Week 7 – Alcohol Lied to Me
Welcome to Week 7, it’s a big one this week. I’m taking a major step by removing alcohol for 12 months, a habit I have delayed addressing. I have already eliminated five inflammatory foods (sugar, coffee, gluten, dairy, and preservatives), and now it’s time to confront the one habit that I truly enjoy. My dad used to say “I don’t drink for the effects I drink because I love it.” The apple didn’t fall far from the tree with me that’s for sure. However, If I am serious about reducing inflammation and creating a healthier body, I can’t ignore alcohol any longer.
I have always had the biggest FOMO when it comes to social drinking. I love to be the first to arrive and the last to leave, and in those moments, one drink can easily turn into ten leaving me with blurred memories. I want to learn how to enjoy social occasions without relying on alcohol, to confidently say no and navigate our prevalent drinking culture without feeling left out.
For years, I have used alcohol as a coping mechanism, drinking a bottle or two of wine a night to manage stress and to fit into Australia’s deeply ingrained social drinking culture. But here’s the truth: alcohol is toxic. Beyond its reputation as a social lubricant, alcohol contributes significantly to inflammation. It forces the liver and endocrine system to work overtime, producing stress hormones like cortisol and a host of toxic byproducts that accumulate in our bodies. Every time I reach for that drink, I am inviting more toxins into my system, which can lead to chronic inflammation, disrupted sleep, and even brain fog.
My husband gave up alcohol over 7 years ago, and the one book that helped him get through that first year was Craig Beck’s Alcohol Lied to Me. So, I downloaded it, and it is a book I would recommend if you are thinking of removing alcohol or reducing it from your life. Craig exposes the harsh reality behind the glass. He explains that the so called “relaxation” we feel from alcohol isn’t genuine pleasure at all, it’s merely our body momentarily easing the early stages of withdrawal. In other words, our system is constantly battling the toxic effects of alcohol, even when we’re just trying to unwind. This perspective has been a major wake up call for me, challenging the idea that a nightly drink is harmless fun.
Research shows that even moderate alcohol consumption can elevate inflammatory markers in the blood over time. This cumulative toxin load not only damages our physical health, disrupting sleep, impairing cognitive function, and upsetting our hormonal balance but also undermines our emotional well-being. I am currently diving into research on how these toxins affect the body, and it all comes down to one simple question: “Do I even care enough about my future ?” or “What’s more important” At 51, the choices I make now are vastly different from those I made in my 20s, 30s, or even in my 40s. I am seeing and feeling the effect of age now and if I want my future self to be vibrant than I need to make better decisions today.
The good news is that I’ve already broken my daily bottle of wine habit, and that’s a huge win. Last year, when I hit a low point in my health, I had to stop drinking altogether. Now that I’m on the mend, I enjoy the ritual of a drink, and quickly realise I simply can’t handle it like I used to. I have been asking myself, “Do I drink because of stress? Out of habit? Or just because I fear missing out?” I’m hopeful that the answers will become clearer as I face upcoming social events that will challenge my decisions.
So, here’s to Week 7: a 12 month, alcohol free commitment. This journey is not just about health, it’s about changing habits. Reconnection with my body, resetting and rebuilding my health, and transform my world into a lifestyle that truly nourishes me from the inside out. I know this journey won’t be easy I am human, after all but I’m ready to face this challenge. I will keep you updated as I navigate this bold step, sharing every win, every struggle, and every lesson along the way.
