5 Reasons to Rethink the Drink

Is alcohol sabotaging your health and weight loss?

Today, we're addressing a topic that significantly impacts women's well-being: alcohol consumption.

It's a topic that we talk a lot about in Momentum

At a population level, men drink more than women. However, research indicates that women are more likely than men to experience negative consequences from a given level of alcohol consumption. Neurochemical, hormonal, genetic and environmental factors result in significant differences in the ways in which women's bodies absorb, distribute and metabolise alcohol.

Now for most people, it doesn't have to be all or nothing. Simply reducing the number of days you consume alcohol and the number of drinks each time can be enough.

Here are 5 compelling reasons why reducing your alcohol intake can be a game-changer for your health:

#1 - Lower Breast Cancer

Alcohol consumption is a known risk factor for breast cancer. By cutting back, you're taking a proactive step in protecting your health:

• Even moderate drinking increases breast cancer risk
• The risk rises with each additional drink per day
• Reducing intake can lower your overall cancer risk

Your future self will thank you for making this positive change.

#2 - Easier Weight Management

If you're struggling with stubborn weight gain, alcohol might be the culprit:

• Alcoholic drinks are often high in fuel but devoid of nutrients
• Alcohol can increase appetite and lead to overeating
• Alcohol contributes to fatty liver and can worsen insulin resistance

Remember excessive insulin is the driver of excess stored body fat.

#3 - Reduced Dementia Risk

Protecting your cognitive health is crucial, and reducing alcohol can play a significant role:

• Consistent drinking is linked to an increased risk of dementia
• Alcohol can damage brain cells and lead to cognitive decline
• Cutting back supports long-term brain health

By drinking less now, you're investing in a sharper, more vibrant future.

#4 - Read Hot Flushes

For women experiencing menopause, alcohol can exacerbate symptoms:

• Alcohol consumption can trigger or worsen hot flushes
• Reducing intake may lead to fewer and less intense hot flashes
• Better overall management of menopausal symptoms

Do an audit- Does a glass of wine or 2 trigger your night sweats?

#5 - Improved Sleep Quality

Quality sleep is essential for overall health, and alcohol can significantly disrupt it:

• Alcohol interferes with your sleep cycle, particularly REM sleep
• Reducing intake can lead to more restful, uninterrupted nights
• Better sleep contributes to improved mood, energy, and skin health

Picture waking up feeling refreshed, energised, and ready to conquer your day.

Remember, small changes can lead to significant improvements in your health and well-being.

If you're looking to reduce your alcohol intake, start by setting realistic goals and gradually decreasing your consumption. Your body and mind will thank you for it.

Practical steps to reduce intake:

• Implement alcohol-free days
• Set weekly consumption limits
• Choose non-alcoholic low sugar alternatives like lime and soda water or kombucha 

And if you want more support in making healthy changes stick? Hypnosis might be your missing link.

We have a hypnosis package specially designed to help you reduce alcohol with ease.

You can find out more here.
 

With love and great health

Dr Lucy and Dr Mary XX

Dr Mary Barson and Dr Lucy are the founders of Real Life Medicine. They help women who have been on every diet under the sun, optimise their health and achieve long lasting weight loss without feeling miserable or deprived.

They do this with their 3 step framework that

• Improves metabolism
• Develops mindset skills
• Provides tools to implement it easily into busy lives

With this comes increased energy, vitality and confidence.

You can avoid chronic disease and stop living life on the sidelines!