Alcohol can disrupt electrolyte balance by depleting essential minerals. Check out our latest blog to learn about the consequences of electrolyte imbalance from alcohol.
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 hundreds 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!
Ever feel unusually drained or lightheaded after a night of drinking, no matter how much rest you had or water you chugged the next day? This reason? There could be more than dehydration at play: alcohol could be messing with our body’s natural electrolyte balance.
Electrolytes are essential for keeping our muscles moving, our heart beating, and our energy up. But when alcohol enters the picture, it can throw this balance off, leading to unpleasant and potentially dangerous symptoms. Let’s take a closer look at how alcohol affects our electrolyte balance to explain why our body can feel so out of sync after even a drink or two.
Electrolyte balance means having the proper levels of electrolytes in our body. Electrolytes are charged minerals that regulate different functions in our body including hydration, nerve signaling, muscle contractions, and pH levels (how acidic or basic something is). Together, the electrolytes in our body ensure that fluids move in and out of our cells properly, a critical function known as osmotic balance. Let’s get to know the main electrolytes in our body:
Our body maintains this electrolyte balance through different mechanisms such as the food and drinks we consume, hormonal regulation, and proper kidney function. Our dietary intake can supplement or deplete these electrolytes, throwing their balance off-kilter. Our kidneys are in charge of filtering excess electrolytes from our blood, getting rid of them through our urine. Lastly, our hormones regulate levels of certain electrolytes, so when our hormonal balance is thrown off, our electrolyte balance can also get thrown off.
These fluctuations can lead to various health issues (which we'll dive into in more detail later). For now, let’s take a closer look at the role alcohol plays in our electrolyte balance.
Alcohol depletes and throws off our body’s electrolytes in different ways. Here’s how:
As we’ve discovered, alcohol doesn’t just deplete electrolytes, it also disrupts the balance that leads to crucial bodily functions. Let’s get a clearer picture of the consequences.
Electrolyte imbalance leads to many negative symptoms on its own, but when combined with alcohol, things can get even worse. These are some potential consequences of electrolyte imbalance from alcohol consumption:
Electrolyte imbalance from alcohol and alcohol’s other effects on our health and well-being can lead to a range of worsened symptoms. So, can drinking electrolytes with alcohol be the solution?
Alcohol and electrolyte supplements such as electrolyte powders or even natural sources like coconut water don’t negatively interact with alcohol and can be beneficial for reducing dehydration. Some electrolyte drinks can contain added sugar or caffeine, which is important to look out for as they can lead to negative effects when mixed with alcohol.
While electrolyte drinks can mitigate some dehydrating effects of alcohol, it’s not a cure-all. In fact, it can provide a false sense of security and indirectly promote increased alcohol consumption. So, although it’s not a bad idea to supplement with electrolytes before or after drinking, it’s also important to continue to be mindful of alcohol’s harmful effects and to quit or cut back to maintain electrolyte balance and boost overall health. Let’s look at other beneficial measures we can take.
Alcohol consumption and electrolyte imbalance are closely connected. Let’s learn how to better manage both:
Mindful drinking and hydration practices are essential for minimizing alcohol’s negative effects on our body, including electrolyte balance! Once these minerals return to their normal balance, we’ll likely notice a big difference in how we feel, both physically and mentally.
Managing electrolyte balance is critical to keeping our body functioning at its best, especially when alcohol is involved. Now that we understand how alcohol affects these vital minerals, we can take proactive steps to manage our hydration, supplement with electrolytes, and ultimately make more mindful drinking decisions. Finding balance, whether it's with our alcohol consumption or electrolyte levels, ensures both our mind and body stay healthy and energized.
Ever feel unusually drained or lightheaded after a night of drinking, no matter how much rest you had or water you chugged the next day? This reason? There could be more than dehydration at play: alcohol could be messing with our body’s natural electrolyte balance.
Electrolytes are essential for keeping our muscles moving, our heart beating, and our energy up. But when alcohol enters the picture, it can throw this balance off, leading to unpleasant and potentially dangerous symptoms. Let’s take a closer look at how alcohol affects our electrolyte balance to explain why our body can feel so out of sync after even a drink or two.
Electrolyte balance means having the proper levels of electrolytes in our body. Electrolytes are charged minerals that regulate different functions in our body including hydration, nerve signaling, muscle contractions, and pH levels (how acidic or basic something is). Together, the electrolytes in our body ensure that fluids move in and out of our cells properly, a critical function known as osmotic balance. Let’s get to know the main electrolytes in our body:
Our body maintains this electrolyte balance through different mechanisms such as the food and drinks we consume, hormonal regulation, and proper kidney function. Our dietary intake can supplement or deplete these electrolytes, throwing their balance off-kilter. Our kidneys are in charge of filtering excess electrolytes from our blood, getting rid of them through our urine. Lastly, our hormones regulate levels of certain electrolytes, so when our hormonal balance is thrown off, our electrolyte balance can also get thrown off.
These fluctuations can lead to various health issues (which we'll dive into in more detail later). For now, let’s take a closer look at the role alcohol plays in our electrolyte balance.
Alcohol depletes and throws off our body’s electrolytes in different ways. Here’s how:
As we’ve discovered, alcohol doesn’t just deplete electrolytes, it also disrupts the balance that leads to crucial bodily functions. Let’s get a clearer picture of the consequences.
Electrolyte imbalance leads to many negative symptoms on its own, but when combined with alcohol, things can get even worse. These are some potential consequences of electrolyte imbalance from alcohol consumption:
Electrolyte imbalance from alcohol and alcohol’s other effects on our health and well-being can lead to a range of worsened symptoms. So, can drinking electrolytes with alcohol be the solution?
Alcohol and electrolyte supplements such as electrolyte powders or even natural sources like coconut water don’t negatively interact with alcohol and can be beneficial for reducing dehydration. Some electrolyte drinks can contain added sugar or caffeine, which is important to look out for as they can lead to negative effects when mixed with alcohol.
While electrolyte drinks can mitigate some dehydrating effects of alcohol, it’s not a cure-all. In fact, it can provide a false sense of security and indirectly promote increased alcohol consumption. So, although it’s not a bad idea to supplement with electrolytes before or after drinking, it’s also important to continue to be mindful of alcohol’s harmful effects and to quit or cut back to maintain electrolyte balance and boost overall health. Let’s look at other beneficial measures we can take.
Alcohol consumption and electrolyte imbalance are closely connected. Let’s learn how to better manage both:
Mindful drinking and hydration practices are essential for minimizing alcohol’s negative effects on our body, including electrolyte balance! Once these minerals return to their normal balance, we’ll likely notice a big difference in how we feel, both physically and mentally.
Managing electrolyte balance is critical to keeping our body functioning at its best, especially when alcohol is involved. Now that we understand how alcohol affects these vital minerals, we can take proactive steps to manage our hydration, supplement with electrolytes, and ultimately make more mindful drinking decisions. Finding balance, whether it's with our alcohol consumption or electrolyte levels, ensures both our mind and body stay healthy and energized.
Alcohol can negatively impact our hygiene due to poor habits and negative health effects. Check out our latest blog to learn about alcohol’s effects on personal hygiene.
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 hundreds 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!
There’s a memorable scene from the TV show Friends when the group is at their go-to gathering spot, Central Perk, where Ross, the well-meaning but often awkward one in the bunch, is recalling an embarrassing time when he forgot to shower after a night of partying. As the gang laughs, it’s a funny reminder of how alcohol affects hygiene habits. But this isn’t just a sitcom gag — it’s a reality many of us may face.
Alcohol affects our personal hygiene in ways we might not even realize, from dehydration to changes in our hygiene habits. Let’s take a closer look at how alcohol might be affecting not just our health but our overall well-being.
Have you ever been too tired to wash your face thoroughly after a night out or forgot to put deodorant on while rushing out of the house the morning after? It happens to the best of us. Alcohol disrupts our daily routine in ways we might not even notice at first.
When we drink, alcohol slows down communication in our brain and our ability to make conscious decisions about our health and self-care can take a hit. Enter poor hygiene habits, such as haphazardly rushing through tasks, skipping showers, forgetting to brush our teeth, and even letting our space get disorganized (not directly hygiene, but a key contributing factor).
While it might not be a big deal if it happens once or twice, over time, these small slips can add up, causing more noticeable issues. Poor hygiene habits can lead to bad breath, body odor, skin problems, dull hair, and an overall tired appearance. On top of this, alcohol is associated with sleepless nights and negative mental health effects, such as anxiety and depression. If you’ve ever felt like you just want to rot in bed after a night out, that’s the alcohol to blame. Alcohol’s depressant effects make motivation and energy run low, making it even harder to keep up with proper hygiene practices. But it doesn’t end there — alcohol’s effects on our physical health can also impact hygiene.
When we think of alcohol’s physical effects, we might think of an unsettled stomach, wobbly steps, a pounding headache, or even some of the more commonly discussed health consequences such as high blood pressure, liver issues, or fatigue. But that’s not all — alcohol’s toll on our physical health can also be seen in more subtle ways through our hygiene and appearance. Let’s break it down:
Alcohol affects the appearance of our skin in different ways. Feeling parched after drinking? Alcohol’s dehydrating effects could be why. In terms of our skin, dehydration reduces moisture and elasticity, increasing the hallmark signs of premature aging: texture and fine lines. It also causes the overall look of dry, dull skin.
Drinking doesn’t only dry our skin out, it also irritates it by causing inflammation. When our skin is inflamed, our skin’s protective barrier doesn’t do its job as well, leaving us more vulnerable to irritants and infections. As a result, skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, and spider veins can be more common.
Lastly, alcohol depletes essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, which are vital for maintaining a healthy complexion. That inner glow that we’re constantly chasing? These vitamins are what gives us that healthy, glowing complexion. The mix of dehydration, inflammation, vitamin deficiency, and poor hygiene habits can be a recipe for skin problems.
At first we might not think about the connection between alcohol and body odor, but it’s there! Drinking doesn’t only affect how we look, but also how we smell. When our body breaks down alcohol, it produces a byproduct known as acetaldehyde. When acetaldehyde builds up, it can smell like rotten apples or vinegar (something not even a luxury fragrance can mask). That pungent smell can be released when we sweat, leaving us with a strong body odor that’s not exactly pleasant. And it’s not just acetaldehyde.
Alcohol throws off the natural bacterial balance on our skin, setting the stage for odor-causing bacteria to accumulate. Combined with dehydration, which can make sweat even more concentrated, these effects can lead to body odor that’s hard to ignore.
But, body odor from alcohol doesn’t just disappear after we sweat. Regular drinking leads to a buildup of toxins that creates a lingering body odor that can stay around for much longer than a day or two after we drink.
Drinking can lead to bad breath — and it’s not just because of the strong smell of alcohol. Alcohol may be a liquid, but it actually causes dry mouth by reducing saliva production! Without enough saliva, food and bacteria can linger in our mouth for longer than they should. Another effect of dry mouth? Higher acidity levels, which promote odor-causing bacteria to overgrow even more. This forms the ideal combination for bad breath.
Over time, dry mouth, acidity, and bacteria buildup can lead to persistent odor, making it difficult to maintain a fresh breath even if we brush regularly. But alcohol’s impact on oral hygiene goes beyond bad breath — it also increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, impacting our overall hygiene and appearance.
Remember how we discussed that alcohol interferes with nutrient absorption and affects our skin? Well, these nutrient deficiencies can also take a toll on the health and appearance of our hair. In fact, alcohol stays in our hair for much longer than we might think (up to six months!).
B vitamins and zinc, which can plummet after drinking, are important for hair growth and maintenance. Without proper nutrients and moisture, we’re left with dry, lifeless hair that can break easily.
To make matters worse, alcohol can also cause hair loss and thinning, thanks to its effects on our hormones. So, unfortunately it’s not just a bad hair day. Poor health from alcohol can cause noticeable damage to our hair, affecting its appearance and strength.
Alcohol is linked to different health issues that can also affect our overall appearance. For instance, regular and excessive drinking can contribute to unwanted weight gain. We might not even realize it, but alcohol is chock-full of empty calories. This weight gain often shows up around our midsection (think: beer belly), creating a bloated appearance, which can affect our self-confidence and energy levels.
Excessive drinking also damages our liver. This damage can lead to a condition known as jaundice, which is characterized by yellowing of the skin and the whites of our eyes. So while the main issue is liver damage, its effects are also visibly reflected in our overall appearance. But that’s not all!
Alcohol is linked to high blood pressure and a greater likelihood of heart disease, which can cause flushing (redness of the face) or broken blood vessels which are more visible. These physical effects of alcohol alter our appearance, almost like a warning sign that alcohol is taking a toll on our health and well-being.
When stacked with poor hygiene habits from alcohol, these health effects can leave lasting impressions on our appearance that can be hard to ignore. Over time, this not only affects our own self-confidence, but may also shape what others think of us as well.
Poor personal hygiene from alcohol consumption can have far-reaching effects that impact various aspects of our lives. Here are some ways it can show up:
In short, alcohol and personal hygiene are closely intertwined, and the consequences can get pretty serious. But don’t worry! To prioritize our health and well-being, let’s dive into some ways we can up our hygiene game.
Personal hygiene is essential for our health and confidence, especially when navigating the challenges that can arise from alcohol consumption. Here are some actionable steps we can take to maintain good hygiene:
These positive habits initiate a chain reaction, helping us maintain good personal hygiene and overall well-being. The best part? We’ll see the positive effects in all aspects of our life.
Now that we understand the relationship between alcohol and personal hygiene, we can see how something so seemingly nonchalant as having a drink can start a domino effect that results in poor hygiene and appearance. And the consequences extend beyond just how we look — they can affect our relationships, professional life, and mental health. When we start making healthier choices (starting with quitting or cutting back on alcohol) we not only improve our hygiene but also develop a greater sense of confidence and well-being. Quitting or cutting back can be a hygiene hack!
There’s a memorable scene from the TV show Friends when the group is at their go-to gathering spot, Central Perk, where Ross, the well-meaning but often awkward one in the bunch, is recalling an embarrassing time when he forgot to shower after a night of partying. As the gang laughs, it’s a funny reminder of how alcohol affects hygiene habits. But this isn’t just a sitcom gag — it’s a reality many of us may face.
Alcohol affects our personal hygiene in ways we might not even realize, from dehydration to changes in our hygiene habits. Let’s take a closer look at how alcohol might be affecting not just our health but our overall well-being.
Have you ever been too tired to wash your face thoroughly after a night out or forgot to put deodorant on while rushing out of the house the morning after? It happens to the best of us. Alcohol disrupts our daily routine in ways we might not even notice at first.
When we drink, alcohol slows down communication in our brain and our ability to make conscious decisions about our health and self-care can take a hit. Enter poor hygiene habits, such as haphazardly rushing through tasks, skipping showers, forgetting to brush our teeth, and even letting our space get disorganized (not directly hygiene, but a key contributing factor).
While it might not be a big deal if it happens once or twice, over time, these small slips can add up, causing more noticeable issues. Poor hygiene habits can lead to bad breath, body odor, skin problems, dull hair, and an overall tired appearance. On top of this, alcohol is associated with sleepless nights and negative mental health effects, such as anxiety and depression. If you’ve ever felt like you just want to rot in bed after a night out, that’s the alcohol to blame. Alcohol’s depressant effects make motivation and energy run low, making it even harder to keep up with proper hygiene practices. But it doesn’t end there — alcohol’s effects on our physical health can also impact hygiene.
When we think of alcohol’s physical effects, we might think of an unsettled stomach, wobbly steps, a pounding headache, or even some of the more commonly discussed health consequences such as high blood pressure, liver issues, or fatigue. But that’s not all — alcohol’s toll on our physical health can also be seen in more subtle ways through our hygiene and appearance. Let’s break it down:
Alcohol affects the appearance of our skin in different ways. Feeling parched after drinking? Alcohol’s dehydrating effects could be why. In terms of our skin, dehydration reduces moisture and elasticity, increasing the hallmark signs of premature aging: texture and fine lines. It also causes the overall look of dry, dull skin.
Drinking doesn’t only dry our skin out, it also irritates it by causing inflammation. When our skin is inflamed, our skin’s protective barrier doesn’t do its job as well, leaving us more vulnerable to irritants and infections. As a result, skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, and spider veins can be more common.
Lastly, alcohol depletes essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, which are vital for maintaining a healthy complexion. That inner glow that we’re constantly chasing? These vitamins are what gives us that healthy, glowing complexion. The mix of dehydration, inflammation, vitamin deficiency, and poor hygiene habits can be a recipe for skin problems.
At first we might not think about the connection between alcohol and body odor, but it’s there! Drinking doesn’t only affect how we look, but also how we smell. When our body breaks down alcohol, it produces a byproduct known as acetaldehyde. When acetaldehyde builds up, it can smell like rotten apples or vinegar (something not even a luxury fragrance can mask). That pungent smell can be released when we sweat, leaving us with a strong body odor that’s not exactly pleasant. And it’s not just acetaldehyde.
Alcohol throws off the natural bacterial balance on our skin, setting the stage for odor-causing bacteria to accumulate. Combined with dehydration, which can make sweat even more concentrated, these effects can lead to body odor that’s hard to ignore.
But, body odor from alcohol doesn’t just disappear after we sweat. Regular drinking leads to a buildup of toxins that creates a lingering body odor that can stay around for much longer than a day or two after we drink.
Drinking can lead to bad breath — and it’s not just because of the strong smell of alcohol. Alcohol may be a liquid, but it actually causes dry mouth by reducing saliva production! Without enough saliva, food and bacteria can linger in our mouth for longer than they should. Another effect of dry mouth? Higher acidity levels, which promote odor-causing bacteria to overgrow even more. This forms the ideal combination for bad breath.
Over time, dry mouth, acidity, and bacteria buildup can lead to persistent odor, making it difficult to maintain a fresh breath even if we brush regularly. But alcohol’s impact on oral hygiene goes beyond bad breath — it also increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, impacting our overall hygiene and appearance.
Remember how we discussed that alcohol interferes with nutrient absorption and affects our skin? Well, these nutrient deficiencies can also take a toll on the health and appearance of our hair. In fact, alcohol stays in our hair for much longer than we might think (up to six months!).
B vitamins and zinc, which can plummet after drinking, are important for hair growth and maintenance. Without proper nutrients and moisture, we’re left with dry, lifeless hair that can break easily.
To make matters worse, alcohol can also cause hair loss and thinning, thanks to its effects on our hormones. So, unfortunately it’s not just a bad hair day. Poor health from alcohol can cause noticeable damage to our hair, affecting its appearance and strength.
Alcohol is linked to different health issues that can also affect our overall appearance. For instance, regular and excessive drinking can contribute to unwanted weight gain. We might not even realize it, but alcohol is chock-full of empty calories. This weight gain often shows up around our midsection (think: beer belly), creating a bloated appearance, which can affect our self-confidence and energy levels.
Excessive drinking also damages our liver. This damage can lead to a condition known as jaundice, which is characterized by yellowing of the skin and the whites of our eyes. So while the main issue is liver damage, its effects are also visibly reflected in our overall appearance. But that’s not all!
Alcohol is linked to high blood pressure and a greater likelihood of heart disease, which can cause flushing (redness of the face) or broken blood vessels which are more visible. These physical effects of alcohol alter our appearance, almost like a warning sign that alcohol is taking a toll on our health and well-being.
When stacked with poor hygiene habits from alcohol, these health effects can leave lasting impressions on our appearance that can be hard to ignore. Over time, this not only affects our own self-confidence, but may also shape what others think of us as well.
Poor personal hygiene from alcohol consumption can have far-reaching effects that impact various aspects of our lives. Here are some ways it can show up:
In short, alcohol and personal hygiene are closely intertwined, and the consequences can get pretty serious. But don’t worry! To prioritize our health and well-being, let’s dive into some ways we can up our hygiene game.
Personal hygiene is essential for our health and confidence, especially when navigating the challenges that can arise from alcohol consumption. Here are some actionable steps we can take to maintain good hygiene:
These positive habits initiate a chain reaction, helping us maintain good personal hygiene and overall well-being. The best part? We’ll see the positive effects in all aspects of our life.
Now that we understand the relationship between alcohol and personal hygiene, we can see how something so seemingly nonchalant as having a drink can start a domino effect that results in poor hygiene and appearance. And the consequences extend beyond just how we look — they can affect our relationships, professional life, and mental health. When we start making healthier choices (starting with quitting or cutting back on alcohol) we not only improve our hygiene but also develop a greater sense of confidence and well-being. Quitting or cutting back can be a hygiene hack!
Social drinking is different from problem drinking, but they can become one and the same. Check out our latest blog to learn how we can quit or cut back regardless.
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 hundreds 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!
Navigating the world of alcohol can be tricky, especially when it comes to distinguishing between social drinking and problem drinking. For many of us, social drinking is seen as a way to unwind, celebrate, or connect with others. However, what starts as casual drinking can spiral into heavy drinking, binge drinking, or other unhealthy drinking habits that can disrupt our daily life and well-being.
Understanding the difference between social and problem drinking is important not only for our own health but also for supporting friends and loved ones. Let’s explore the key characteristics that separate social drinking and problem drinking.
Social drinking refers to drinking alcohol only in social contexts. One study refers to social drinking as drinking to celebrate special occasions and have a good time with others. It’s differentiated from personal-effect motives for drinking, which means drinking to escape, avoid, or cope with difficult emotions.
While a social drinker only drinks in social situations, the level of drinking is undefined. It can mean occasional drinking from having a drink once every three months when we’re celebrating a friend's birthday or a family member’s wedding to drinking every day with coworkers at happy hour after work.
This is where the line between social drinking and problem drinking can become blurred. Let’s define problem drinking so we can better differentiate between the two.
Problem drinking refers to drinking habits that interfere with our health, well-being, or daily life. It can encompass anything from missing work due to a hangover to alcohol use disorder (AUD). Let’s learn to identify it.
Noticing signs of problem drinking helps us address the issue so it doesn’t become worse. Here are some signs to look out for.
Now that we know what to look out for, let’s take a closer look at the risk factors of alcohol misuse or AUD, to be even more mindful of additional precautions we may need to take to maintain or develop a positive relationship with alcohol.
Let’s get a clearer picture of how alcohol misuse can take root and what influences trigger it.
As we can see, many factors contribute to problem drinking. This is why social drinking can so easily transition into problem drinking. Let’s better understand what this looks like.
Social drinking might start out as just drinking here and there to have a good time with friends or celebrate something special. But the truth is, it can turn into problem drinking quickly.
Alcohol has slithered its way into many social situations. So, what started out as drinking occasionally can turn into excessive drinking. Let’s say we had a glass of wine to celebrate an anniversary, two cocktails (which can easily contain 4-6 standard drinks) at a work happy hour, a couple of beers during the sports game, and several shots during a wedding on the weekend. Yes, we may have consumed alcohol only in social settings, but the amount we consumed can be an issue.
And it’s not just the number of social activities. Alcohol is addictive, and it interferes with our brain’s reward system. When we drink, alcohol promotes the release of dopamine and serotonin, two chemicals that give us a sense of pleasure and happiness. Our brain will then associate alcohol with pleasure (even though the aftereffects can be more than unpleasant) and keep us coming back from more, even after the social occasion is over. Before we know it, our social drinking habit can transition to problem drinking, and we might not even realize it at first.
But don’t panic! If you suspect your habits are becoming unhealthy, there are ways to turn them around. Let’s get into some ways we can develop a healthy relationship with alcohol no matter what type of drinker we are currently.
While we might be an occasional drinker or social drinker, the nature of alcohol makes it easy to transition to problem drinking. These strategies can help prevent that shift from happening.
Tip: Take this short, two-minute quiz to find out what type of drinker you are. It helps you understand more about your drinking habits, which is the first step to making positive changes!
And remember, no matter what type of drinker we are — social drinker, occasional drinker, or problem drinker — quitting or cutting back on alcohol can only benefit our health and well-being!
While social drinking typically involves more moderate consumption and occurs only in social situations, it can cross the line into problem drinking when it begins to interfere with our daily life and overall well-being. The prevalence of alcohol in social settings and the tendency of alcohol to cause physical and neurological dependence can cause social drinking to become problematic. Whether we’re currently social or problem drinkers, let’s protect our health and well-being by implementing mindful habits to quit or cut back!
Navigating the world of alcohol can be tricky, especially when it comes to distinguishing between social drinking and problem drinking. For many of us, social drinking is seen as a way to unwind, celebrate, or connect with others. However, what starts as casual drinking can spiral into heavy drinking, binge drinking, or other unhealthy drinking habits that can disrupt our daily life and well-being.
Understanding the difference between social and problem drinking is important not only for our own health but also for supporting friends and loved ones. Let’s explore the key characteristics that separate social drinking and problem drinking.
Social drinking refers to drinking alcohol only in social contexts. One study refers to social drinking as drinking to celebrate special occasions and have a good time with others. It’s differentiated from personal-effect motives for drinking, which means drinking to escape, avoid, or cope with difficult emotions.
While a social drinker only drinks in social situations, the level of drinking is undefined. It can mean occasional drinking from having a drink once every three months when we’re celebrating a friend's birthday or a family member’s wedding to drinking every day with coworkers at happy hour after work.
This is where the line between social drinking and problem drinking can become blurred. Let’s define problem drinking so we can better differentiate between the two.
Problem drinking refers to drinking habits that interfere with our health, well-being, or daily life. It can encompass anything from missing work due to a hangover to alcohol use disorder (AUD). Let’s learn to identify it.
Noticing signs of problem drinking helps us address the issue so it doesn’t become worse. Here are some signs to look out for.
Now that we know what to look out for, let’s take a closer look at the risk factors of alcohol misuse or AUD, to be even more mindful of additional precautions we may need to take to maintain or develop a positive relationship with alcohol.
Let’s get a clearer picture of how alcohol misuse can take root and what influences trigger it.
As we can see, many factors contribute to problem drinking. This is why social drinking can so easily transition into problem drinking. Let’s better understand what this looks like.
Social drinking might start out as just drinking here and there to have a good time with friends or celebrate something special. But the truth is, it can turn into problem drinking quickly.
Alcohol has slithered its way into many social situations. So, what started out as drinking occasionally can turn into excessive drinking. Let’s say we had a glass of wine to celebrate an anniversary, two cocktails (which can easily contain 4-6 standard drinks) at a work happy hour, a couple of beers during the sports game, and several shots during a wedding on the weekend. Yes, we may have consumed alcohol only in social settings, but the amount we consumed can be an issue.
And it’s not just the number of social activities. Alcohol is addictive, and it interferes with our brain’s reward system. When we drink, alcohol promotes the release of dopamine and serotonin, two chemicals that give us a sense of pleasure and happiness. Our brain will then associate alcohol with pleasure (even though the aftereffects can be more than unpleasant) and keep us coming back from more, even after the social occasion is over. Before we know it, our social drinking habit can transition to problem drinking, and we might not even realize it at first.
But don’t panic! If you suspect your habits are becoming unhealthy, there are ways to turn them around. Let’s get into some ways we can develop a healthy relationship with alcohol no matter what type of drinker we are currently.
While we might be an occasional drinker or social drinker, the nature of alcohol makes it easy to transition to problem drinking. These strategies can help prevent that shift from happening.
Tip: Take this short, two-minute quiz to find out what type of drinker you are. It helps you understand more about your drinking habits, which is the first step to making positive changes!
And remember, no matter what type of drinker we are — social drinker, occasional drinker, or problem drinker — quitting or cutting back on alcohol can only benefit our health and well-being!
While social drinking typically involves more moderate consumption and occurs only in social situations, it can cross the line into problem drinking when it begins to interfere with our daily life and overall well-being. The prevalence of alcohol in social settings and the tendency of alcohol to cause physical and neurological dependence can cause social drinking to become problematic. Whether we’re currently social or problem drinkers, let’s protect our health and well-being by implementing mindful habits to quit or cut back!
Alcohol and sobriety can change the dynamics of our relationships. Check out our latest blog for tips to navigate friendships with and without alcohol.
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 hundreds 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’re at a party surrounded by people. But since you’re not drinking, you might wonder if you’re lacking authentic connections with others. You’ve decided to make the commitment to sobriety, but now you find yourself thinking: “I have no friends because I don’t drink.” If you’re thinking this, you’re not alone. These are common feelings, but there are a lot of myths surrounding them! Contrary to popular belief, alcohol doesn’t strengthen friendships. In fact, it normally does the opposite because of the way alcohol affects our behavior and perception.
Alcohol can give us a false sense of connection, so when we stop drinking, we might feel lonely, like we’ve severed the ties to our friends we used to drink with. Navigating this change can be difficult, but it’s a key step in developing more authentic friendships and connections.
It’s just a drink, right? Not exactly. Alcohol might seem like just a choice of beverage, but it can have a major impact on our friendships and connections. Let’s see how:
At first glance, alcohol can seem like the thing that brings people together. Alcohol lowers our inhibitions, making it easier to talk to others. We might be more open to meeting new people, giving us the false impression that alcohol might mean more friends.
Alcohol also boosts the release of our “feel-good” hormones dopamine and serotonin, giving us a temporary sense of pleasure and connection. On top of that, sharing a drink with others can help us feel closer to them. As a result, our friendships and the things we do together can start to revolve around alcohol. But hey, it’s a good time, right?
It might seem like it at first, but the truth is that alcohol is a mind-altering drug that changes the way we think and act. That camaraderie we feel with those around us when we drink can feel like connection, but it can also lead to inauthentic friendships. Let’s see how things can take a turn.
We might feel good when we’re drinking, but alcohol's depressant effects kick in shortly after that first sip. Our mood can drop, we might feel anxious, and to top it off, we’re also not feeling our best physically, especially the morning after. When our friendships revolve around drinking, we might just be looking forward to our next “hangout,” but in the meantime, we might feel lonely and empty, leading to anxious attachment and a greater drive to drink with friends.
This might lead to alcohol dependence. Maybe we start to drink more than our friends and it’s hard to stop. They may not agree or show concern about our drinking habits, also potentially affecting our friendships.
Not only that, but peer pressure among friends can affect friendships. In fact, one study in the UK found that 85% of people have at some point been pressured by their friends to drink more. If we don’t want to drink more but we do anyway, we might resent those friends later, and if we decide not to drink despite the pressure, we might feel judged. Not good either way!
As we can see, alcohol may seem like the “social glue” and the core of our friendships, but things can quickly get messy.
If you’re looking to develop more authentic connections and want to take that step toward sobriety, keep reading! We’ll explore how quitting alcohol can also affect friendships, so we can better navigate the situation.
We just said that sobriety brings more genuine connections with others, and while this is true, it may come with its own challenges at the beginning. Since alcohol gives us a false sense of connection, when we quit drinking, it may seem like we’re losing all our friends.
You’ve gone sober and you're left wondering “Why does my friend treat me differently now?” If the friendship revolved around drinking, it might seem like you don’t have much in common now. Navigating friendships during our sobriety journey can be complex. While it might seem as if we’re losing friends, our journey gives us a chance to develop new friendships that better align with our new lifestyle. And it’s possible that those new friends will enjoy us for who we are and not because we’re drinking. But to accomplish this transition, we need to first recognize that alcohol gives us a false sense of connection.
When we overcome this feeling, we help ourselves open up to new friendships and redefine our inner circle. Here are some tips:
Now that we’re ready to meet new people, where do we begin? Is AA or any other support group the way to meet new friends?
The focus of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other support groups is to help us overcome negative drinking habits with the support of others. While it’s not exactly like Bumble BFF, it can be a great way to meet people who have similar values or are going through a similar experience.
However, it’s not the only way to make friends, and there can be some downsides. In a support group, others may also be struggling with their relationship with alcohol. As we’re making progress, others struggling or relapsing can be triggering. Plus, it can be easy to compare our journey to others, jeopardizing our own progress.
While support groups can be a way to meet new friends, we can also branch out. Let’s explore some practical strategies to help us redefine our inner circle.
Not all our friends need to be sober to respect our choices, but having sober friends can be beneficial. They might feel few and far between with the way alcohol is often integrated into our social settings, but these practices can help us develop our sober friendships.
These tips can help us redefine our friendships and navigate the disruptions that alcohol and sobriety can have on our relationships.
Now that we understand how alcohol negatively affects our friendships, we can navigate the feeling of losing friends after committing to sobriety. Instead of losing friends, we’re gaining more authentic connections and finding people around us who support us and our values. As Tennessee Williams said, “Life is partly what we make it, and partly what it is made by the friends we choose.” And the nice thing about friends is that there’s always room for more of them.
You’re at a party surrounded by people. But since you’re not drinking, you might wonder if you’re lacking authentic connections with others. You’ve decided to make the commitment to sobriety, but now you find yourself thinking: “I have no friends because I don’t drink.” If you’re thinking this, you’re not alone. These are common feelings, but there are a lot of myths surrounding them! Contrary to popular belief, alcohol doesn’t strengthen friendships. In fact, it normally does the opposite because of the way alcohol affects our behavior and perception.
Alcohol can give us a false sense of connection, so when we stop drinking, we might feel lonely, like we’ve severed the ties to our friends we used to drink with. Navigating this change can be difficult, but it’s a key step in developing more authentic friendships and connections.
It’s just a drink, right? Not exactly. Alcohol might seem like just a choice of beverage, but it can have a major impact on our friendships and connections. Let’s see how:
At first glance, alcohol can seem like the thing that brings people together. Alcohol lowers our inhibitions, making it easier to talk to others. We might be more open to meeting new people, giving us the false impression that alcohol might mean more friends.
Alcohol also boosts the release of our “feel-good” hormones dopamine and serotonin, giving us a temporary sense of pleasure and connection. On top of that, sharing a drink with others can help us feel closer to them. As a result, our friendships and the things we do together can start to revolve around alcohol. But hey, it’s a good time, right?
It might seem like it at first, but the truth is that alcohol is a mind-altering drug that changes the way we think and act. That camaraderie we feel with those around us when we drink can feel like connection, but it can also lead to inauthentic friendships. Let’s see how things can take a turn.
We might feel good when we’re drinking, but alcohol's depressant effects kick in shortly after that first sip. Our mood can drop, we might feel anxious, and to top it off, we’re also not feeling our best physically, especially the morning after. When our friendships revolve around drinking, we might just be looking forward to our next “hangout,” but in the meantime, we might feel lonely and empty, leading to anxious attachment and a greater drive to drink with friends.
This might lead to alcohol dependence. Maybe we start to drink more than our friends and it’s hard to stop. They may not agree or show concern about our drinking habits, also potentially affecting our friendships.
Not only that, but peer pressure among friends can affect friendships. In fact, one study in the UK found that 85% of people have at some point been pressured by their friends to drink more. If we don’t want to drink more but we do anyway, we might resent those friends later, and if we decide not to drink despite the pressure, we might feel judged. Not good either way!
As we can see, alcohol may seem like the “social glue” and the core of our friendships, but things can quickly get messy.
If you’re looking to develop more authentic connections and want to take that step toward sobriety, keep reading! We’ll explore how quitting alcohol can also affect friendships, so we can better navigate the situation.
We just said that sobriety brings more genuine connections with others, and while this is true, it may come with its own challenges at the beginning. Since alcohol gives us a false sense of connection, when we quit drinking, it may seem like we’re losing all our friends.
You’ve gone sober and you're left wondering “Why does my friend treat me differently now?” If the friendship revolved around drinking, it might seem like you don’t have much in common now. Navigating friendships during our sobriety journey can be complex. While it might seem as if we’re losing friends, our journey gives us a chance to develop new friendships that better align with our new lifestyle. And it’s possible that those new friends will enjoy us for who we are and not because we’re drinking. But to accomplish this transition, we need to first recognize that alcohol gives us a false sense of connection.
When we overcome this feeling, we help ourselves open up to new friendships and redefine our inner circle. Here are some tips:
Now that we’re ready to meet new people, where do we begin? Is AA or any other support group the way to meet new friends?
The focus of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other support groups is to help us overcome negative drinking habits with the support of others. While it’s not exactly like Bumble BFF, it can be a great way to meet people who have similar values or are going through a similar experience.
However, it’s not the only way to make friends, and there can be some downsides. In a support group, others may also be struggling with their relationship with alcohol. As we’re making progress, others struggling or relapsing can be triggering. Plus, it can be easy to compare our journey to others, jeopardizing our own progress.
While support groups can be a way to meet new friends, we can also branch out. Let’s explore some practical strategies to help us redefine our inner circle.
Not all our friends need to be sober to respect our choices, but having sober friends can be beneficial. They might feel few and far between with the way alcohol is often integrated into our social settings, but these practices can help us develop our sober friendships.
These tips can help us redefine our friendships and navigate the disruptions that alcohol and sobriety can have on our relationships.
Now that we understand how alcohol negatively affects our friendships, we can navigate the feeling of losing friends after committing to sobriety. Instead of losing friends, we’re gaining more authentic connections and finding people around us who support us and our values. As Tennessee Williams said, “Life is partly what we make it, and partly what it is made by the friends we choose.” And the nice thing about friends is that there’s always room for more of them.
Can you speed up alcohol metabolism? The truth may surprise you! Find out how hydration, food, and more can help metabolize alcohol and make mornings after easier.
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 hundreds 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!
Ever had another round of beers or that last tequila shot and wish you hadn’t? Whether it’s the dreaded morning-after hangover, the awkward walk home, or the night sweats that we know will keep us up at 3 a.m., there are plenty of reasons we might regret having had “just one more” drink. But, alas, the process is in motion, and we know what’s coming is inevitable. Or is it? Could there be a way to metabolize alcohol faster so we could get a free pass when it comes to the consequences?
Spoiler alert: While we hate to be the bearer of bad news, as of yet, there’s no magic solution. Short of time travel, what’s done is done, and there’s no way to completely undo the damage. That said, there are several things we can do to at least help our body process the booze with a bit more “oomph” and a bit less “ugh.”
While we might blame those “extra” drinks as the problem, as far as our body is concerned, any amount of booze is too much. Perceiving alcohol as a poison, our body tries to usher it out starting from the first sip. For a closer look at alcohol metabolism, check out “How Long Alcohol Remains Detectable in Your Body and Factors Influencing Its Metabolism.” For now, here’s the gist:
The liver leads the way in alcohol metabolism. Bearing the brunt of the burden, the liver is on the front lines of alcohol metabolism. As soon as it’s in the picture, all other tasks — such as metabolizing other nutrients — get put on hold, letting booze cut in line to be eliminated as soon as possible.
While drinking on a regular basis tends to raise our alcohol tolerance — the perceived effects we feel when we have a certain number of drinks — it doesn’t mean we’re actually metabolizing booze faster or more efficiently. It’s important to keep this fact in mind, since being able to “hold our liquor” might create the illusion that our body is happy to handle all that booze. The liver is still maxed out at one drink per hour, so giving it more than it can handle is asking for trouble and can potentially lead to alcohol poisoning and increase the risk of dependence.
So how can we get the process of alcohol metabolism moving along — and is it even possible to get it going faster? As we already learned, there’s no magic solution — without a time machine, there’s no way to undo the past. That said, there are some science-backed strategies that can help metabolize alcohol more efficiently or at least take measures to prevent any unnecessary stalling along the way. Others can boost our overall metabolism, giving the body a hand in processing everything on our plate (and in our glass).
Hydration is key when it comes to metabolizing alcohol. You know that parched feeling you get the morning after a boozy night? Alcohol is notorious for leaving us dehydrated, despite being a liquid. The reason has to do with the sneaky way it suppresses vasopressin, the hormone that tells our kidneys to hold on to water. The result? The floodgates open, and we end up losing more water than we should.
Since water is key in metabolism — including the metabolism of alcohol — staying hydrated will keep things running more smoothly. And while it won’t make the process “faster,” it will give the liver and kidneys some much-needed help in getting booze out of the body.
Remember those two key liver enzymes we mentioned earlier? Both need water to carry out the reactions they’re involved in. At the same time, the kidneys use water to filter out the toxins from our body. So remember to stay on top of your hydration game!
Tip: For every alcoholic drink, have a glass of water to help you stay hydrated. A bonus? It will also allow you to pace yourself. For bonus health points, throw in some electrolyte powder, such as Liquid IV. In addition to boosting hydration power, it will make the “spacer” drink taste better if you’re not a fan of plain old H2O.
It might seem counterintuitive at first — how can adding more stuff to digest help us metabolize alcohol more efficiently? But stick with us. While eating won’t help us metabolize alcohol faster, it will, in fact, ease the process and make it more comfortable. The reason? Although we might want to get booze out of our system as quickly as possible, what we actually need is to slow the alcohol absorption process down — and food does just that.
Why does slowing the process down instead of speeding it up leave us better off? When we eat on an empty stomach, our blood alcohol concentration levels skyrocket, leading to rapid intoxication. Think cocktail headaches, loss of coordination, and actions we might regret the next morning (that is, if we even remember them). With food in our stomach, our body absorbs the alcohol more slowly. We won’t become intoxicated as quickly and are setting ourselves up for an easier ride all around.
That said, by “food” we don’t mean a bag of chips or a box of cookies. Anything overly processed, spicy, or salty is bound to make things worse. Instead, think lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats — for example, salmon with wild rice or a turkey and avocado sandwich on multigrain bread.
Tip: Keep your fridge and pantry stocked with basics such as cheese, yogurt, nuts, or fresh fruits and veggies you can use to whip up a smoothie. And take a couple of protein bars along with you in your bag if you’re going out later — just in case dinner plans fall through or you need something to munch on later that night.
Another sneaky way that alcohol makes life difficult? It does a number on our sleep patterns. While it might initially make us drowsy (sometimes to the point of dozing off in that comfy couch spot we’ve parked in for the night, or even on the train ride home), it’s actually a sleep saboteur. The depressant effects send us to sleep, but we skip the most important part — the restorative REM stages. Alcohol’s “rebound effect” leads to sleep disruption in the second half of the night. In an effort to counteract the downer effect, the brain amps up the release of dynorphin, leaving us anxious and overstimulated. So if you’ve ever woken up at 3 a.m. after a night of drinking and wondered why, that’s your answer.
And while we can’t do much about this sneak attack once it’s in motion, we do have control over the night before. Making sure to get enough rest before we drink will help metabolize alcohol more efficiently. On the other hand, starting off in an already sleep deprived state is asking for trouble!
Tip: Create a relaxing bedtime routine to make sleep a more restorative experience. Think chamomile tea, a bit of mindfulness, a sound bath, an actual bath, or any other soothing activity that helps send you off into dreamland.
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Ever heard of “sweating out” the alcohol? While a jog through the park or a cardio boot camp session won’t help us metabolize alcohol faster, movement will help us feel better overall. For one thing, exercise improves our metabolic rate — so, in a way, it’s the only thinking that actually does help metabolize alcohol faster. However, the main way exercise helps is by boosting circulation, which helps our liver and kidneys filter out toxins more efficiently.
Tip: Make it a habit to go for an evening walk — whether or not it’s a drinking night. This way you’ll get in the rhythm of ending your day with a bit of mindful movement, which will come in handy regardless of what’s on the books for the night.
B vitamins, especially B1 (thiamine), B6, and B12, play a crucial role in metabolic processes, including alcohol metabolism. In addition to supporting the liver in processing alcohol directly, they help repair cellular damage alcohol leaves in its wake. Unfortunately, alcohol is notorious for interfering with nutrient absorption, leading to vitamin deficiencies. And since our body’s stores of B vitamins are hit particularly hard, the fallout is often a sluggish metabolism, fatigue, and weakness. So consider adding supplements to your routine!
Tip: While taking B vitamins in supplement form is convenient, there are lots of options if you’d rather go the natural route. To boost your vitamin B1 stores, go for whole grains, fortified cereals, meats, nuts, and legumes. To get more B6, choose poultry or fish such as salmon and tuna (which also offer omega-3 fatty acids — a brain-boosting bonus!). B12, in turn, is found in eggs, clams, and milk products.
In the words of William Gladstone, “If you are cold, tea will warm you up; if you are too heated it will cool you; if you are depressed, it will cheer you; if you are excited it will calm you.” And when it comes to getting some relief from the aftermath of a drinking bout, tea might help matters as well.
Legend has it, the first cup of green tea was brewed by accident when leaves from a wild tea tree flew into a pot of water set to a boil by Chinese Emperor Shen Nong back in 2737 BCE. The wise emperor caught on to the effects, and centuries later we’re glad he did — especially when it comes to metabolizing alcohol.
Green tea is packed with catechins — antioxidants that are known to support liver function and protect it from oxidative stress, boosting its ability to metabolize toxins. Moreover, green tea has been linked to increased fat oxidation (which is how the body breaks down fat), improving metabolism across the board. While it’s no magical cure, it's a step in the right direction when it comes to better alcohol metabolism over time.
Tip: Start and end the night by sipping some green tea. You can even make green tea popsicles and store some in the freezer for a healthy option when those midnight munchies hit.
In addition to green tea, turmeric and ginger help ease the load alcohol places on the liver. Both are powerful anti-inflammatory agents that reduce liver inflammation caused by alcohol, allowing this vital organ to do its job. Plus, while alcohol slows down our metabolism across the board, ginger helps get things moving in the gut and boosts overall metabolism, helping to counterbalance the sluggishness alcohol causes.
It’s no coincidence that ginger is one of the new science-backed hangover relief methods out there. After all, hangovers are the result of alcohol metabolism, which leads to inflammation, dehydration, and acetaldehyde buildup that happens when our liver gets overwhelmed.
There are lots of ways to add turmeric and ginger to your diet. For example, you can make an energizing smoothie packed with anti-inflammatory benefits by blending ginger and turmeric with coconut water and a banana. Throw in some oranges for an extra vitamin 6 boost! Or boil some water with a few pieces of ginger in it. Maybe add some dates for sweetness or turmeric to relieve even more inflammation!
Tip: Want to get even more creative? Roll up ground ginger and turmeric with dates, oats, and nuts to make healthy energy balls for a quick snack.
Last but not least, it’s important to ask ourselves a bigger question — could our desire to metabolize alcohol faster be a sign that we might want to reconsider our relationship with alcohol? Approach this question in the spirit of curiosity rather than judgment: what perks can cutting back or taking a break from booze bring?
Here at Reframe, many others who’ve been where you are found that putting alcohol in the back seat and exploring life without it allowed them to discover a happier and healthier version of themselves. From better sleep to weight loss, higher energy levels, mental sharpness, and stronger relationships, the benefits start adding up quickly. Ready to see for yourself?
Ever had another round of beers or that last tequila shot and wish you hadn’t? Whether it’s the dreaded morning-after hangover, the awkward walk home, or the night sweats that we know will keep us up at 3 a.m., there are plenty of reasons we might regret having had “just one more” drink. But, alas, the process is in motion, and we know what’s coming is inevitable. Or is it? Could there be a way to metabolize alcohol faster so we could get a free pass when it comes to the consequences?
Spoiler alert: While we hate to be the bearer of bad news, as of yet, there’s no magic solution. Short of time travel, what’s done is done, and there’s no way to completely undo the damage. That said, there are several things we can do to at least help our body process the booze with a bit more “oomph” and a bit less “ugh.”
While we might blame those “extra” drinks as the problem, as far as our body is concerned, any amount of booze is too much. Perceiving alcohol as a poison, our body tries to usher it out starting from the first sip. For a closer look at alcohol metabolism, check out “How Long Alcohol Remains Detectable in Your Body and Factors Influencing Its Metabolism.” For now, here’s the gist:
The liver leads the way in alcohol metabolism. Bearing the brunt of the burden, the liver is on the front lines of alcohol metabolism. As soon as it’s in the picture, all other tasks — such as metabolizing other nutrients — get put on hold, letting booze cut in line to be eliminated as soon as possible.
While drinking on a regular basis tends to raise our alcohol tolerance — the perceived effects we feel when we have a certain number of drinks — it doesn’t mean we’re actually metabolizing booze faster or more efficiently. It’s important to keep this fact in mind, since being able to “hold our liquor” might create the illusion that our body is happy to handle all that booze. The liver is still maxed out at one drink per hour, so giving it more than it can handle is asking for trouble and can potentially lead to alcohol poisoning and increase the risk of dependence.
So how can we get the process of alcohol metabolism moving along — and is it even possible to get it going faster? As we already learned, there’s no magic solution — without a time machine, there’s no way to undo the past. That said, there are some science-backed strategies that can help metabolize alcohol more efficiently or at least take measures to prevent any unnecessary stalling along the way. Others can boost our overall metabolism, giving the body a hand in processing everything on our plate (and in our glass).
Hydration is key when it comes to metabolizing alcohol. You know that parched feeling you get the morning after a boozy night? Alcohol is notorious for leaving us dehydrated, despite being a liquid. The reason has to do with the sneaky way it suppresses vasopressin, the hormone that tells our kidneys to hold on to water. The result? The floodgates open, and we end up losing more water than we should.
Since water is key in metabolism — including the metabolism of alcohol — staying hydrated will keep things running more smoothly. And while it won’t make the process “faster,” it will give the liver and kidneys some much-needed help in getting booze out of the body.
Remember those two key liver enzymes we mentioned earlier? Both need water to carry out the reactions they’re involved in. At the same time, the kidneys use water to filter out the toxins from our body. So remember to stay on top of your hydration game!
Tip: For every alcoholic drink, have a glass of water to help you stay hydrated. A bonus? It will also allow you to pace yourself. For bonus health points, throw in some electrolyte powder, such as Liquid IV. In addition to boosting hydration power, it will make the “spacer” drink taste better if you’re not a fan of plain old H2O.
It might seem counterintuitive at first — how can adding more stuff to digest help us metabolize alcohol more efficiently? But stick with us. While eating won’t help us metabolize alcohol faster, it will, in fact, ease the process and make it more comfortable. The reason? Although we might want to get booze out of our system as quickly as possible, what we actually need is to slow the alcohol absorption process down — and food does just that.
Why does slowing the process down instead of speeding it up leave us better off? When we eat on an empty stomach, our blood alcohol concentration levels skyrocket, leading to rapid intoxication. Think cocktail headaches, loss of coordination, and actions we might regret the next morning (that is, if we even remember them). With food in our stomach, our body absorbs the alcohol more slowly. We won’t become intoxicated as quickly and are setting ourselves up for an easier ride all around.
That said, by “food” we don’t mean a bag of chips or a box of cookies. Anything overly processed, spicy, or salty is bound to make things worse. Instead, think lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats — for example, salmon with wild rice or a turkey and avocado sandwich on multigrain bread.
Tip: Keep your fridge and pantry stocked with basics such as cheese, yogurt, nuts, or fresh fruits and veggies you can use to whip up a smoothie. And take a couple of protein bars along with you in your bag if you’re going out later — just in case dinner plans fall through or you need something to munch on later that night.
Another sneaky way that alcohol makes life difficult? It does a number on our sleep patterns. While it might initially make us drowsy (sometimes to the point of dozing off in that comfy couch spot we’ve parked in for the night, or even on the train ride home), it’s actually a sleep saboteur. The depressant effects send us to sleep, but we skip the most important part — the restorative REM stages. Alcohol’s “rebound effect” leads to sleep disruption in the second half of the night. In an effort to counteract the downer effect, the brain amps up the release of dynorphin, leaving us anxious and overstimulated. So if you’ve ever woken up at 3 a.m. after a night of drinking and wondered why, that’s your answer.
And while we can’t do much about this sneak attack once it’s in motion, we do have control over the night before. Making sure to get enough rest before we drink will help metabolize alcohol more efficiently. On the other hand, starting off in an already sleep deprived state is asking for trouble!
Tip: Create a relaxing bedtime routine to make sleep a more restorative experience. Think chamomile tea, a bit of mindfulness, a sound bath, an actual bath, or any other soothing activity that helps send you off into dreamland.
Ever heard of “sweating out” the alcohol? While a jog through the park or a cardio boot camp session won’t help us metabolize alcohol faster, movement will help us feel better overall. For one thing, exercise improves our metabolic rate — so, in a way, it’s the only thinking that actually does help metabolize alcohol faster. However, the main way exercise helps is by boosting circulation, which helps our liver and kidneys filter out toxins more efficiently.
Tip: Make it a habit to go for an evening walk — whether or not it’s a drinking night. This way you’ll get in the rhythm of ending your day with a bit of mindful movement, which will come in handy regardless of what’s on the books for the night.
B vitamins, especially B1 (thiamine), B6, and B12, play a crucial role in metabolic processes, including alcohol metabolism. In addition to supporting the liver in processing alcohol directly, they help repair cellular damage alcohol leaves in its wake. Unfortunately, alcohol is notorious for interfering with nutrient absorption, leading to vitamin deficiencies. And since our body’s stores of B vitamins are hit particularly hard, the fallout is often a sluggish metabolism, fatigue, and weakness. So consider adding supplements to your routine!
Tip: While taking B vitamins in supplement form is convenient, there are lots of options if you’d rather go the natural route. To boost your vitamin B1 stores, go for whole grains, fortified cereals, meats, nuts, and legumes. To get more B6, choose poultry or fish such as salmon and tuna (which also offer omega-3 fatty acids — a brain-boosting bonus!). B12, in turn, is found in eggs, clams, and milk products.
In the words of William Gladstone, “If you are cold, tea will warm you up; if you are too heated it will cool you; if you are depressed, it will cheer you; if you are excited it will calm you.” And when it comes to getting some relief from the aftermath of a drinking bout, tea might help matters as well.
Legend has it, the first cup of green tea was brewed by accident when leaves from a wild tea tree flew into a pot of water set to a boil by Chinese Emperor Shen Nong back in 2737 BCE. The wise emperor caught on to the effects, and centuries later we’re glad he did — especially when it comes to metabolizing alcohol.
Green tea is packed with catechins — antioxidants that are known to support liver function and protect it from oxidative stress, boosting its ability to metabolize toxins. Moreover, green tea has been linked to increased fat oxidation (which is how the body breaks down fat), improving metabolism across the board. While it’s no magical cure, it's a step in the right direction when it comes to better alcohol metabolism over time.
Tip: Start and end the night by sipping some green tea. You can even make green tea popsicles and store some in the freezer for a healthy option when those midnight munchies hit.
In addition to green tea, turmeric and ginger help ease the load alcohol places on the liver. Both are powerful anti-inflammatory agents that reduce liver inflammation caused by alcohol, allowing this vital organ to do its job. Plus, while alcohol slows down our metabolism across the board, ginger helps get things moving in the gut and boosts overall metabolism, helping to counterbalance the sluggishness alcohol causes.
It’s no coincidence that ginger is one of the new science-backed hangover relief methods out there. After all, hangovers are the result of alcohol metabolism, which leads to inflammation, dehydration, and acetaldehyde buildup that happens when our liver gets overwhelmed.
There are lots of ways to add turmeric and ginger to your diet. For example, you can make an energizing smoothie packed with anti-inflammatory benefits by blending ginger and turmeric with coconut water and a banana. Throw in some oranges for an extra vitamin 6 boost! Or boil some water with a few pieces of ginger in it. Maybe add some dates for sweetness or turmeric to relieve even more inflammation!
Tip: Want to get even more creative? Roll up ground ginger and turmeric with dates, oats, and nuts to make healthy energy balls for a quick snack.
Last but not least, it’s important to ask ourselves a bigger question — could our desire to metabolize alcohol faster be a sign that we might want to reconsider our relationship with alcohol? Approach this question in the spirit of curiosity rather than judgment: what perks can cutting back or taking a break from booze bring?
Here at Reframe, many others who’ve been where you are found that putting alcohol in the back seat and exploring life without it allowed them to discover a happier and healthier version of themselves. From better sleep to weight loss, higher energy levels, mental sharpness, and stronger relationships, the benefits start adding up quickly. Ready to see for yourself?
Why are some people alcoholics while others can take it or leave it? It's not all about willpower! Discover unexpected causes of alcoholism that could be affecting you.
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 hundreds 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!
Think back to your college days. Chances are you had roommates at some point. And chances are there was lots of booze around. But while it might seem as if “everyone” was drinking, more often than not it’s not actually the case. People drink at different levels: some drink on rare occasions (think one glass of champagne at New Year’s Eve or a couple of beers at the Fourth of July barbecue); others are more regular drinkers (the “take it or leave it” kind); some drink heavily; and others develop a full-blown addiction.
Why do some people drink more than others? And why do people become alcoholics (or those with alcohol use disorder or AUD to use the preferred term)? Some of the answers might surprise you!
Why is it that some people keep their drinking to a minimum while others slide down the path of addiction — sometimes with devastating results? In other words, why do people become alcoholics — or simply end up drinking too much?
Whether or not we end up with AUD, there are some common threads in the stories of those who find that drinking has gotten a strong hold over them. From genetics or environmental factors to the nature of alcohol itself, there can be various factors at play.
First and foremost: whether or not we’re talking about alcohol use disorder (AUD), alcohol misuse, or even an occasional bout of heavy drinking, there’s one common thread that runs through the reasons why we tend to drink too much. To put it simply, alcohol is addictive. It triggers the brain’s reward system and keeps us coming back for more. Here’s what happens in more detail:
If this rings true, you’re certainly not alone: according to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, as many as 28.1 million adults over age 18 in the U.S. struggled with AUD in the past year. To learn more about AUD, check out “What Is Alcohol Use Disorder?”
Tip: Luckily, there are lots of treatment options available that can help you get back on track. From inpatient treatment to cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based techniques, and apps such as Reframe, there are many paths to long-lasting and sustainable recovery. The key is to work with your brain rather than against it by tapping into the power of neuroplasticity — the brain’s ability to rewire itself.
As Annie Grace writes in This Naked Mind, in our society, “alcohol is the only drug on earth you have to justify not taking.” Many of us come to see alcohol as synonymous with celebrations, socializing, and relaxing after a long day. And the media certainly does its part in keeping this illusion alive!
From seeing Ted and his friends on How I Met Your Mother down beers on what seems like a daily basis to watching the regulars on Cheers at the local bar, there’s plenty of proof that the media tends to normalize and glamorize alcohol. It’s easy to forget that the actors on our beloved TV shows aren’t actually drunk on set — and wouldn’t be nearly as funny or charming if they were. (Take a look at “Exposure to Alcohol Use in Movies and Problematic Use of Alcohol” for a deep dive.)
Even reality shows that feature alcohol are carefully orchestrated to make it appear more glamorous on the screen than it actually is, with the reality stars sitting in jacuzzis sipping their bottomless flutes of champagne. Likewise, booze-positive social media posts represent a highlight reel — after all, people don’t share their hangovers or rehab stints with the same gusto.
Tip: If you feel that the media triggers unhealthy drinking patterns in your own experience, it’s time to get savvy about it. Be mindful about what you watch and listen to and opt for shows that don’t focus on drinking. As for social media, the best thing to do is to “click with caution” and opt out of following or engaging with anything that stirs up cravings. The power is in your hands!
Research shows that AUD is at least partially genetic. Specifically, differences in genes that code for enzymes involved in alcohol metabolism might be responsible for differences in how we metabolize alcohol.
Our liver uses these two enzymes to digest alcohol, first converting it to acetaldehyde — a toxic byproduct responsible for many of alcohol’s harmful effects — with the help of alcohol dehydrogenase. It then uses another enzyme — aldehyde dehydrogenase — to turn acetaldehyde into harmless acetic acid.
There are genes that code for the proteins that make up these two enzymes. Science shows that differences in these genes lead to structural distinctions in the enzymes and affect their function. These distinctions, in turn, allow some of us to metabolize alcohol more efficiently. This rate of metabolization is a risk factor for AUD.
Moreover, the way our dopamine pathway is structured might impact how booze affects us, leading some of us to be more sensitive than others to alcohol’s effects. To learn more about the genetics behind AUD and drinking habits, check out “Alcoholism: Genetic Disease or Lifestyle Choice? Debunking Myths.”
Tip: Dive into your family history for signs that heavy drinking might be in your genes. Talk to supportive family members for advice along the way, and keep the information you find in mind. It’ll help you see the full picture as you decide what’s right for you.
Wait, what? What could taxes, unemployment rates, and wages possibly have to do with our drinking habits? As it turns out, plenty! Research shows that when the economy takes a hit, our drinking habits do too. Here are some of the trends:
There are several key reasons behind these trends. For one thing, unemployment leaves us with more time on our hands. The added anxiety means we’re likely to go into “fight-or-flight” mode: our amygdala fires up the stress response, which leads to cortisol release, insomnia, and burnout — all of which might lead us to seek temporary relief in booze. As many of us know first-hand, however, alcohol only calms the emotional seas temporarily. Within hours, the downer effects give way to increased anxiety as the brain releases dynorphin in an attempt to rebalance itself.
The structure of our day disappears, boredom creeps in, and we might be tempted to drown it all in the bottle. And even if we realize we’re sliding into the alcohol trap, we might find ourselves without access to much-needed mental health resources that could offer support.
If that’s you, you’re certainly not alone. But now it’s time to get proactive! Fill your day with meaningful activities and stick to a schedule the way you normally would, even if you’re not working. Structure is everything — it’ll keep cravings at bay, keep your mind active and engaged while making you feel productive and optimistic.
Tip: Reach out to friends and family members for support — and check out the Reframe Forum for extra guidance and advice. There are plenty of people who’ve been exactly where you are right now and know what it’s like.
Ever wonder why bars crank up the music so much? Science says it can make us drink more. Studies showed that people drink more when there’s (any) music in the background, and one showed that tempo matters — faster music leads to faster drinking.
But that’s not all! A recent study by Nicolas Guéguen of the Université de Bretagne-Sud showed that loud music in particular gets bar-hoppers running up their tabs. The researchers conducted a unique “field” experiment — in this case the “field” was two different bars the scientists used to study drinking behaviors of 40 male beer drinkers. As it turned out, there was a 31% increase in booze consumption in the bar that played music at an 88 dB volume compared to the more “normal” 72 dB at the other location. (For those curious what this translates to in terms of actual drinks, the answer is about one extra beer per patron: while those in the first bar had an average of 3.4 beers, those in the second lagged behind at 2.6.)
Why the difference? The researchers suggest two reasons. The first is higher arousal: louder music shakes people up and gets them going, making them more likely to move around and order more drinks while they’re at it. Moreover, as you might have guessed, cranking up the volume makes it harder to talk to those around you. So what is there left to do? Order another round.
Tip: While this last reason you might be drinking too much is a bit more innocuous than the rest, it’s worth it to keep it on your radar. Simply knowing that you’re walking into a potential “booze trap” when you hear that music thumping can serve as a signal to pause and check in with yourself, reaffirming your intentions for the night. And, of course, you can always opt for a quieter location!
In the end, whatever the reasons are for you drinking too much, the crucial thing is to realize it. Congratulations on taking the first step! Now it’s all about setting healthier drinking goals — and maybe taking a break from booze altogether. Remember to continue developing healthy coping skills (such as exercise, journaling, or meditation) and surround yourself with supportive people. And don’t forget that Reframe is here to cheer you on and support you every step of the way!
Think back to your college days. Chances are you had roommates at some point. And chances are there was lots of booze around. But while it might seem as if “everyone” was drinking, more often than not it’s not actually the case. People drink at different levels: some drink on rare occasions (think one glass of champagne at New Year’s Eve or a couple of beers at the Fourth of July barbecue); others are more regular drinkers (the “take it or leave it” kind); some drink heavily; and others develop a full-blown addiction.
Why do some people drink more than others? And why do people become alcoholics (or those with alcohol use disorder or AUD to use the preferred term)? Some of the answers might surprise you!
Why is it that some people keep their drinking to a minimum while others slide down the path of addiction — sometimes with devastating results? In other words, why do people become alcoholics — or simply end up drinking too much?
Whether or not we end up with AUD, there are some common threads in the stories of those who find that drinking has gotten a strong hold over them. From genetics or environmental factors to the nature of alcohol itself, there can be various factors at play.
First and foremost: whether or not we’re talking about alcohol use disorder (AUD), alcohol misuse, or even an occasional bout of heavy drinking, there’s one common thread that runs through the reasons why we tend to drink too much. To put it simply, alcohol is addictive. It triggers the brain’s reward system and keeps us coming back for more. Here’s what happens in more detail:
If this rings true, you’re certainly not alone: according to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, as many as 28.1 million adults over age 18 in the U.S. struggled with AUD in the past year. To learn more about AUD, check out “What Is Alcohol Use Disorder?”
Tip: Luckily, there are lots of treatment options available that can help you get back on track. From inpatient treatment to cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based techniques, and apps such as Reframe, there are many paths to long-lasting and sustainable recovery. The key is to work with your brain rather than against it by tapping into the power of neuroplasticity — the brain’s ability to rewire itself.
As Annie Grace writes in This Naked Mind, in our society, “alcohol is the only drug on earth you have to justify not taking.” Many of us come to see alcohol as synonymous with celebrations, socializing, and relaxing after a long day. And the media certainly does its part in keeping this illusion alive!
From seeing Ted and his friends on How I Met Your Mother down beers on what seems like a daily basis to watching the regulars on Cheers at the local bar, there’s plenty of proof that the media tends to normalize and glamorize alcohol. It’s easy to forget that the actors on our beloved TV shows aren’t actually drunk on set — and wouldn’t be nearly as funny or charming if they were. (Take a look at “Exposure to Alcohol Use in Movies and Problematic Use of Alcohol” for a deep dive.)
Even reality shows that feature alcohol are carefully orchestrated to make it appear more glamorous on the screen than it actually is, with the reality stars sitting in jacuzzis sipping their bottomless flutes of champagne. Likewise, booze-positive social media posts represent a highlight reel — after all, people don’t share their hangovers or rehab stints with the same gusto.
Tip: If you feel that the media triggers unhealthy drinking patterns in your own experience, it’s time to get savvy about it. Be mindful about what you watch and listen to and opt for shows that don’t focus on drinking. As for social media, the best thing to do is to “click with caution” and opt out of following or engaging with anything that stirs up cravings. The power is in your hands!
Research shows that AUD is at least partially genetic. Specifically, differences in genes that code for enzymes involved in alcohol metabolism might be responsible for differences in how we metabolize alcohol.
Our liver uses these two enzymes to digest alcohol, first converting it to acetaldehyde — a toxic byproduct responsible for many of alcohol’s harmful effects — with the help of alcohol dehydrogenase. It then uses another enzyme — aldehyde dehydrogenase — to turn acetaldehyde into harmless acetic acid.
There are genes that code for the proteins that make up these two enzymes. Science shows that differences in these genes lead to structural distinctions in the enzymes and affect their function. These distinctions, in turn, allow some of us to metabolize alcohol more efficiently. This rate of metabolization is a risk factor for AUD.
Moreover, the way our dopamine pathway is structured might impact how booze affects us, leading some of us to be more sensitive than others to alcohol’s effects. To learn more about the genetics behind AUD and drinking habits, check out “Alcoholism: Genetic Disease or Lifestyle Choice? Debunking Myths.”
Tip: Dive into your family history for signs that heavy drinking might be in your genes. Talk to supportive family members for advice along the way, and keep the information you find in mind. It’ll help you see the full picture as you decide what’s right for you.
Wait, what? What could taxes, unemployment rates, and wages possibly have to do with our drinking habits? As it turns out, plenty! Research shows that when the economy takes a hit, our drinking habits do too. Here are some of the trends:
There are several key reasons behind these trends. For one thing, unemployment leaves us with more time on our hands. The added anxiety means we’re likely to go into “fight-or-flight” mode: our amygdala fires up the stress response, which leads to cortisol release, insomnia, and burnout — all of which might lead us to seek temporary relief in booze. As many of us know first-hand, however, alcohol only calms the emotional seas temporarily. Within hours, the downer effects give way to increased anxiety as the brain releases dynorphin in an attempt to rebalance itself.
The structure of our day disappears, boredom creeps in, and we might be tempted to drown it all in the bottle. And even if we realize we’re sliding into the alcohol trap, we might find ourselves without access to much-needed mental health resources that could offer support.
If that’s you, you’re certainly not alone. But now it’s time to get proactive! Fill your day with meaningful activities and stick to a schedule the way you normally would, even if you’re not working. Structure is everything — it’ll keep cravings at bay, keep your mind active and engaged while making you feel productive and optimistic.
Tip: Reach out to friends and family members for support — and check out the Reframe Forum for extra guidance and advice. There are plenty of people who’ve been exactly where you are right now and know what it’s like.
Ever wonder why bars crank up the music so much? Science says it can make us drink more. Studies showed that people drink more when there’s (any) music in the background, and one showed that tempo matters — faster music leads to faster drinking.
But that’s not all! A recent study by Nicolas Guéguen of the Université de Bretagne-Sud showed that loud music in particular gets bar-hoppers running up their tabs. The researchers conducted a unique “field” experiment — in this case the “field” was two different bars the scientists used to study drinking behaviors of 40 male beer drinkers. As it turned out, there was a 31% increase in booze consumption in the bar that played music at an 88 dB volume compared to the more “normal” 72 dB at the other location. (For those curious what this translates to in terms of actual drinks, the answer is about one extra beer per patron: while those in the first bar had an average of 3.4 beers, those in the second lagged behind at 2.6.)
Why the difference? The researchers suggest two reasons. The first is higher arousal: louder music shakes people up and gets them going, making them more likely to move around and order more drinks while they’re at it. Moreover, as you might have guessed, cranking up the volume makes it harder to talk to those around you. So what is there left to do? Order another round.
Tip: While this last reason you might be drinking too much is a bit more innocuous than the rest, it’s worth it to keep it on your radar. Simply knowing that you’re walking into a potential “booze trap” when you hear that music thumping can serve as a signal to pause and check in with yourself, reaffirming your intentions for the night. And, of course, you can always opt for a quieter location!
In the end, whatever the reasons are for you drinking too much, the crucial thing is to realize it. Congratulations on taking the first step! Now it’s all about setting healthier drinking goals — and maybe taking a break from booze altogether. Remember to continue developing healthy coping skills (such as exercise, journaling, or meditation) and surround yourself with supportive people. And don’t forget that Reframe is here to cheer you on and support you every step of the way!
Drinking before scuba diving puts our health and safety at risk. Check out our latest blog for more info on how drinking even the night before isn’t a good idea.
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 hundreds 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!
“Are you for scuba?” While you may or may not have seen the internet meme, chances are you’ve heard of scuba diving.
Imagine you’re on vacation, enjoying the bliss of not having to worry about chores or deadlines when you realize that you might have indulged in one too many Mai Tais by the beach. The next morning, you’re left reaching for a couple extra hours of shut-eye and some painkillers to shake off the nagging headache. But if you’ve got a scuba dive on the agenda, those lingering effects of alcohol pose even greater risks.
The haze of alcohol can impair our coordination and judgment, making it harder to stay safe and fully enjoy our underwater adventure. Before we dive in, let’s gear up with a better understanding of how drinking the night before can jeopardize our health and safety underwater.
Tanning is our body’s natural response to ultraviolet (UV) exposure. UV rays from the sun penetrate the outer layers of our skin, triggering cells called melanocytes.
Melanocytes produce melanin, which is the pigment responsible for giving our skin its color. So, we might think we’re just getting a sun-kissed glow from tanning, but it’s actually our body’s way of protecting itself from further damage.
Excessive exposure to UV rays damages skin cells, accelerates aging, and increases the risk of skin cancer. So, although we might be seeking that golden glow or that sun-kissed radiance that says “I just came back from vacation,” it’s important to understand the long-term effect tanning can have on our skin’s health.
Alcohol and scuba diving is a risky mix due to drinking’s effects on our body. Here are some effects that interfere with a safe dive.
Now that we see how alcohol undermines our safety underwater, understanding the timeline of its effects helps explain why drinking the night before scuba diving could be a bad idea.
To understand when it’s safe to dive after drinking, let’s break down how alcohol’s effects unfold over time.
Within 10 to 60 minutes after we drink, alcohol gets absorbed into our bloodstream. It travels quickly to our central nervous system (CNS), which is known as the body’s control center.
Since alcohol is a depressant, it slows down communication within the CNS, leading to physical effects like reduced coordination and slower reaction time. It also leads to cognitive effects such as impaired judgment and lowered inhibitions. This is when we feel alcohol’s peak effects, making it the most dangerous time for diving.
The effects of alcohol can seriously compromise our ability to dive safely. Impaired motor coordination and delayed cognitive function make handling scuba equipment and responding to underwater challenges more difficult. But that’s not all. Alcohol also disrupts our body’s oxygen and nitrogen absorption.
This can lead to serious complications such as hypoxia, where our body doesn’t receive enough oxygen, resulting in symptoms like difficulty breathing, confusion, and bluish skin. On the flip side, alcohol increases nitrogen absorption, increasing the risk of decompression sickness, and resulting in symptoms such as dizziness, pain, and fatigue. In short, drinking shortly before diving is a recipe for danger, affecting both our body’s physical responses and the way we handle pressure changes underwater.
Roughly 1 to 6 hours after our last drink, blood alcohol levels start to drop as our liver works hard to break it down. Since the liver can only process about one standard drink per hour, alcohol can linger in our system for far longer than we realize, even when the initial buzz fades.
While the more apparent effects like feeling off-balance, euphoric, or disoriented may wear off, the subtler but equally dangerous aftereffects such as drowsiness, dehydration, and mental fog begin to creep in.
At this stage, even though we might feel more “sober,” our ability to properly manage our scuba equipment, respond to unexpected situations, navigate underwater environments, and follow safety protocols is still compromised. These lingering effects can reduce our ability to dive safely and respond to potential hazards underwater.
As our body processes more of the alcohol, about 6 to 12 hours after our last drink, the apparent effects of drinking like feeling tipsy and disoriented may fade.
That’s when hangover symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headache, and dehydration can start to kick in. Even if we crash quickly after a night of drinking, alcohol disrupts our normal sleep cycle. That’s why we might end up tossing and turning, waking up way too early, and still feeling exhausted, no matter how long we slept.
Even if we’re up early, we won’t exactly be ready to conquer the day. Lack of sleep and dehydration amplify hangover symptoms, making even simple tasks a challenge. Throw scuba diving into the mix, and those hangover symptoms can escalate, putting us at serious risk underwater.
By about 12 to 24 hours after our last drink, alcohol can still be detected in some tests such as blood and breath tests, even though we’ll likely start to feel normal again. Everyone metabolizes alcohol differently, however, and those of us who are more sensitive to alcohol may still feel lingering effects.
Even if the majority of the alcohol is gone, the remnants of a hangover — such as brain fog, low motivation, and general lethargy can persist, affecting our daily activities. Scuba diving demands full alertness and physical fitness, so any lingering effects of alcohol can seriously impact our safety. This is why drinking the night before diving is not recommended.
After 24 hours, most of the residual effects have most likely subsided. However, alcohol’s disruption of our sleep patterns and hydration levels might leave us still feeling off. For activities like scuba diving, which require optimal physical and mental performance, it’s crucial to listen to our body and gauge how we’re feeling.
To ensure a safer and more enjoyable diving experience, it’s best to wait at least 24 hours after our last drink. This helps minimize risks and enhances our overall diving safety.
From the initial effects that impair coordination to the lingering hangover symptoms that compromise our mental and physical state, the risks of drinking before diving are clear. With this in mind, it’s important to consider safer alternatives to prepare for a dive.
We can’t talk about drinking and diving without addressing the post-diving situation. We’ve talked about avoiding alcohol before scuba diving, but what about after? It’s best to wait at least a few hours after your dive, as alcohol can mask symptoms of decompression sickness even hours later. Heavy drinking should be avoided at all costs
Scuba diving is more than just a chance to explore the ocean — it’s an underwater adventure that takes us beyond a trip to the aquarium. With the help of specialized equipment, we can breathe underwater and explore the depths of the ocean. But this thrilling underwater experience comes with its own set of safety challenges because our body responds to the underwater environment and depth changes in unique ways.
Ever brought a bag of chips on an airplane and watched it puff up with the change in pressure? Something similar happens to our body when we dive, which is why preparing in advance and following safety guidelines are so important. Even though scuba diving certifications cover essential safety training or we’re diving with a certified instructor, it’s always good to brush up on the basics. Here are a few key tips:
Now that we’ve covered the basics of scuba diving safety, let’s dive into how drinking and diving go against these safety rules.
Before we reach for that pre-dive tropical cocktail, let’s explore some smarter ways to prepare for our underwater adventure — without the risks that come with alcohol. Consider these alternatives:
By swapping out alcohol for healthier alternatives, we’ll feel more energized, clearheaded, and ready to fully enjoy our scuba diving experience.
If you’re thinking about drinking before scuba diving, remember that the effects of alcohol linger long after the last drink. Just as a single misstep on land can lead to a tumble, a night of drinking before diving can compromise our safety underwater. Prioritize health and safety by steering clear of alcohol up to 24 hours before diving to ensure you’re ready to navigate the depths with clarity and confidence. Here’s to making every underwater adventure as thrilling as it is safe!
“Are you for scuba?” While you may or may not have seen the internet meme, chances are you’ve heard of scuba diving.
Imagine you’re on vacation, enjoying the bliss of not having to worry about chores or deadlines when you realize that you might have indulged in one too many Mai Tais by the beach. The next morning, you’re left reaching for a couple extra hours of shut-eye and some painkillers to shake off the nagging headache. But if you’ve got a scuba dive on the agenda, those lingering effects of alcohol pose even greater risks.
The haze of alcohol can impair our coordination and judgment, making it harder to stay safe and fully enjoy our underwater adventure. Before we dive in, let’s gear up with a better understanding of how drinking the night before can jeopardize our health and safety underwater.
Tanning is our body’s natural response to ultraviolet (UV) exposure. UV rays from the sun penetrate the outer layers of our skin, triggering cells called melanocytes.
Melanocytes produce melanin, which is the pigment responsible for giving our skin its color. So, we might think we’re just getting a sun-kissed glow from tanning, but it’s actually our body’s way of protecting itself from further damage.
Excessive exposure to UV rays damages skin cells, accelerates aging, and increases the risk of skin cancer. So, although we might be seeking that golden glow or that sun-kissed radiance that says “I just came back from vacation,” it’s important to understand the long-term effect tanning can have on our skin’s health.
Alcohol and scuba diving is a risky mix due to drinking’s effects on our body. Here are some effects that interfere with a safe dive.
Now that we see how alcohol undermines our safety underwater, understanding the timeline of its effects helps explain why drinking the night before scuba diving could be a bad idea.
To understand when it’s safe to dive after drinking, let’s break down how alcohol’s effects unfold over time.
Within 10 to 60 minutes after we drink, alcohol gets absorbed into our bloodstream. It travels quickly to our central nervous system (CNS), which is known as the body’s control center.
Since alcohol is a depressant, it slows down communication within the CNS, leading to physical effects like reduced coordination and slower reaction time. It also leads to cognitive effects such as impaired judgment and lowered inhibitions. This is when we feel alcohol’s peak effects, making it the most dangerous time for diving.
The effects of alcohol can seriously compromise our ability to dive safely. Impaired motor coordination and delayed cognitive function make handling scuba equipment and responding to underwater challenges more difficult. But that’s not all. Alcohol also disrupts our body’s oxygen and nitrogen absorption.
This can lead to serious complications such as hypoxia, where our body doesn’t receive enough oxygen, resulting in symptoms like difficulty breathing, confusion, and bluish skin. On the flip side, alcohol increases nitrogen absorption, increasing the risk of decompression sickness, and resulting in symptoms such as dizziness, pain, and fatigue. In short, drinking shortly before diving is a recipe for danger, affecting both our body’s physical responses and the way we handle pressure changes underwater.
Roughly 1 to 6 hours after our last drink, blood alcohol levels start to drop as our liver works hard to break it down. Since the liver can only process about one standard drink per hour, alcohol can linger in our system for far longer than we realize, even when the initial buzz fades.
While the more apparent effects like feeling off-balance, euphoric, or disoriented may wear off, the subtler but equally dangerous aftereffects such as drowsiness, dehydration, and mental fog begin to creep in.
At this stage, even though we might feel more “sober,” our ability to properly manage our scuba equipment, respond to unexpected situations, navigate underwater environments, and follow safety protocols is still compromised. These lingering effects can reduce our ability to dive safely and respond to potential hazards underwater.
As our body processes more of the alcohol, about 6 to 12 hours after our last drink, the apparent effects of drinking like feeling tipsy and disoriented may fade.
That’s when hangover symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headache, and dehydration can start to kick in. Even if we crash quickly after a night of drinking, alcohol disrupts our normal sleep cycle. That’s why we might end up tossing and turning, waking up way too early, and still feeling exhausted, no matter how long we slept.
Even if we’re up early, we won’t exactly be ready to conquer the day. Lack of sleep and dehydration amplify hangover symptoms, making even simple tasks a challenge. Throw scuba diving into the mix, and those hangover symptoms can escalate, putting us at serious risk underwater.
By about 12 to 24 hours after our last drink, alcohol can still be detected in some tests such as blood and breath tests, even though we’ll likely start to feel normal again. Everyone metabolizes alcohol differently, however, and those of us who are more sensitive to alcohol may still feel lingering effects.
Even if the majority of the alcohol is gone, the remnants of a hangover — such as brain fog, low motivation, and general lethargy can persist, affecting our daily activities. Scuba diving demands full alertness and physical fitness, so any lingering effects of alcohol can seriously impact our safety. This is why drinking the night before diving is not recommended.
After 24 hours, most of the residual effects have most likely subsided. However, alcohol’s disruption of our sleep patterns and hydration levels might leave us still feeling off. For activities like scuba diving, which require optimal physical and mental performance, it’s crucial to listen to our body and gauge how we’re feeling.
To ensure a safer and more enjoyable diving experience, it’s best to wait at least 24 hours after our last drink. This helps minimize risks and enhances our overall diving safety.
From the initial effects that impair coordination to the lingering hangover symptoms that compromise our mental and physical state, the risks of drinking before diving are clear. With this in mind, it’s important to consider safer alternatives to prepare for a dive.
We can’t talk about drinking and diving without addressing the post-diving situation. We’ve talked about avoiding alcohol before scuba diving, but what about after? It’s best to wait at least a few hours after your dive, as alcohol can mask symptoms of decompression sickness even hours later. Heavy drinking should be avoided at all costs
Scuba diving is more than just a chance to explore the ocean — it’s an underwater adventure that takes us beyond a trip to the aquarium. With the help of specialized equipment, we can breathe underwater and explore the depths of the ocean. But this thrilling underwater experience comes with its own set of safety challenges because our body responds to the underwater environment and depth changes in unique ways.
Ever brought a bag of chips on an airplane and watched it puff up with the change in pressure? Something similar happens to our body when we dive, which is why preparing in advance and following safety guidelines are so important. Even though scuba diving certifications cover essential safety training or we’re diving with a certified instructor, it’s always good to brush up on the basics. Here are a few key tips:
Now that we’ve covered the basics of scuba diving safety, let’s dive into how drinking and diving go against these safety rules.
Before we reach for that pre-dive tropical cocktail, let’s explore some smarter ways to prepare for our underwater adventure — without the risks that come with alcohol. Consider these alternatives:
By swapping out alcohol for healthier alternatives, we’ll feel more energized, clearheaded, and ready to fully enjoy our scuba diving experience.
If you’re thinking about drinking before scuba diving, remember that the effects of alcohol linger long after the last drink. Just as a single misstep on land can lead to a tumble, a night of drinking before diving can compromise our safety underwater. Prioritize health and safety by steering clear of alcohol up to 24 hours before diving to ensure you’re ready to navigate the depths with clarity and confidence. Here’s to making every underwater adventure as thrilling as it is safe!
Hiking safety and alcohol don’t go together. Alcohol affects our judgment and impacts our mobility. Check out our latest blog for more info on how alcohol affects hiking.
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 hundreds 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!
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of reaching the peak of a challenging hike, surrounded by the beauty of nature. But before we add booze to our packing list, it’s important to consider how alcohol can affect our adventure. While it might be tempting to crack open a cold one while we’re sitting at the summit before heading back down, it’s best to avoid it. Drinking can create unexpected challenges while hiking.
From impairing our balance on rocky terrain to increasing dehydration, alcohol and hiking can turn our outdoor adventure into a risky endeavor. So before we lace up our boots and hit the trail, let’s further explore how alcohol and hiking aren’t a good mix, and what we can do instead to keep our trek safe and fun.
Hiking already comes with its fair share of risks, from unpredictable weather to tricky terrain, but mixing alcohol and outdoor adventure actually can increase the dangers. Drinking doesn’t only compromise our safety on the trail — it can also dull the outdoor experience. Here’s how alcohol can impact our hike.
Ever feel off-balance after one too many drinks? That’s because alcohol depresses our central nervous system (CNS), which is our body’s control system. Alcohol slows down messaging between our brain and body. On a hike, where steady footing is crucial, this delay increases our risk of tripping or falling, especially on uneven terrain.
Alcohol also slows down our reaction time. Not only does this slowdown make it harder to catch ourselves from stumbling, but it can also leave us less able to respond quickly in emergency situations. What was supposed to be an exhilarating adventure could become dangerous in a split second.
Alcohol acts as a diuretic, which means it increases urine production, leading to increased dehydration. Dehydration can impair our physical performance, reduce our endurance, and increase the risk of heat exhaustion.
Staying hydrated during a hike is crucial for maintaining energy, regulating body temperature, and ensuring we have the physical stamina to complete our hike safely.
Altitude sickness happens when our body struggles to properly adjust to changes in air pressure, and alcohol makes the symptoms worse.
Alcohol decreases oxygen absorption in the blood, and since there’s already less oxygen at a higher altitude, the effects are multiplied. Adding to the recipe for disaster, dehydration increases the risk of altitude sickness. When our body isn’t able to get enough oxygen and efficiently get rid of excess nitrogen, we can experience symptoms such as headache, nausea, and dizziness.
When we drink, alcohol can make us feel warmer because alcohol causes blood vessels near the skin to open up. However, this process actually decreases our core body temperature.
When alcohol slows our system down, our ability to produce sweat efficiently also goes down, impairing our ability to regulate temperature. When we’re hiking, especially treks that involve more strenuous activity and warmer weather, alcohol exacerbates heat stress, impacting our health and safety.
At first, alcohol can feel like an energy boost due to alcohol's stimulant effects, such as increasing our heart rate and releasing dopamine (the “reward/feel-good” hormone). But just like a steep uphill climb, alcohol’s boost doesn’t last. Once those initial effects wear off, we’ll be hit with alcohol’s depressant effects, leaving us with low energy, drowsiness, and low mood. Add dehydration to the mix, and the post-drinking fatigue can hit hard.
While alcohol might offer a brief energy lift, it ultimately leaves us more fatigued and less capable of handling the physical demands of a hike. We’re left more vulnerable to exhaustion and facing a prolonged recovery period.
Do you find yourself accidentally bumping into things after drinking? Alcohol affects our spatial awareness in many ways, making our vision blurry, reducing depth perception, and decreasing peripheral vision. Overall, alcohol makes it difficult for us to navigate the world around us.
Following the trail, interpreting maps, and recognizing landmarks becomes more challenging when we drink. Our reflexes and judgment are also compromised, putting us more at risk of danger from wild animals.
From the long list of alcohol’s effects, it’s clear that drinking only amplifies the risks of hiking, putting our health and safety at risk. Let's take a closer look at what we can look forward to when we take a pass on the alcohol.
Sober hiking allows us to enjoy the true essence of hiking — being out in nature. Here’s why choosing a sober adventure enhances our hiking experience:
Now that we have a clearer picture of all the positives that sober hiking can bring, let’s get into some better options we can choose from.
We’ve learned that drinking and outdoor activities don’t mix well, but just because we’re choosing our health and safety by avoiding alcohol, it doesn’t mean we can’t have a fun drink! Here are some options to inspire your own:
By choosing these alcohol-free alternatives, we can stay hydrated, energized, and fully enjoy the beauty of the trail without sacrificing fun or flavor.
We’ve established that we need to avoid drinking before or during hiking, but what about afterwards? The truth is, it’s still not a good idea. Drinking after a hike doesn’t involve immediate risks such as falls, but it does impact our sleep and recovery, both of which are important after strenuous physical activity.
As we prepare for our next trek, it’s important to recognize that alcohol and hiking aren’t great companions. The risks of dehydration, reduced coordination, and impaired judgment can turn a peaceful exploration into a dangerous endeavor. By keeping alcohol out of our backpacks, we’re free to fully experience all that hiking has to offer. So, next time you’re planning a hike, plan to hydrate healthily and embrace your outdoor adventure with steady steps and a clear mind!
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of reaching the peak of a challenging hike, surrounded by the beauty of nature. But before we add booze to our packing list, it’s important to consider how alcohol can affect our adventure. While it might be tempting to crack open a cold one while we’re sitting at the summit before heading back down, it’s best to avoid it. Drinking can create unexpected challenges while hiking.
From impairing our balance on rocky terrain to increasing dehydration, alcohol and hiking can turn our outdoor adventure into a risky endeavor. So before we lace up our boots and hit the trail, let’s further explore how alcohol and hiking aren’t a good mix, and what we can do instead to keep our trek safe and fun.
Hiking already comes with its fair share of risks, from unpredictable weather to tricky terrain, but mixing alcohol and outdoor adventure actually can increase the dangers. Drinking doesn’t only compromise our safety on the trail — it can also dull the outdoor experience. Here’s how alcohol can impact our hike.
Ever feel off-balance after one too many drinks? That’s because alcohol depresses our central nervous system (CNS), which is our body’s control system. Alcohol slows down messaging between our brain and body. On a hike, where steady footing is crucial, this delay increases our risk of tripping or falling, especially on uneven terrain.
Alcohol also slows down our reaction time. Not only does this slowdown make it harder to catch ourselves from stumbling, but it can also leave us less able to respond quickly in emergency situations. What was supposed to be an exhilarating adventure could become dangerous in a split second.
Alcohol acts as a diuretic, which means it increases urine production, leading to increased dehydration. Dehydration can impair our physical performance, reduce our endurance, and increase the risk of heat exhaustion.
Staying hydrated during a hike is crucial for maintaining energy, regulating body temperature, and ensuring we have the physical stamina to complete our hike safely.
Altitude sickness happens when our body struggles to properly adjust to changes in air pressure, and alcohol makes the symptoms worse.
Alcohol decreases oxygen absorption in the blood, and since there’s already less oxygen at a higher altitude, the effects are multiplied. Adding to the recipe for disaster, dehydration increases the risk of altitude sickness. When our body isn’t able to get enough oxygen and efficiently get rid of excess nitrogen, we can experience symptoms such as headache, nausea, and dizziness.
When we drink, alcohol can make us feel warmer because alcohol causes blood vessels near the skin to open up. However, this process actually decreases our core body temperature.
When alcohol slows our system down, our ability to produce sweat efficiently also goes down, impairing our ability to regulate temperature. When we’re hiking, especially treks that involve more strenuous activity and warmer weather, alcohol exacerbates heat stress, impacting our health and safety.
At first, alcohol can feel like an energy boost due to alcohol's stimulant effects, such as increasing our heart rate and releasing dopamine (the “reward/feel-good” hormone). But just like a steep uphill climb, alcohol’s boost doesn’t last. Once those initial effects wear off, we’ll be hit with alcohol’s depressant effects, leaving us with low energy, drowsiness, and low mood. Add dehydration to the mix, and the post-drinking fatigue can hit hard.
While alcohol might offer a brief energy lift, it ultimately leaves us more fatigued and less capable of handling the physical demands of a hike. We’re left more vulnerable to exhaustion and facing a prolonged recovery period.
Do you find yourself accidentally bumping into things after drinking? Alcohol affects our spatial awareness in many ways, making our vision blurry, reducing depth perception, and decreasing peripheral vision. Overall, alcohol makes it difficult for us to navigate the world around us.
Following the trail, interpreting maps, and recognizing landmarks becomes more challenging when we drink. Our reflexes and judgment are also compromised, putting us more at risk of danger from wild animals.
From the long list of alcohol’s effects, it’s clear that drinking only amplifies the risks of hiking, putting our health and safety at risk. Let's take a closer look at what we can look forward to when we take a pass on the alcohol.
Sober hiking allows us to enjoy the true essence of hiking — being out in nature. Here’s why choosing a sober adventure enhances our hiking experience:
Now that we have a clearer picture of all the positives that sober hiking can bring, let’s get into some better options we can choose from.
We’ve learned that drinking and outdoor activities don’t mix well, but just because we’re choosing our health and safety by avoiding alcohol, it doesn’t mean we can’t have a fun drink! Here are some options to inspire your own:
By choosing these alcohol-free alternatives, we can stay hydrated, energized, and fully enjoy the beauty of the trail without sacrificing fun or flavor.
We’ve established that we need to avoid drinking before or during hiking, but what about afterwards? The truth is, it’s still not a good idea. Drinking after a hike doesn’t involve immediate risks such as falls, but it does impact our sleep and recovery, both of which are important after strenuous physical activity.
As we prepare for our next trek, it’s important to recognize that alcohol and hiking aren’t great companions. The risks of dehydration, reduced coordination, and impaired judgment can turn a peaceful exploration into a dangerous endeavor. By keeping alcohol out of our backpacks, we’re free to fully experience all that hiking has to offer. So, next time you’re planning a hike, plan to hydrate healthily and embrace your outdoor adventure with steady steps and a clear mind!
Wouldn’t it be great if you could get high with no drugs? Well, you can! Read our latest blog to discover how to trigger the “high” effect naturally.
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 hundreds 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!
Imagine feeling on top of the world, full of energy and excitement about life. When you talk to your friends, the conversation flows, and those feel-good moments warm your heart. You go on a drive around the neighborhood, pointing out funny bumper stickers or playing the license plate game for old times' sake. You sit around with your family in the evening, playing Pictionary (how in the world do you draw a “bearded clam”?) and break open a bottle of . . . sparkling blackberry soda.
That’s right! There’s no need to bust open a bottle of wine, or to smoke, vape, crush, or snort anything to feel high or “buzzed.” Instead, there are plenty of different ways to “get high” without drugs or feel “drunk” without alcohol. Let’s explore some of our favorite natural ways to “get high” and look at some things to do instead of drinking. As we’ll see, some of these “natural highs” go above and beyond the chemical ones, allowing for more lasting pleasure and well-being.
(Note: While being “high” is usually associated with drug use, when it comes to neurochemical effects on neurotransmitters, alcohol acts in very similar ways. For this reason, we’ll use the term “high” to refer to the boost of dopamine and other neurotransmitters caused by all mood-altering substances.)
Why do drugs and alcohol make us feel “high” in the first place? It’s all about the brain. The brain governs the way we process reality. Learning a new language, falling in love, watching a solar eclipse, and remembering the taste of our grandmother’s apple pie all come down to the activity within the brain — the unassuming “three-pound mass of gray and white matter.”
So what happens when drugs and alcohol come into the picture? The pathways that have to do with feeling happiness and motivation get hijacked by a substance that causes an unnatural boost of pleasure and keeps us coming back to get the same effects. Let’s take a brief tour through the structures and pathways that are involved.
The problem? Over time the brain gets used to the “free” dopamine surge, which becomes the new normal. We stop looking for natural ways to feel good and develop a dependence on our substance of choice, raising our intake levels over time as our system gets used to the effects. None of this ends well — addiction is the inevitable result, leading to withdrawal symptoms if we stop.
Dependence and withdrawal aren’t the end of the story, either. According to NIDA, drugs and alcohol can lead to a host of additional health problems, including cancer from alcohol and tobacco smoke, dental and heart problems from methamphetamine use, as well as potentially lethal overdose. Many drugs (including alcohol) also damage the brain.
Besides, the “high” itself is all an illusion — what we feel when we use substances isn’t authentic joy. We might “feel good” at the moment, but the high inevitably fades, leaving us worse off than before. Time to look into alternatives!
Are natural highs possible? Absolutely! Remember, our brain is designed to feel good. The dopamine system evolved to encourage activities that create a “high with no drugs,” so it’s just a matter of tapping into its natural abilities. While it’s true that the “high” we might get through some of these activities isn’t the intense, all-encompassing one we get from mind-altering substances, it’s deeply profound and ultimately more sustainable and rewarding.
There are plenty of ways to trigger dopamine release naturally. Here are some natural ways to “get high” that may just prove to be better (not to mention healthier) than any substances that damage our health and leave us wanting more in the long run.
Now, before you get scared away or feel tempted to curl up in that comfy chair and watch another season of Love Island, bear with us. It’ll be worth it!
Cardiovascular activities such as running, swimming, biking, doing aerobics, or even dancing to our favorite tunes in the living room have a host of benefits for our health. But did you know that in addition to boosting our heart health, strengthening our immune system, and decelerating cellular aging, it’s scientifically proven to make us feel good, rivaling the effects of antidepressant drugs? Let’s dig into the details.
Back in the ‘90s, studies from the University of Jerusalem proved that endocannabinoids have the power to help us cope with anxiety and stress while reducing pain and providing a “natural high.” Scientific American’s Ulrich Craft sums it up: “Chemically speaking, we are all potheads.”
Tip: Start with an activity that feels like fun. No need to sign up for a marathon (or even join a gym) if that’s not your thing. There are plenty of online videos to tune into for a great workout. Try Popsugar Fitness or Fitness Blender for a little bit of everything. Or, if you’re feeling like getting some intense feelings out, try kickboxing with Jessica Smith and her husband Guillermo Gomez from Martial Fusion.
Want a more mellow, soulful “natural high”? Try some acts of kindness. Research shows that performing sincere favors (both big and small) can create a measurable mood-boosting effect that goes beyond the “high” that substances provide.
Here’s how Nigel Mathers defines kindness in his British Journal of General Practice article:
“Kindness, therefore, is not an ‘optional extra’ only to be deployed when we have sufficient time and energy, nor
should it be instrumental in achieving another purpose
such as meeting targets. Kindness should be central to our engagement with others (for example, in the consultation) because it is central to healing.”
In other words, kindness is intentional. It involves conscious action on our part, whether that means doing a favor for someone, speaking in a way that shows empathy, or simply being there to listen.
As far as the brain is concerned, helping others leads to measurable changes in activity in the posterior superior temporal cortex. As Mathers reports, kindness also boosts the release of endorphins and oxytocin while encouraging the formation of new neural connections. That’s right — being kind helps physically “build” our brain.
Even better news? Kindness and altruism tend to be “self-authenticating.” The more acts of kindness we perform, the better we feel, all the while expanding and strengthening the neurological wiring that makes us more likely to do it in the future. (In fact, functional magnetic resonance images show that even thinking about kindness actively soothes the emotional center of the brain and lifts depression.) Talk about spreading the love!
Tip: Acts of kindness don’t have to be grand. Think of someone you cross paths with every day and do them a favor. Maybe it’s giving the concierge in your building a gift card to thank her for her hard work. Maybe it’s making an extra Zoom call to your grandmother this weekend or catching up with the aunt who lives alone and hasn’t had a chance to visit in a while. Or try volunteering at your local homeless shelter, food bank, or senior center!
Another great way to get high with no drugs? Get creative! Let’s take a look at what’s going on in the “creative brain.”
One of the best things about tapping into the joy of creativity is that we don’t have to be a professional (or even amateur) artist, writer, or musician to do it. We simply have to be curious about the world around us and take time to pause and engage with ideas, images, or sounds that spark our imagination in a playful way.
Here’s how film director and screenwriter Jim Jarmusch describes the creative process:
“Nothing is original. Steal from anywhere that resonates with inspiration or fuels your imagination. Devour old films, new films, music, books, paintings, photographs, poems, dreams, random conversations, architecture, bridges, street signs, trees, clouds, bodies of water, light and shadows. Select only things to steal from that speak directly to your soul. If you do this, your work (and theft) will be authentic … In any case, always remember what Jean-Luc Godard said: ‘It’s not where you take things from — it’s where you take them to.’”
Tip: Take Jarmusch’s advice and start by engaging with something in your environment — a photograph, a book that you’ve been meaning to read, or a gallery down the street. Anything that sparks your interest will do. Then see if you can take that spark further and create something with it. It could be a journal entry, a photo collage, or a playlist of songs inspired by your experience. Let it flow!
In our pursuit of happiness and external sources of pleasure, it can be easy to fall into the trap of thinking that we need to add “stuff” to our lives to bring us joy. Nothing could be further from the truth! Sometimes the only “stuff” we need is found right outside our window.
Science says that being outdoors can serve as a natural high by boosting levels of serotonin — another neurotransmitter associated with well-being. Being outdoors can also regulate our mood, lower appetite, and provide a natural sense of bliss.
Bright light in particular can trigger the release of dopamine, providing natural relief for depression.
Tip: Make time in your day to go outside (preferably when the sun is still out). It doesn’t matter if you live in the city — a park or even an apartment courtyard will do. As long as there’s a tree or two, some grass, and a sky with clouds to gaze up at, you can tap into the natural dopamine-boosting power of the outdoors.
Last but not least, we have the simplest “natural high” of all — laughter!
Ever heard of laughter yoga? It can be an odd sight at first: a bunch of people standing in a circle, usually in a park. Then, one of them lets out a belly laugh and others join in. Is there a joke we’re missing? What in the world is so funny? It turns out it’s simply an exercise. But chances are, if we try it, we’ll catch the “laughing bug” as well. (Remember how easy it was to catch the “giggles” in high school when a friend would pass a funny note in the middle of biology class?)
As adults, we can get out of touch with our natural impulse to laugh at funny moments in life. But in fact, there’s “serious” science behind laughter therapy that says it benefits us! Having a good laugh is yet another great way to release dopamine and endorphins, promoting a natural high.
Tip: Add some good laughs to your day by watching a comedy — sitcom, stand-up routine, movie, or even a funny video of animals jumping on trampolines. Better yet, make a night out of it and invite some friends to join in. Spending quality time with others is another science-backed way to boost dopamine naturally, so you’ll get double the “natural high.”
Natural ways to get high are all about engaging with life rather than “checking out” of it. They’re about authentic interactions, activities we enjoy, and ways to enhance our health and well-being. They’re also about building skills and memories that will last a lifetime and make life more fulfilling.
As we mentioned at the beginning, this “high” is qualitatively different from that delivered by drugs and alcohol. It won’t make you forget your name, throw caution to the wind, and decide to travel across the country on a whim. But isn’t that ultimately a good thing? After all, natural highs provide something that chemical ones can’t even come close to: authentic connections, experiences to remember and treasure, tangible accomplishments to be proud of, and rewards that last for days, months, and even years instead of mere hours or minutes.
Let’s harness the power of getting “high” without drugs and take advantage of everything life has to offer!
Imagine feeling on top of the world, full of energy and excitement about life. When you talk to your friends, the conversation flows, and those feel-good moments warm your heart. You go on a drive around the neighborhood, pointing out funny bumper stickers or playing the license plate game for old times' sake. You sit around with your family in the evening, playing Pictionary (how in the world do you draw a “bearded clam”?) and break open a bottle of . . . sparkling blackberry soda.
That’s right! There’s no need to bust open a bottle of wine, or to smoke, vape, crush, or snort anything to feel high or “buzzed.” Instead, there are plenty of different ways to “get high” without drugs or feel “drunk” without alcohol. Let’s explore some of our favorite natural ways to “get high” and look at some things to do instead of drinking. As we’ll see, some of these “natural highs” go above and beyond the chemical ones, allowing for more lasting pleasure and well-being.
(Note: While being “high” is usually associated with drug use, when it comes to neurochemical effects on neurotransmitters, alcohol acts in very similar ways. For this reason, we’ll use the term “high” to refer to the boost of dopamine and other neurotransmitters caused by all mood-altering substances.)
Why do drugs and alcohol make us feel “high” in the first place? It’s all about the brain. The brain governs the way we process reality. Learning a new language, falling in love, watching a solar eclipse, and remembering the taste of our grandmother’s apple pie all come down to the activity within the brain — the unassuming “three-pound mass of gray and white matter.”
So what happens when drugs and alcohol come into the picture? The pathways that have to do with feeling happiness and motivation get hijacked by a substance that causes an unnatural boost of pleasure and keeps us coming back to get the same effects. Let’s take a brief tour through the structures and pathways that are involved.
The problem? Over time the brain gets used to the “free” dopamine surge, which becomes the new normal. We stop looking for natural ways to feel good and develop a dependence on our substance of choice, raising our intake levels over time as our system gets used to the effects. None of this ends well — addiction is the inevitable result, leading to withdrawal symptoms if we stop.
Dependence and withdrawal aren’t the end of the story, either. According to NIDA, drugs and alcohol can lead to a host of additional health problems, including cancer from alcohol and tobacco smoke, dental and heart problems from methamphetamine use, as well as potentially lethal overdose. Many drugs (including alcohol) also damage the brain.
Besides, the “high” itself is all an illusion — what we feel when we use substances isn’t authentic joy. We might “feel good” at the moment, but the high inevitably fades, leaving us worse off than before. Time to look into alternatives!
Are natural highs possible? Absolutely! Remember, our brain is designed to feel good. The dopamine system evolved to encourage activities that create a “high with no drugs,” so it’s just a matter of tapping into its natural abilities. While it’s true that the “high” we might get through some of these activities isn’t the intense, all-encompassing one we get from mind-altering substances, it’s deeply profound and ultimately more sustainable and rewarding.
There are plenty of ways to trigger dopamine release naturally. Here are some natural ways to “get high” that may just prove to be better (not to mention healthier) than any substances that damage our health and leave us wanting more in the long run.
Now, before you get scared away or feel tempted to curl up in that comfy chair and watch another season of Love Island, bear with us. It’ll be worth it!
Cardiovascular activities such as running, swimming, biking, doing aerobics, or even dancing to our favorite tunes in the living room have a host of benefits for our health. But did you know that in addition to boosting our heart health, strengthening our immune system, and decelerating cellular aging, it’s scientifically proven to make us feel good, rivaling the effects of antidepressant drugs? Let’s dig into the details.
Back in the ‘90s, studies from the University of Jerusalem proved that endocannabinoids have the power to help us cope with anxiety and stress while reducing pain and providing a “natural high.” Scientific American’s Ulrich Craft sums it up: “Chemically speaking, we are all potheads.”
Tip: Start with an activity that feels like fun. No need to sign up for a marathon (or even join a gym) if that’s not your thing. There are plenty of online videos to tune into for a great workout. Try Popsugar Fitness or Fitness Blender for a little bit of everything. Or, if you’re feeling like getting some intense feelings out, try kickboxing with Jessica Smith and her husband Guillermo Gomez from Martial Fusion.
Want a more mellow, soulful “natural high”? Try some acts of kindness. Research shows that performing sincere favors (both big and small) can create a measurable mood-boosting effect that goes beyond the “high” that substances provide.
Here’s how Nigel Mathers defines kindness in his British Journal of General Practice article:
“Kindness, therefore, is not an ‘optional extra’ only to be deployed when we have sufficient time and energy, nor
should it be instrumental in achieving another purpose
such as meeting targets. Kindness should be central to our engagement with others (for example, in the consultation) because it is central to healing.”
In other words, kindness is intentional. It involves conscious action on our part, whether that means doing a favor for someone, speaking in a way that shows empathy, or simply being there to listen.
As far as the brain is concerned, helping others leads to measurable changes in activity in the posterior superior temporal cortex. As Mathers reports, kindness also boosts the release of endorphins and oxytocin while encouraging the formation of new neural connections. That’s right — being kind helps physically “build” our brain.
Even better news? Kindness and altruism tend to be “self-authenticating.” The more acts of kindness we perform, the better we feel, all the while expanding and strengthening the neurological wiring that makes us more likely to do it in the future. (In fact, functional magnetic resonance images show that even thinking about kindness actively soothes the emotional center of the brain and lifts depression.) Talk about spreading the love!
Tip: Acts of kindness don’t have to be grand. Think of someone you cross paths with every day and do them a favor. Maybe it’s giving the concierge in your building a gift card to thank her for her hard work. Maybe it’s making an extra Zoom call to your grandmother this weekend or catching up with the aunt who lives alone and hasn’t had a chance to visit in a while. Or try volunteering at your local homeless shelter, food bank, or senior center!
Another great way to get high with no drugs? Get creative! Let’s take a look at what’s going on in the “creative brain.”
One of the best things about tapping into the joy of creativity is that we don’t have to be a professional (or even amateur) artist, writer, or musician to do it. We simply have to be curious about the world around us and take time to pause and engage with ideas, images, or sounds that spark our imagination in a playful way.
Here’s how film director and screenwriter Jim Jarmusch describes the creative process:
“Nothing is original. Steal from anywhere that resonates with inspiration or fuels your imagination. Devour old films, new films, music, books, paintings, photographs, poems, dreams, random conversations, architecture, bridges, street signs, trees, clouds, bodies of water, light and shadows. Select only things to steal from that speak directly to your soul. If you do this, your work (and theft) will be authentic … In any case, always remember what Jean-Luc Godard said: ‘It’s not where you take things from — it’s where you take them to.’”
Tip: Take Jarmusch’s advice and start by engaging with something in your environment — a photograph, a book that you’ve been meaning to read, or a gallery down the street. Anything that sparks your interest will do. Then see if you can take that spark further and create something with it. It could be a journal entry, a photo collage, or a playlist of songs inspired by your experience. Let it flow!
In our pursuit of happiness and external sources of pleasure, it can be easy to fall into the trap of thinking that we need to add “stuff” to our lives to bring us joy. Nothing could be further from the truth! Sometimes the only “stuff” we need is found right outside our window.
Science says that being outdoors can serve as a natural high by boosting levels of serotonin — another neurotransmitter associated with well-being. Being outdoors can also regulate our mood, lower appetite, and provide a natural sense of bliss.
Bright light in particular can trigger the release of dopamine, providing natural relief for depression.
Tip: Make time in your day to go outside (preferably when the sun is still out). It doesn’t matter if you live in the city — a park or even an apartment courtyard will do. As long as there’s a tree or two, some grass, and a sky with clouds to gaze up at, you can tap into the natural dopamine-boosting power of the outdoors.
Last but not least, we have the simplest “natural high” of all — laughter!
Ever heard of laughter yoga? It can be an odd sight at first: a bunch of people standing in a circle, usually in a park. Then, one of them lets out a belly laugh and others join in. Is there a joke we’re missing? What in the world is so funny? It turns out it’s simply an exercise. But chances are, if we try it, we’ll catch the “laughing bug” as well. (Remember how easy it was to catch the “giggles” in high school when a friend would pass a funny note in the middle of biology class?)
As adults, we can get out of touch with our natural impulse to laugh at funny moments in life. But in fact, there’s “serious” science behind laughter therapy that says it benefits us! Having a good laugh is yet another great way to release dopamine and endorphins, promoting a natural high.
Tip: Add some good laughs to your day by watching a comedy — sitcom, stand-up routine, movie, or even a funny video of animals jumping on trampolines. Better yet, make a night out of it and invite some friends to join in. Spending quality time with others is another science-backed way to boost dopamine naturally, so you’ll get double the “natural high.”
Natural ways to get high are all about engaging with life rather than “checking out” of it. They’re about authentic interactions, activities we enjoy, and ways to enhance our health and well-being. They’re also about building skills and memories that will last a lifetime and make life more fulfilling.
As we mentioned at the beginning, this “high” is qualitatively different from that delivered by drugs and alcohol. It won’t make you forget your name, throw caution to the wind, and decide to travel across the country on a whim. But isn’t that ultimately a good thing? After all, natural highs provide something that chemical ones can’t even come close to: authentic connections, experiences to remember and treasure, tangible accomplishments to be proud of, and rewards that last for days, months, and even years instead of mere hours or minutes.
Let’s harness the power of getting “high” without drugs and take advantage of everything life has to offer!
