Forbes Health adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved or otherwise endorsed by our advertisers. If you tend to drink too much whenever there is any alcohol in the house, get rid of it altogether, the NIAAA recommends. Food can absorb the alcohol in beverages, so eating before or even while you drink can dampen the effect and may make you want to drink less, says Crews. You might reach for alcohol when you’re really just thirsty, says Crews.
The person with the drinking problem needs to take responsibility for their actions. Don’t lie or cover things up to protect someone from the consequences of their drinking. Consider staging a family https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/can-you-gain-weight-because-of-alcohol/ meeting or an intervention, but don’t put yourself in a dangerous situation. Research the kinds of treatment that are available and discuss these options with your friend or family member.
More in Addiction
It may also mess with your sleep, and poor sleep hygiene can lead to further health concerns, like obesity and diabetes. Knowing all the negative effects alcohol has on your physical and mental health can make it easier to understand why you’re better off without it. Belinda Gordon-Battle is a licensed clinical therapist and life consultant based in Miami while providing therapeutic services across the globe. BGB, as her clients and colleagues call her, is an advocate of “removing the stigma” and normalizing the therapeutic process. She incorporates cultural relevance and non-traditional interventions and strategies to strengthen her clients’ steps towards goals of behavioral, emotional, social and mental wellness. Talk therapy is an important part of treatment for alcohol use disorder, but Dr. Streem says just about anyone who is making a life change, like quitting drinking, can benefit from therapy.
- Some claim that it has more benefits when taken on an empty stomach.
- For personal advice, please consult with a medical professional.
- They are prescribed by a primary care physician or other health professional and may be used alone or in combination with counseling.
- Recovery can take a long time, so you may need ongoing treatment.
- If you experience symptoms of DT, such as confusion, disorientation, hallucinations, or delusions, seek medical attention immediately.
Secular Organizations for Sobriety offers an alternative path to the faith-based 12-step model. The groups that operate within the framework welcome anyone looking to find a path to sobriety, including those who are religious. WFS offers both in-person and online support groups (although in-person offerings can be sparse outside urban areas). You may find it helpful to look for mutual support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous and other groups, where you can connect with people who share experiences similar to yours. A support group specifically focused on alcohol recovery can provide valuable encouragement and information that can aid you on your road to being free from alcohol. In a large-scale study of alcohol treatment methods, researchers found that a combination of medical management, medication, and cognitive-behavioral interventions was most effective.
Talk about it
Detox doesn’t treat addiction, which is a disease characterized by compulsive behaviors, such as chronic alcohol use. If you’re simply looking to speak to someone on the phone or chat online for more advice on your own or someone else’s drinking, get in touch with Drinkchat or Drinkline. Whatever your reason, the good news is that anyone can stop drinking. And if you’re thinking about removing alcohol from your life, you’re not alone. Understanding the available treatment options—from behavioral therapies and medications to mutual-support groups—is the first step.
Keep in mind that fruit juice and kombucha may be high in sugar. Remove all alcohol from your home or ask a friend or family member to do it for you. This includes beer, wine, and liquor, as well as products that contain alcohol such as rubbing alcohol and vanilla extract. A person may require intravenous (IV) rehydration fluids to correct any electrolyte imbalances. Some people may also need supplements such as folate, multivitamin, thiamine, and dextrose. However, deep reflection may help uncover where internal triggers arise.
Know When to Stop Drinking Alcohol
And some people become nauseated when taking it on an empty stomach. So, again, consult with your healthcare provider about the best timing for you. Amy Shapiro MS, RD, CDN, has been the founder and director How to Stop Drinking of Real Nutrition, an NYC-based private practice, for over 15 years. She is dedicated to healthfully and successfully guiding clients to their optimal nutrition, weight, and overall wellness.
