The benefits of drinking less alcohol during the change in seasons

The change of seasons serves as a reminder that the holidays are just around the corner. During this period, alcohol consumption often increases, with celebrations like Halloween, Bonfire Night, Christmas, and New Year's Eve providing ample occasions to raise a glass. However, there are significant advantages to drinking less alcohol as the seasons shift. Here are seven key reasons to consider reducing your intake.

1. Improved mood

Alcohol affects brain chemicals like GABA, a neurotransmitter with calming effects. Heavy drinking lowers GABA levels, which can lead to heightened anxiety and stress. By cutting back, you'll experience more stable emotions, which can improve your overall well-being. A better mood will inspire healthier lifestyle choices, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet.

2. Better sleep

Drinking alcohol disrupts your sleep cycle. Just one drink can reduce sleep quality by 9.3% in women, while drinking more can decrease it by as much as 39.2%. Alcohol consumption contributes to sleep disorders like insomnia and sleep apnoea and disrupts your circadian rhythm. Drinking less will promote restorative sleep, leaving you feeling energised and refreshed.

3. Maintained hydration

Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it causes your body to lose fluids, leading to dehydration. This not only affects your physical health but also your cognitive function, slowing brain performance by up to 15%. Drinking less allows your body to maintain proper hydration levels, improving concentration, memory, and overall mental sharpness.

4. Reduced inflammation

While alcohol may not come with a poison label, it contains substances that can harm your organs and tissues, triggering inflammation in your body. This is especially harmful if you're prone to chronic infections. By reducing your alcohol intake, you lower your body's inflammation markers, helping to prevent illness and improve long-term health.

5. Stronger immune system

Alcohol weakens the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections. For instance, it impairs the immune cells in your lungs, which increases your risk of severe illnesses. Reducing alcohol consumption allows your body to defend itself more effectively, especially during the colder months when illnesses like colds and flu are more prevalent.

6. Lower risk of depression

The darker, colder months often bring about seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression triggered by reduced exposure to sunlight. Alcohol can exacerbate feelings of sadness and fatigue, making symptoms worse. Drinking less can help maintain a clear, healthy headspace during this time and make it easier to cope with seasonal mood changes.

7. Healthier relationships

Excessive drinking can impair judgement, leading to impulsive or aggressive behaviour. Statistics show that alcohol plays a role in many incidents of violence and domestic abuse. By cutting back on alcohol, you'll maintain better control over your actions and communication, improving your relationships during social gatherings and beyond.

Enjoy the season with less drinking

Embrace the festive season with a mindful approach to drinking. Limiting alcohol to just one or two drinks — or opting out altogether — will benefit your mental and physical health. With these positive lifestyle choices, you can enjoy the holidays without compromising your well-being.

Written by Cora Gold

Cora is a wellness writer and editor of women’s lifestyle magazine, Revivalist. Along with tips for health and happiness, Cora loves writing about party planning. Follow Cora on Pinterest, LinkedIn and Twitter.