A bearded man enjoying a glass of whiskey
Alcohol and Health

10 Healthy Things That Happen When You Stop Drinking for 30 Days

Published:
June 2, 2023
·
10 min read
Reframe App LogoReframe App Logo
Written by
Reframe Content Team
A team of researchers and psychologists who specialize in behavioral health and neuroscience. This group collaborates to produce insightful and evidence-based content.
June 2, 2023
·
10 min read
Reframe App LogoReframe App Logo
Certified recovery coach specialized in helping everyone redefine their relationship with alcohol. His approach in coaching focuses on habit formation and addressing the stress in our lives.
June 2, 2023
·
10 min read
Reframe App LogoReframe App Logo
Recognized by Fortune and Fast Company as a top innovator shaping the future of health and known for his pivotal role in helping individuals change their relationship with alcohol.
June 2, 2023
·
10 min read
Reframe App LogoReframe App Logo
Reframe Content Team
June 2, 2023
·
10 min read

Are you considering taking a break from alcohol consumption, or maybe you've already started your "dry" journey? If so, you're making a great decision for your overall health and well-being! There are many physical and mental benefits of abstaining from alcohol, even if it's just for a short period of time like 30 days. In this article, we'll explore 10 healthy things that happen when you stop drinking for a month, delving into greater detail on how these advantages can positively impact various aspects of your life.

1. Improved Sleep Quality

One of the first things you're likely to notice when you quit drinking is improved sleep quality. Alcohol is a well-known disruptor of sleep patterns, preventing you from getting a full night of restful sleep. Alcohol-induced sleep tends to be lighter and less restorative, with frequent waking throughout the night.

When you stop drinking, your body is better able to regulate its sleep cycles, which in turn helps you reap the benefits of deep, quality sleep. Better sleep means increased energy, improved concentration, and a more positive mood. You're likely to find that you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day ahead, rather than struggling with grogginess or fatigue.

2. Enhanced Mental Clarity and Focus

Alcohol impairs cognitive function and decreases mental clarity by interfering with the balance of neurotransmitters in your brain. When you're hungover, it's common to feel foggy and have difficulty concentrating. Over time, regular alcohol consumption can even have long-term negative effects on your mental health like making anxiety and depression even worse.

By cutting out alcohol for 30 days, you may notice significantly improved mental function, focus, and memory. This newfound clarity can help you in all aspects of your life, including work performance, decision-making, and building stronger relationships.

3. Increased Energy Levels

Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it can lead to dehydration and essential nutrient depletion, leaving you feeling sluggish and fatigued. By eliminating alcohol from your system, you'll likely experience increased energy levels.

With this newfound energy, you may find it easier to be more productive and active throughout the day. This, in turn, can lead to a more satisfying and well-rounded lifestyle that supports your overall health and well-being.

4. Reduction in Calorie Intake

One of the more immediate benefits of quitting alcohol is a reduction in calorie intake. Alcohol is full of empty calories, meaning it contains no essential nutrients even though it still contributes to your daily caloric intake. For example, a single 12-ounce beer can contain as many as 150 calories, while a 5-ounce glass of wine can have anywhere from 100-150 calories. Add those up and think how many thousands of calories you’ll save in a month!

By eliminating alcohol consumption for 30 days, you can easily reduce your overall calorie intake, which may lead to weight loss, improved body composition, and a healthier overall lifestyle. This reduction can be especially helpful for those looking to shed a few pounds or maintain a healthy weight.

10 positive health changes when you quit drinking alcohol

5. Improved Immune System Function

Chronic alcohol consumption has been linked to a weakened immune system, putting you at greater risk for illness and infection. Alcohol affects your internal organs’ effectiveness and it inhibits your body's ability to produce white blood cells, which are critical for fighting off harmful bacteria and viruses.

By abstaining from alcohol for 30 days, you'll give your immune system a chance to recover, helping it to better protect your body from illness. The improvement in your immune function can contribute to overall better health and a reduced likelihood of catching common colds or other infections.

6. Better Digestion and Gut Health

Alcohol consumption can have negative effects on your gut health, resulting in gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, gas, and irregular bowel movements. Heavy drinking can lead to irritation and inflammation of the stomach lining, impairing normal digestion.

By cutting out alcohol, you may experience improved digestion and gut health. As your stomach lining heals and inflammation subsides, you'll likely notice a more comfortable and efficient digestive system. In turn, this can lead to better nutrient absorption and overall improved well-being.

7. Healthier Skin

It's no secret that alcohol consumption can wreak havoc on your skin. Dehydration and dilated blood vessels can result in skin that appears red, blotchy, and puffy. Additionally, alcohol can cause hormonal imbalances, which can exacerbate acne and other skin issues.

By quitting alcohol for 30 days, you may notice a drastic improvement in your skin's appearance. Better hydration, more balanced hormones, and reduced inflammation can all contribute to a clearer complexion. You might even find that your skin has a natural, healthy glow that was hidden underneath the effects of alcohol.

8. Improved Heart Health

Heavy alcohol consumption is a major risk factor for developing heart disease. Alcohol raises blood pressure, which can strain your heart muscle and lead to a higher risk of heart attack and stroke. Additionally, binge drinking can cause heart palpitations, which further increases the risk of cardiovascular complications.

By cutting out alcohol for 30 days, you'll give your heart a break from the stress alcohol puts on it. Lower blood pressure and reduced risk of irregular heartbeat can ultimately contribute to a healthier heart and a lower risk of cardiovascular issues in the future.

9. Positive Lifestyle Changes

By committing to an alcohol-free month, you're opening yourself up to the possibility of incorporating healthier habits into your daily life. For example, with your newfound mental clarity and increased energy levels, you may find it easier to make better choices when it comes to nutrition and exercise. This can lead to a domino effect of positive lifestyle changes that support your overall health.

In addition, you may also find that your social life starts to revolve less around alcohol consumption, which can be a positive change in terms of your relationships and personal well-being. Forming connections and memories without the presence of alcohol can be a transformative experience, building stronger bonds and creating more meaningful relationships.

10. Greater Sense of Well-Being and Self-Control

Finally, one of the most significant benefits of abstaining from alcohol for 30 days is the sense of accomplishment and self-control you're likely to experience. By completing a challenge such as this, you'll prove to yourself that you're capable of making positive changes in your life, ultimately boosting your self-esteem and confidence in your ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Recognizing your strength and resilience in the face of temptation can also empower you to make other positive changes in your life, fostering a sense of well-being and personal growth that extends beyond the 30-day challenge.

How Can Reframe Help?

Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!

The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.

You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.

Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol. 

And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).

The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today! 

Call to action to download reframe app for ios usersCall to action to download reframe app for android users
Reframe has helped over 2 millions people to build healthier drinking habits globally
Take The Quiz
Our Editorial Standards
At Reframe, we do science, not stigma. We base our articles on the latest peer-reviewed research in psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral science. We follow the Reframe Content Creation Guidelines, to ensure that we share accurate and actionable information with our readers. This aids them in making informed decisions on their wellness journey.
Learn more
Updated Regularly
Our articles undergo frequent updates to present the newest scientific research and changes in expert consensus in an easily understandable and implementable manner.
Relevant Articles
No items found.
Ready to meet the BEST version of yourself?
Start Your Custom Plan
Call to action to download reframe app for ios usersCall to action to download reframe app for android users
review
31,364
5 Star Reviews
mobile
3,250,000+
Downloads (as of 2023)
a bottle and a glass
500,000,000+
Drinks Eliminated

Scan the QR code to get started!

Reframe supports you in reducing alcohol consumption and enhancing your well-being.

Ready To Meet the Best Version of Yourself?
3,250,000+ Downloads (as of 2023)
31,364 Reviews
500,000,000+ Drinks eliminated
Try Reframe for 7 Days Free! Scan to download the App