. Alcohol causes tongue swelling in three different ways:
A common side effect of drinking is dehydration, caused by alcohol’s diuretic properties. Alcohol blocks the release of vasopressin which signals to our kidneys to hold onto water until it is ready to be eliminated. Since alcohol blocks this signal, liquids reach our bladder more quickly, which explains our extra trips to the bathroom.
Inflammation of our tongue is just one way that our body communicates that we are dehydrated. When we are not properly hydrated, our body starts to decrease saliva production to preserve body fluids. This can lead to a dry tongue that starts to feel sore or swollen. Dehydration can also aggravate our papillae, which are the tiny bumps that cover our tongue that allow us to feel and taste. Our papillae can become inflamed, allowing bacteria to build up on our tongue and cause a white coating known as “white tongue.”
Another common cause of inflammation is an intolerance or allergy to alcohol. The two are mistakenly interchanged as they can have similar symptoms, but they have notable differences.
Blood tests can help identify an intolerance or allergy to alcohol. If we suspect that our swollen tongue is caused by an allergy or intolerance, it’s best to consult with a physician for individual medical instruction.
Glossitis is a condition marked by inflammation of the tongue. It is directly correlated with chronic and excessive alcohol consumption. While the exact cause is unclear, it’s theorized that prolonged injury to the tongue, oral disease, infection, and nutritional deficiency increase the risk of developing glossitis. Alcohol not only causes tongue swelling by provoking an immune response, but its harmful effects on other systems in our body can add to the risk of developing glossitis. The toxins in alcohol damage the cells in our body and affect nutrient uptake, all of which are speculated to cause glossitis. While inflammation is the primary symptom, several other symptoms could indicate glossitis:
A swollen tongue, no matter the cause, is extremely unpleasant. Let’s explore different methods that can ease our symptoms.
There’s no magic pill that can get rid of our swollen or sore tongue, but several remedies can help alleviate uncomfortable symptoms:
These methods can help reduce symptoms after the fact. However, addressing the root cause helps us eliminate tongue swelling.
Inflammation is our body sending a sign that something is wrong. Although we can relieve the symptoms of a swollen tongue, preventing it from happening through the following three practices is the best course for our health.
We’ve determined that alcohol can cause tongue swelling, but what if our tongue is already swollen? Drinking with a swollen tongue is not recommended as it can cause further health complications. When we have a swollen tongue, alcohol can further aggravate symptoms and lead to conditions such as oral thrush, ulcers, leukoplakia, lichens planus, and geographic tongue.
Along with developing into other oral health conditions, severe inflammation of the tongue can impact our daily functioning. It can be difficult to speak properly and can even impact our breathing and swallowing. This can easily turn into a medical emergency if our swollen tongue blocks our airway or causes a choking hazard. According to an analysis completed in 2021, the chance of death by choking is higher than death by plane accident or accidental gun discharge in the United States. Oral health is not always talked about, but can greatly affect our overall well-being.
As little as it’s talked about, alcohol can undoubtedly cause a swollen tongue. Whether it’s from dehydration, allergy, or excessive drinking, the discomfort of a swollen tongue is no joke. At the end of the day, home remedies and over-the-counter medications can help alleviate symptoms, but cutting back or quitting alcohol is the best way to prevent it from happening at all. Cutting back is an oral health hack!
