"I'LL HAVE WHAT SHE'S HAVING" .... SURPRISING BEAUTY BENEFITS WHEN YOU DITCH THE BOOZE
It’s true; ditching the booze gives you a better body and skin. But let’s be honest, it also makes you feel and look better than ever.
According to midlife sobriety coach Belinda Stark, one of the less-talked-about perks of ditching alcohol? The vanity benefits.
“Remember that famous When Harry Met Sally scene where Meg Ryan fakes an orgasm in a café, and a woman nearby says, “I’ll have what she’s having”? In my early days of sobriety, I had my own version of that moment. Only this time, the compliments were real, and so were the changes..” says Belinda.
According to Belinda, her friends kept asking, “What have you done? You look amazing!” Some even joked, “Did you get work done?” The answer was no. No cosmetic tweaks, no expensive treatments, just a lot of inner work and the decision to stop drinking.
So, what happens to your body and skin when you cut out alcohol? Here’s Belinda’s breakdown:
Body Benefits
Less Puffiness and Bloating: Alcohol causes inflammation and water retention, especially around the face and stomach. Cutting it out leads to a leaner, more defined look.
Better Sleep, Brighter Eyes: Alcohol disrupts sleep cycles, leaving you tired and drained. Without it, sleep improves dramatically, making mornings easier and reducing under-eye bags.
More Energy and Fitness Motivation: Alcohol depletes energy and slows recovery. Removing it naturally increases motivation to exercise, leading to better strength, tone, and endurance.
Sharper Mind, Stronger Memory: Brain fog lifts when alcohol is out of the picture. Concentration improves, memory becomes sharper, and overall mental clarity increases.
Better Digestion and Gut Health: Alcohol can irritate the stomach lining and cause bloating. Once removed, digestion improves, leading to less discomfort and better nutrient absorption.
More Fulfilling Intimacy: Alcohol numbs sensations, affecting connection and pleasure. Sobriety allows for more presence, deeper emotional connection, and an overall better experience.
Skin and Hair Perks
Hydrated, Radiant Skin: Alcohol dehydrates the skin, leading to dryness and dullness. Without it, the skin retains moisture, appears fresher, and has a natural glow.
Fewer Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Since alcohol accelerates ageing by reducing collagen production, quitting it helps the skin stay firmer, reducing the appearance of fine lines over time.
Clearer Complexion: Alcohol increases inflammation and affects hormone balance, leading to breakouts and redness. Many people notice smoother, healthier skin after quitting.
Brighter, More Vibrant Eyes: Bloodshot or dull eyes are often a side effect of drinking. Once alcohol is eliminated, the whites of the eyes become clearer, making them appear brighter and more awake.
Stronger, Shinier Hair: Alcohol depletes key nutrients needed for healthy hair. When drinking stops, hair becomes thicker, shinier, and less prone to breakage.
Belinda Stark is an advocate for sobriety and a midlife coach. You can find more about her here https://www.belindastark.com/
