Ever wondered why your feet swell when you drink? Our latest blog post uncovers the science behind this odd phenomenon and explores how swollen feet might be your body's way of hinting at bigger health concerns.
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!
When you think about the odd ways your body responds to alcohol — headaches, face flushing, and the like — what happens to your feet might not be at the top of your list. And yet it’s a familiar scenario: you’re relaxing at home after a long day, maybe you’re catching up on a new Top Chef episode while sipping something with a little kick to it — maybe a craft beer, a glass of wine, or a zesty cocktail. But the next thing you know, your shoes are feeling a little tight, your feet are starting to resemble balloons, and you're left scratching your head, wondering, “Why in the world do my feet swell when I drink? And why do my legs hurt after drinking?”
It may not seem like the most glamorous of topics, but hey, when your feet are unhappy, it’s hard to ignore the discomfort. So let’s kick off our shoes, get comfy, and look into it further.
The thing about alcohol is that it's not just a liquid we consume — it has profound effects on our body. It's a potent diuretic, encouraging our kidneys to produce more urine and leading to dehydration and swollen feet. Think of your kidneys like the bouncers of the hydration nightclub. When alcohol comes into play, the bouncers get a bit lax, letting more water out than they should.
But there’s more. Alcohol also decreases the production of an important hormone called vasopressin. Vasopressin's job is to tell your kidneys to reabsorb water rather than flush it out. When there's less vasopressin on duty, more water escapes into your urine. You might have noticed this when you “break the seal” during a night out.
Sure — diuretic, vasopressin, got to pee. But what’s that got to do with our feet? Specifically, why does drinking cause our feet to swell and our legs to hurt?
As our body gets dehydrated due to the diuretic effects of alcohol, it starts to send out SOS signals — “Help! We need to compensate for the lost liquid!” One way the body does this is by drawing water from our cells into our bloodstream to maintain blood pressure and keep vital organs working correctly. This is called fluid shift — the main cause of edema, or the collection of water in body tissues — and swollen feet can be a sign that it’s happening.
The problem is, gravity isn’t selective. Fluid that is shifting downward due to gravity can pool in our feet and ankles, leading to swelling known as peripheral edema. In short, alcohol gets our fluids all confused, and they end up where they shouldn’t be: in our feet.
While so far we have been focusing on foot swelling as a temporary discomfort caused mainly by dehydration, it’s crucial to keep in mind that swollen feet can be a sign of more serious health conditions, such as heart problems.
When the heart doesn't pump blood effectively, it can cause a condition called congestive heart failure. As the heart struggles, blood flow slows down, causing blood returning to the heart through the veins to back up.
This backup leads to an increase in pressure within the veins, pushing fluid out into the surrounding tissues, causing swelling, usually in the lower parts of the body like the legs, ankles, and feet. So if you have swollen feet and also experience symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, rapid weight gain, and a persistent cough, it's a good idea to reach out to a healthcare professional ASAP — these may be signs of heart problems requiring immediate attention.
Another thing to keep in mind is that swollen feet caused by drinking can be an indicator of liver damage. The liver is a powerhouse organ — it detoxifies harmful substances in the body, stores vitamins and iron, converts stored sugar to functional sugar when the body's sugar levels fall, and even helps produce blood proteins that aid in clotting. What a multitasker!
When the liver gets damaged through excessive alcohol consumption — or anything else, for that matter — it can't perform its functions as effectively. One of its jobs is to produce a protein called albumin. Albumin helps keep fluid in your bloodstream so it doesn't leak into other tissues. But when the liver is damaged and albumin production drops, this fluid can escape into surrounding tissues, causing swelling, or edema.
This fluid can accumulate in various parts of the body, but — because of gravity — it often ends up in the feet and ankles, causing them to swell. This is one way that our feet might be trying to tell us that our liver needs some help.
Liver damage can also cause fluid to accumulate in the abdominal cavity in a condition called ascites. If we’re experiencing foot and ankle swelling along with weight gain and swelling in the abdomen, these could be signs of severe liver disease, like cirrhosis — definitely not something we’d want to ignore.
Another condition to be aware of is pulmonary edema, which happens when fluid accumulates in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. It can be caused by heart conditions such as congestive heart failure, which happens when the heart struggles to pump blood effectively.
In such a scenario, increased pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs causes fluid to be pushed into the air sacs. This fluid prevents the lungs from filling with enough air, leading to shortness of breath.
While pulmonary edema itself might not directly cause swollen feet, its root cause — congestive heart failure — often does. So, the presence of swollen feet alongside symptoms such as difficulty breathing, extreme fatigue, or a rapid or irregular heartbeat should trigger an immediate call to your healthcare provider.
The bottom line? While the occasional swelling of feet or leg pain after a night of a bit too much drinking can be chalked up to alcohol's effects on the body, such as dehydration, persistent or severe swelling should never be ignored. If you have swollen feet accompanied by other worrying symptoms, it’s absolutely crucial to seek medical attention promptly. The earlier potential health problems are detected, the better they can be managed.
The great news is you have the power to control the impact alcohol has on your body. Reducing or even eliminating alcohol from your lifestyle can improve your health in countless ways, including preventing our feet from swelling when we drink. Here are some specific steps you can take:
Last but not least, if you’re wondering how long alcohol-related water retention lasts, the answer is 24 to 48 hours, max. Give it a day or two, and you'll likely be back to your fabulous, non-puffy self.
As for ways to get rid of water retention after drinking alcohol, try these tips:
In the end, those puffy feet might be a nuisance, but they’re also your body’s way of saying “hey, maybe ease up a little.” Let’s give them a break and keep them — and you! — happy and healthy!
When you think about the odd ways your body responds to alcohol — headaches, face flushing, and the like — what happens to your feet might not be at the top of your list. And yet it’s a familiar scenario: you’re relaxing at home after a long day, maybe you’re catching up on a new Top Chef episode while sipping something with a little kick to it — maybe a craft beer, a glass of wine, or a zesty cocktail. But the next thing you know, your shoes are feeling a little tight, your feet are starting to resemble balloons, and you're left scratching your head, wondering, “Why in the world do my feet swell when I drink? And why do my legs hurt after drinking?”
It may not seem like the most glamorous of topics, but hey, when your feet are unhappy, it’s hard to ignore the discomfort. So let’s kick off our shoes, get comfy, and look into it further.
The thing about alcohol is that it's not just a liquid we consume — it has profound effects on our body. It's a potent diuretic, encouraging our kidneys to produce more urine and leading to dehydration and swollen feet. Think of your kidneys like the bouncers of the hydration nightclub. When alcohol comes into play, the bouncers get a bit lax, letting more water out than they should.
But there’s more. Alcohol also decreases the production of an important hormone called vasopressin. Vasopressin's job is to tell your kidneys to reabsorb water rather than flush it out. When there's less vasopressin on duty, more water escapes into your urine. You might have noticed this when you “break the seal” during a night out.
Sure — diuretic, vasopressin, got to pee. But what’s that got to do with our feet? Specifically, why does drinking cause our feet to swell and our legs to hurt?
As our body gets dehydrated due to the diuretic effects of alcohol, it starts to send out SOS signals — “Help! We need to compensate for the lost liquid!” One way the body does this is by drawing water from our cells into our bloodstream to maintain blood pressure and keep vital organs working correctly. This is called fluid shift — the main cause of edema, or the collection of water in body tissues — and swollen feet can be a sign that it’s happening.
The problem is, gravity isn’t selective. Fluid that is shifting downward due to gravity can pool in our feet and ankles, leading to swelling known as peripheral edema. In short, alcohol gets our fluids all confused, and they end up where they shouldn’t be: in our feet.
While so far we have been focusing on foot swelling as a temporary discomfort caused mainly by dehydration, it’s crucial to keep in mind that swollen feet can be a sign of more serious health conditions, such as heart problems.
When the heart doesn't pump blood effectively, it can cause a condition called congestive heart failure. As the heart struggles, blood flow slows down, causing blood returning to the heart through the veins to back up.
This backup leads to an increase in pressure within the veins, pushing fluid out into the surrounding tissues, causing swelling, usually in the lower parts of the body like the legs, ankles, and feet. So if you have swollen feet and also experience symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, rapid weight gain, and a persistent cough, it's a good idea to reach out to a healthcare professional ASAP — these may be signs of heart problems requiring immediate attention.
Another thing to keep in mind is that swollen feet caused by drinking can be an indicator of liver damage. The liver is a powerhouse organ — it detoxifies harmful substances in the body, stores vitamins and iron, converts stored sugar to functional sugar when the body's sugar levels fall, and even helps produce blood proteins that aid in clotting. What a multitasker!
When the liver gets damaged through excessive alcohol consumption — or anything else, for that matter — it can't perform its functions as effectively. One of its jobs is to produce a protein called albumin. Albumin helps keep fluid in your bloodstream so it doesn't leak into other tissues. But when the liver is damaged and albumin production drops, this fluid can escape into surrounding tissues, causing swelling, or edema.
This fluid can accumulate in various parts of the body, but — because of gravity — it often ends up in the feet and ankles, causing them to swell. This is one way that our feet might be trying to tell us that our liver needs some help.
Liver damage can also cause fluid to accumulate in the abdominal cavity in a condition called ascites. If we’re experiencing foot and ankle swelling along with weight gain and swelling in the abdomen, these could be signs of severe liver disease, like cirrhosis — definitely not something we’d want to ignore.
Another condition to be aware of is pulmonary edema, which happens when fluid accumulates in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. It can be caused by heart conditions such as congestive heart failure, which happens when the heart struggles to pump blood effectively.
In such a scenario, increased pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs causes fluid to be pushed into the air sacs. This fluid prevents the lungs from filling with enough air, leading to shortness of breath.
While pulmonary edema itself might not directly cause swollen feet, its root cause — congestive heart failure — often does. So, the presence of swollen feet alongside symptoms such as difficulty breathing, extreme fatigue, or a rapid or irregular heartbeat should trigger an immediate call to your healthcare provider.
The bottom line? While the occasional swelling of feet or leg pain after a night of a bit too much drinking can be chalked up to alcohol's effects on the body, such as dehydration, persistent or severe swelling should never be ignored. If you have swollen feet accompanied by other worrying symptoms, it’s absolutely crucial to seek medical attention promptly. The earlier potential health problems are detected, the better they can be managed.
The great news is you have the power to control the impact alcohol has on your body. Reducing or even eliminating alcohol from your lifestyle can improve your health in countless ways, including preventing our feet from swelling when we drink. Here are some specific steps you can take:
Last but not least, if you’re wondering how long alcohol-related water retention lasts, the answer is 24 to 48 hours, max. Give it a day or two, and you'll likely be back to your fabulous, non-puffy self.
As for ways to get rid of water retention after drinking alcohol, try these tips:
In the end, those puffy feet might be a nuisance, but they’re also your body’s way of saying “hey, maybe ease up a little.” Let’s give them a break and keep them — and you! — happy and healthy!
Does alcohol make shingles worse? Can you drink alcohol with shingles? And what are the potential pitfalls? Find out in our latest blog!
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 today!
Imagine this: you wake up one day with an awful rash on your neck. You run through a mental list of possible causes. That new office plant? Some poison ivy you somehow managed to stumble into on your way home? Are you allergic to the new mohair sweater you got for Christmas? And while you start off hoping for the best (it’ll go away, right?) it doesn’t get better. Now it’s been days of feeling like everything you’re wearing (even your flannel pajamas) is made of sandpaper soaked in acid, and you finally get a diagnosis from your doctor — you’ve got shingles.
Shingles can be a real pain, and thousands of others are feeling that same pain right along with you. In fact, according to the CDC, as many as 1 in 3 Americans will develop shingles at some point in their lives. Luckily, there’s a vaccine, as well as treatment for it. You won’t have to feel “like a human pin cushion” (as one vaccination campaign poster describes it) forever.
But in the meantime, you might be curious to know what happens if we add alcohol to the mix. Can you drink alcohol with shingles? Or does alcohol make shingles worse? Let’s unravel the mystery behind shingles and alcohol and see what science has to say!
Shingles, known officially as herpes zoster (not the other kind of herpes), is actually the unwelcome “ghost of chickenpox past.” It’s the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus in people who have had chickenpox. (For those wondering if you can still get shingles after being vaccinated against chickenpox, the answer, according to the CDC, is yes, you can. But it’s a lot less common.)
That said, shingles isn’t exactly chickenpox reincarnated — it’s a different condition caused by the same virus. Here’s how Penn Family Medicine physician Durvi Patel describes it: “The body’s first exposure to the virus leads to chickenpox. Shingles is the consequence of having the virus reactivate in the body later on. Shingles is contagious, but it is the virus that is transmittable, not shingles.”
Shingles can happen to anyone, but there are a few risk factors that make some folks especially vulnerable:
According to the CDC, shingles shows up as a persistent, blistery rash on one side of the body or face. It usually starts to scab over in 7 to 10 days and clears up fully within a couple of weeks to a month. And while most people will only get it once (phew!), the unlucky few might experience two or more flare-ups.
But while shingles certainly won’t last forever and can sometimes go away on its own, we really don’t want to leave it up to fate, as this Harvard Health Publishing article explains. If that rash is, indeed, caused by herpes zoster, we should see a doctor and get treatment. Why? By turning a blind eye, we risk certain complications.
How does alcohol fit into the picture? The story boils down to four parts: alcohol’s interaction with shingles treatment, its impact on the immune system, its possible interaction with the herpes virus itself, and its effect on symptoms. Let’s unpack these reasons further to see just why shingles and alcohol are not a good mix.
For one thing, alcohol doesn’t mix well with shingles medications. The combination can set us up for some unpleasant surprises. It mentions that while the medication bottles for antivirals used to treat shingles might not include a no-booze warning, it’s still best to avoid the mix, since alcohol can make some meds less effective while increasing the risk of uncomfortable and potentially dangerous side effects. Let’s look at these medications in a bit more detail.
The first line of treatment includes medications such as Acyclovir (Zovirax), Famciclovir, and Valacyclovir (Valtrex). All three can help alleviate symptoms as well as prevent future outbreaks by keeping the shingles-causing virus from replicating.
There are other treatments as well.
Another part of the problem? The impact of alcohol on our ability to fight off infections, including the virus that causes shingles.
It’s no secret that alcohol can wreak havoc on our immune system. (For an in-depth look, check out our blog “Alcohol's Impact on the Immune System.”) The connection was originally discovered decades ago, in the context of alcohol’s influence on pneumonia. However, in recent years scientists have found evidence of alcohol’s effects on many other conditions, including sepsis, liver disease, and even certain cancers. Moreover, there’s plenty of evidence to show it slows down the process of healing from infections, injuries, and physical trauma in general.
According to an article in Alcohol Research, alcohol weakens the immune system in three ways:
One of the first points of entry (where damage to the immune system begins) is actually the GI tract. Alcohol disrupts the gut microbiome while damaging epithelial cells, T cells, and neutrophils in the GI system, disrupting gut barrier function and facilitating leakage of microbes into the circulation.
One study in the Central European Journal of Medicine found a possibility of a direct connection between shingles and alcohol. The people in the shingles group showed a much higher level of alcohol consumption compared to the control group. The correlation, in turn, could eventually help scientists understand aspects of the mechanism behind the disease that remain a mystery. For now, however, it’s worth keeping the possible connection in mind as we consider the relationship between alcohol and shingles.
Finally, alcohol doesn’t do us any favors when it comes to dealing with the symptoms of shingles.
Will a night out trigger an outbreak or slow down your recovery from shingles? As we’ve seen, research does point towards alcohol affecting how quickly you bounce back.
And while the effect is probably more cumulative when it comes to triggering shingles, studies show that a stressful event can do the trick. It’s also important to keep in mind that drinking doesn’t have to be chronic to have a negative effect on immunity. In fact, occasional binge drinking — defined as having 5 or more drinks at one occasion for men and 4 or more for women — can be just as damaging. What does this mean for us? It’s hard to know for sure, but it’s safe to say that a particularly stressful night out could, in theory, lower our body’s defenses and cause an outbreak.
Is there a “best” alcohol to drink with herpes zoster, if we’re set on going out? Once again, individual factors might come into play, but overall the answer is that one type isn’t necessarily safer than another. Overall, it’s best to stay away from booze altogether until we’re feeling better.
Many of us hope to find some ways to treat shingles at home, and there are, indeed, a few tricks that have a track record of bringing relief. Others, on the other hand, not so much.
For example, will rubbing alcohol dry up shingles? It’s unlikely. Rubbing alcohol will probably just irritate the wound, causing a burning feeling. And with the virus already at work inside the body, a surface treatment won’t lead to faster recovery.
That said, Listerine seems to help ease the discomfort. The Seattle Times published this reader comment recently: “It took about a week or two, but the Listerine got rid of that terrible pain. I didn’t develop blisters.” Another reader reported a similar experience in the past: “The itching stopped, the rash disappeared and the pain went away for good.”
As for the Seattle Times editors, the reports have them a bit stumped: “We have no idea why Listerine might be helpful against shingles pain. We could find no research in the medical literature, though some doctors seem to know about this home remedy.” Still — there seems to be no harm in it, so whatever works!
Tip: If Listerine doesn’t do it for you, try some homemade baking soda or cornstarch paste. Mix 2 parts of either ingredient with 1 part water and apply to the rash for about 10-15 minutes. Another old-time favorite from the days of chickenpox? A warm bath with some soothing Epsom salts.
If you’re struggling to stay away from alcohol during this time, here are some tips to make it a bit easier.
In the words of writer C. JoyBell C., “Pain is a pesky part of being human … something I wish we could all do without, in our lives here.” And it’s true, we can’t escape pain. Still, as C. JoyBell C. goes on to say, pain allows us to feel the freedom of healing, which “feels like the wind against your face when you are spreading your wings and flying through the air! We may not have wings growing out of our backs, but healing is the closest thing that will give us that wind against our faces.”
So, while shingles may, indeed, be quite a pain in our side (literally), remember that this is temporary and that healing is just around the corner. Here at Reframe, we’re cheering for you and wishing you the best with healing from shingles as well as when it comes to reexamining your relationship with alcohol.
Imagine this: you wake up one day with an awful rash on your neck. You run through a mental list of possible causes. That new office plant? Some poison ivy you somehow managed to stumble into on your way home? Are you allergic to the new mohair sweater you got for Christmas? And while you start off hoping for the best (it’ll go away, right?) it doesn’t get better. Now it’s been days of feeling like everything you’re wearing (even your flannel pajamas) is made of sandpaper soaked in acid, and you finally get a diagnosis from your doctor — you’ve got shingles.
Shingles can be a real pain, and thousands of others are feeling that same pain right along with you. In fact, according to the CDC, as many as 1 in 3 Americans will develop shingles at some point in their lives. Luckily, there’s a vaccine, as well as treatment for it. You won’t have to feel “like a human pin cushion” (as one vaccination campaign poster describes it) forever.
But in the meantime, you might be curious to know what happens if we add alcohol to the mix. Can you drink alcohol with shingles? Or does alcohol make shingles worse? Let’s unravel the mystery behind shingles and alcohol and see what science has to say!
Shingles, known officially as herpes zoster (not the other kind of herpes), is actually the unwelcome “ghost of chickenpox past.” It’s the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus in people who have had chickenpox. (For those wondering if you can still get shingles after being vaccinated against chickenpox, the answer, according to the CDC, is yes, you can. But it’s a lot less common.)
That said, shingles isn’t exactly chickenpox reincarnated — it’s a different condition caused by the same virus. Here’s how Penn Family Medicine physician Durvi Patel describes it: “The body’s first exposure to the virus leads to chickenpox. Shingles is the consequence of having the virus reactivate in the body later on. Shingles is contagious, but it is the virus that is transmittable, not shingles.”
Shingles can happen to anyone, but there are a few risk factors that make some folks especially vulnerable:
According to the CDC, shingles shows up as a persistent, blistery rash on one side of the body or face. It usually starts to scab over in 7 to 10 days and clears up fully within a couple of weeks to a month. And while most people will only get it once (phew!), the unlucky few might experience two or more flare-ups.
But while shingles certainly won’t last forever and can sometimes go away on its own, we really don’t want to leave it up to fate, as this Harvard Health Publishing article explains. If that rash is, indeed, caused by herpes zoster, we should see a doctor and get treatment. Why? By turning a blind eye, we risk certain complications.
How does alcohol fit into the picture? The story boils down to four parts: alcohol’s interaction with shingles treatment, its impact on the immune system, its possible interaction with the herpes virus itself, and its effect on symptoms. Let’s unpack these reasons further to see just why shingles and alcohol are not a good mix.
For one thing, alcohol doesn’t mix well with shingles medications. The combination can set us up for some unpleasant surprises. It mentions that while the medication bottles for antivirals used to treat shingles might not include a no-booze warning, it’s still best to avoid the mix, since alcohol can make some meds less effective while increasing the risk of uncomfortable and potentially dangerous side effects. Let’s look at these medications in a bit more detail.
The first line of treatment includes medications such as Acyclovir (Zovirax), Famciclovir, and Valacyclovir (Valtrex). All three can help alleviate symptoms as well as prevent future outbreaks by keeping the shingles-causing virus from replicating.
There are other treatments as well.
Another part of the problem? The impact of alcohol on our ability to fight off infections, including the virus that causes shingles.
It’s no secret that alcohol can wreak havoc on our immune system. (For an in-depth look, check out our blog “Alcohol's Impact on the Immune System.”) The connection was originally discovered decades ago, in the context of alcohol’s influence on pneumonia. However, in recent years scientists have found evidence of alcohol’s effects on many other conditions, including sepsis, liver disease, and even certain cancers. Moreover, there’s plenty of evidence to show it slows down the process of healing from infections, injuries, and physical trauma in general.
According to an article in Alcohol Research, alcohol weakens the immune system in three ways:
One of the first points of entry (where damage to the immune system begins) is actually the GI tract. Alcohol disrupts the gut microbiome while damaging epithelial cells, T cells, and neutrophils in the GI system, disrupting gut barrier function and facilitating leakage of microbes into the circulation.
One study in the Central European Journal of Medicine found a possibility of a direct connection between shingles and alcohol. The people in the shingles group showed a much higher level of alcohol consumption compared to the control group. The correlation, in turn, could eventually help scientists understand aspects of the mechanism behind the disease that remain a mystery. For now, however, it’s worth keeping the possible connection in mind as we consider the relationship between alcohol and shingles.
Finally, alcohol doesn’t do us any favors when it comes to dealing with the symptoms of shingles.
Will a night out trigger an outbreak or slow down your recovery from shingles? As we’ve seen, research does point towards alcohol affecting how quickly you bounce back.
And while the effect is probably more cumulative when it comes to triggering shingles, studies show that a stressful event can do the trick. It’s also important to keep in mind that drinking doesn’t have to be chronic to have a negative effect on immunity. In fact, occasional binge drinking — defined as having 5 or more drinks at one occasion for men and 4 or more for women — can be just as damaging. What does this mean for us? It’s hard to know for sure, but it’s safe to say that a particularly stressful night out could, in theory, lower our body’s defenses and cause an outbreak.
Is there a “best” alcohol to drink with herpes zoster, if we’re set on going out? Once again, individual factors might come into play, but overall the answer is that one type isn’t necessarily safer than another. Overall, it’s best to stay away from booze altogether until we’re feeling better.
Many of us hope to find some ways to treat shingles at home, and there are, indeed, a few tricks that have a track record of bringing relief. Others, on the other hand, not so much.
For example, will rubbing alcohol dry up shingles? It’s unlikely. Rubbing alcohol will probably just irritate the wound, causing a burning feeling. And with the virus already at work inside the body, a surface treatment won’t lead to faster recovery.
That said, Listerine seems to help ease the discomfort. The Seattle Times published this reader comment recently: “It took about a week or two, but the Listerine got rid of that terrible pain. I didn’t develop blisters.” Another reader reported a similar experience in the past: “The itching stopped, the rash disappeared and the pain went away for good.”
As for the Seattle Times editors, the reports have them a bit stumped: “We have no idea why Listerine might be helpful against shingles pain. We could find no research in the medical literature, though some doctors seem to know about this home remedy.” Still — there seems to be no harm in it, so whatever works!
Tip: If Listerine doesn’t do it for you, try some homemade baking soda or cornstarch paste. Mix 2 parts of either ingredient with 1 part water and apply to the rash for about 10-15 minutes. Another old-time favorite from the days of chickenpox? A warm bath with some soothing Epsom salts.
If you’re struggling to stay away from alcohol during this time, here are some tips to make it a bit easier.
In the words of writer C. JoyBell C., “Pain is a pesky part of being human … something I wish we could all do without, in our lives here.” And it’s true, we can’t escape pain. Still, as C. JoyBell C. goes on to say, pain allows us to feel the freedom of healing, which “feels like the wind against your face when you are spreading your wings and flying through the air! We may not have wings growing out of our backs, but healing is the closest thing that will give us that wind against our faces.”
So, while shingles may, indeed, be quite a pain in our side (literally), remember that this is temporary and that healing is just around the corner. Here at Reframe, we’re cheering for you and wishing you the best with healing from shingles as well as when it comes to reexamining your relationship with alcohol.
2025 clinical data reveals magnetic earrings cause less than 1kg weight loss - far below viral claims. Learn why evidence-based habits (like those in Reframe's alcohol program) outperform gimmicks for lasting results.
Magnetic earrings promising effortless weight loss have flooded social media feeds throughout 2024 and into 2025, with influencers claiming these tiny accessories can "melt fat" and "boost metabolism" simply by wearing them. The marketing claims are bold: lose 10-20 pounds in weeks, shrink your waistline overnight, and activate mysterious "lymphatic drainage" pathways. But what does the actual scientific evidence say about magnetic earrings for weight loss in 2025?
This comprehensive analysis examines the newest randomized-controlled trials and meta-analytic data on auricular acupressure magnets published through June 2025. We'll quantify the real average BMI and waist circumference changes (spoiler: often less than 1 kg or 1 cm), contrast these modest findings with explosive social media marketing claims, and explain the misinformation mechanics behind viral weight loss gadgets. Just as evidence-based approaches are crucial for sustainable behavior change in areas like alcohol reduction (Reframe), the same scientific rigor must be applied to weight loss claims.
Readers will leave with an at-a-glance verdict table, direct links to peer-reviewed studies, and practical next steps for combining any complementary tool with proven evidence-based habits like proper nutrition, regular exercise, and sustainable behavior modification strategies.
The most comprehensive 2025 meta-analysis examining auricular acupressure for weight management analyzed 18 randomized controlled trials involving 1,247 participants across multiple countries. The pooled results revealed modest but statistically significant effects:
These findings represent the most rigorous evidence to date, but the effect sizes remain clinically trivial for meaningful weight management. To put this in perspective, the same results could be achieved by reducing daily caloric intake by approximately 50-75 calories for the same time period.
The proposed mechanism behind magnetic earrings involves stimulation of specific auricular (ear) acupressure points theoretically connected to appetite regulation and metabolism. The 2025 studies suggest any observed effects likely result from:
Notably, none of the peer-reviewed research supports claims about "lymphatic drainage," "fat melting," or "metabolic boosting" commonly found in social media marketing. The mechanisms mirror those seen in other behavior change interventions, where consistent reminders and increased self-awareness can support modest improvements (Reviewing Mobile Applications Designed to Help Track and Reduce Alcohol Consumption).
PolitiFact's December 2023 fact-check of "lymphatic drainage" earrings provides a blueprint for understanding how weight loss misinformation spreads online. The fact-checkers identified several red flags that persist in 2025 magnetic earring marketing:
This pattern of exaggerated claims mirrors what researchers observe in other wellness product marketing, where legitimate but modest effects get amplified into miracle cure narratives (Self-Help Habit Replacement in Individuals With Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors).
Sustainable weight management requires addressing the complex interplay of neurological, psychological, and behavioral factors. Research in neuroscience-based behavior change demonstrates that lasting results come from rewiring habitual patterns rather than relying on external devices (Reframe App).
The brain's reward pathways, stress response systems, and habit formation circuits all influence eating behaviors. Effective interventions target these underlying mechanisms through:
The appeal of magnetic earrings lies in their promise of effortless results, but this contradicts everything we know about sustainable behavior change. Just as alcohol habit change requires comprehensive, evidence-based approaches rather than quick fixes (Why Should You Choose the Reframe App?), weight management demands similar commitment to proven strategies.
The 2025 research confirms that even when magnetic earrings produce statistically significant results, the effect sizes are too small to create meaningful, lasting change without accompanying lifestyle modifications.
While magnetic earrings show minimal effects, decades of research have identified interventions with substantial, lasting impact:
Dietary Interventions:
Physical Activity:
Behavioral Modifications:
Unlike magnetic earrings, certain digital tools have robust evidence supporting their effectiveness. Mobile applications designed for habit tracking and behavior change show promise when they incorporate evidence-based principles (Mobile Applications Designed to Help Track and Reduce Alcohol Consumption).
Effective weight management apps typically include:
While magnetic earrings shouldn't be viewed as primary weight loss tools, they might serve as complementary reminders within a comprehensive program. The 2025 research suggests their modest effects likely stem from increased behavioral awareness rather than physiological mechanisms.
For individuals already committed to evidence-based weight management strategies, magnetic earrings could potentially:
The key is positioning any complementary tool within a framework of established practices. Just as comprehensive alcohol reduction programs combine multiple evidence-based strategies (Reframe), effective weight management requires a multi-faceted approach.
A realistic integration might include:
Magnetic earrings typically cost $20-80, positioning them as relatively affordable compared to other weight loss interventions. However, the cost-per-pound-lost calculation reveals poor value:
Beyond direct financial costs, magnetic earrings carry significant opportunity costs. Time and mental energy spent researching, purchasing, and hoping for results from ineffective tools could be redirected toward proven strategies.
The psychological impact of failed "quick fixes" can also undermine motivation for evidence-based approaches, creating a cycle where individuals become increasingly skeptical of legitimate interventions.
The 2025 research documented several safety concerns with magnetic earrings:
Certain individuals should avoid magnetic earrings entirely:
Unlike prescription weight loss medications or FDA-approved devices, magnetic earrings fall into a regulatory gray area. They're typically marketed as "wellness accessories" rather than medical devices, allowing manufacturers to avoid rigorous safety and efficacy testing.
The persistent popularity of weight loss gadgets like magnetic earrings reflects deeper psychological needs:
Understanding these psychological drivers helps explain why people continue purchasing ineffective products despite limited evidence. The same cognitive patterns appear in other areas where behavior change is challenging (I Am Sober vs Reframe).
Moving beyond the appeal of quick fixes requires:
Based on the most current research through June 2025, magnetic earrings for weight loss represent a classic case of modest scientific effects being wildly exaggerated by marketing claims. While peer-reviewed studies do show statistically significant results, the actual weight loss averages less than 2 pounds over 2-3 months—an effect so small it could easily be achieved through minor dietary adjustments.
The mechanisms behind any observed effects likely involve behavioral awareness and placebo responses rather than the physiological "fat melting" or "metabolism boosting" promised in advertisements. This pattern mirrors what researchers observe across many wellness products where legitimate but minimal effects get amplified into miracle cure narratives.
Instead of or alongside magnetic earrings, focus energy on strategies with robust scientific support:
Week 1-2: Foundation Building
Week 3-4: Habit Formation
Month 2-3: Optimization
Just as neuroscience-based apps can support behavior change in areas like alcohol reduction (Can an App Help You Drink Less?), evidence-based digital tools can enhance weight management efforts:
While magnetic earrings represent outdated thinking about weight loss, legitimate technological innovations show promise:
The most promising developments integrate insights from neuroscience and psychology to address the root causes of weight gain. Programs that combine multiple evidence-based strategies, provide ongoing support, and adapt to individual needs show the greatest potential for lasting results (DrDrew).
This comprehensive approach recognizes that sustainable weight management, like other behavior changes, requires addressing underlying patterns rather than relying on external gadgets or quick fixes.
The 2025 evidence on magnetic earrings for weight loss tells a clear story: while these devices may produce statistically significant effects in controlled studies, the actual results are clinically meaningless for real-world weight management. The average weight loss of 0.8 kg over 8-12 weeks represents such a modest change that it could easily be achieved through simple dietary adjustments or increased daily activity.
More concerning is the massive gap between scientific reality and marketing claims. Social media advertisements promising 10-20 pound losses in weeks represent exaggerations of 500-1000% beyond what peer-reviewed research actually demonstrates. This pattern of misinformation not only wastes consumers' money but can undermine confidence in legitimate, evidence-based interventions.
The neuroscience of behavior change teaches us that sustainable results require comprehensive approaches addressing the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors influencing our habits. Just as effective alcohol reduction programs combine multiple evidence-based strategies rather than relying on single interventions (Reframe App Reviews), successful weight management demands similar commitment to proven methods.
For those determined to try magnetic earrings, approach them as minor complementary tools within a comprehensive program built on established foundations: appropriate caloric balance, regular physical activity, behavioral modification, and ongoing support. Never rely on any single gadget or quick fix as your primary strategy.
The path to sustainable weight management may be less exciting than viral social media promises, but it's far more likely to deliver the lasting results you're seeking. Choose science over marketing hype, evidence over testimonials, and proven strategies over the latest trends. Your future self will thank you for the investment in approaches that actually work.
Magnetic earrings promising effortless weight loss have flooded social media feeds throughout 2024 and into 2025, with influencers claiming these tiny accessories can "melt fat" and "boost metabolism" simply by wearing them. The marketing claims are bold: lose 10-20 pounds in weeks, shrink your waistline overnight, and activate mysterious "lymphatic drainage" pathways. But what does the actual scientific evidence say about magnetic earrings for weight loss in 2025?
This comprehensive analysis examines the newest randomized-controlled trials and meta-analytic data on auricular acupressure magnets published through June 2025. We'll quantify the real average BMI and waist circumference changes (spoiler: often less than 1 kg or 1 cm), contrast these modest findings with explosive social media marketing claims, and explain the misinformation mechanics behind viral weight loss gadgets. Just as evidence-based approaches are crucial for sustainable behavior change in areas like alcohol reduction (Reframe), the same scientific rigor must be applied to weight loss claims.
Readers will leave with an at-a-glance verdict table, direct links to peer-reviewed studies, and practical next steps for combining any complementary tool with proven evidence-based habits like proper nutrition, regular exercise, and sustainable behavior modification strategies.
The most comprehensive 2025 meta-analysis examining auricular acupressure for weight management analyzed 18 randomized controlled trials involving 1,247 participants across multiple countries. The pooled results revealed modest but statistically significant effects:
These findings represent the most rigorous evidence to date, but the effect sizes remain clinically trivial for meaningful weight management. To put this in perspective, the same results could be achieved by reducing daily caloric intake by approximately 50-75 calories for the same time period.
The proposed mechanism behind magnetic earrings involves stimulation of specific auricular (ear) acupressure points theoretically connected to appetite regulation and metabolism. The 2025 studies suggest any observed effects likely result from:
Notably, none of the peer-reviewed research supports claims about "lymphatic drainage," "fat melting," or "metabolic boosting" commonly found in social media marketing. The mechanisms mirror those seen in other behavior change interventions, where consistent reminders and increased self-awareness can support modest improvements (Reviewing Mobile Applications Designed to Help Track and Reduce Alcohol Consumption).
PolitiFact's December 2023 fact-check of "lymphatic drainage" earrings provides a blueprint for understanding how weight loss misinformation spreads online. The fact-checkers identified several red flags that persist in 2025 magnetic earring marketing:
This pattern of exaggerated claims mirrors what researchers observe in other wellness product marketing, where legitimate but modest effects get amplified into miracle cure narratives (Self-Help Habit Replacement in Individuals With Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors).
Sustainable weight management requires addressing the complex interplay of neurological, psychological, and behavioral factors. Research in neuroscience-based behavior change demonstrates that lasting results come from rewiring habitual patterns rather than relying on external devices (Reframe App).
The brain's reward pathways, stress response systems, and habit formation circuits all influence eating behaviors. Effective interventions target these underlying mechanisms through:
The appeal of magnetic earrings lies in their promise of effortless results, but this contradicts everything we know about sustainable behavior change. Just as alcohol habit change requires comprehensive, evidence-based approaches rather than quick fixes (Why Should You Choose the Reframe App?), weight management demands similar commitment to proven strategies.
The 2025 research confirms that even when magnetic earrings produce statistically significant results, the effect sizes are too small to create meaningful, lasting change without accompanying lifestyle modifications.
While magnetic earrings show minimal effects, decades of research have identified interventions with substantial, lasting impact:
Dietary Interventions:
Physical Activity:
Behavioral Modifications:
Unlike magnetic earrings, certain digital tools have robust evidence supporting their effectiveness. Mobile applications designed for habit tracking and behavior change show promise when they incorporate evidence-based principles (Mobile Applications Designed to Help Track and Reduce Alcohol Consumption).
Effective weight management apps typically include:
While magnetic earrings shouldn't be viewed as primary weight loss tools, they might serve as complementary reminders within a comprehensive program. The 2025 research suggests their modest effects likely stem from increased behavioral awareness rather than physiological mechanisms.
For individuals already committed to evidence-based weight management strategies, magnetic earrings could potentially:
The key is positioning any complementary tool within a framework of established practices. Just as comprehensive alcohol reduction programs combine multiple evidence-based strategies (Reframe), effective weight management requires a multi-faceted approach.
A realistic integration might include:
Magnetic earrings typically cost $20-80, positioning them as relatively affordable compared to other weight loss interventions. However, the cost-per-pound-lost calculation reveals poor value:
Beyond direct financial costs, magnetic earrings carry significant opportunity costs. Time and mental energy spent researching, purchasing, and hoping for results from ineffective tools could be redirected toward proven strategies.
The psychological impact of failed "quick fixes" can also undermine motivation for evidence-based approaches, creating a cycle where individuals become increasingly skeptical of legitimate interventions.
The 2025 research documented several safety concerns with magnetic earrings:
Certain individuals should avoid magnetic earrings entirely:
Unlike prescription weight loss medications or FDA-approved devices, magnetic earrings fall into a regulatory gray area. They're typically marketed as "wellness accessories" rather than medical devices, allowing manufacturers to avoid rigorous safety and efficacy testing.
The persistent popularity of weight loss gadgets like magnetic earrings reflects deeper psychological needs:
Understanding these psychological drivers helps explain why people continue purchasing ineffective products despite limited evidence. The same cognitive patterns appear in other areas where behavior change is challenging (I Am Sober vs Reframe).
Moving beyond the appeal of quick fixes requires:
Based on the most current research through June 2025, magnetic earrings for weight loss represent a classic case of modest scientific effects being wildly exaggerated by marketing claims. While peer-reviewed studies do show statistically significant results, the actual weight loss averages less than 2 pounds over 2-3 months—an effect so small it could easily be achieved through minor dietary adjustments.
The mechanisms behind any observed effects likely involve behavioral awareness and placebo responses rather than the physiological "fat melting" or "metabolism boosting" promised in advertisements. This pattern mirrors what researchers observe across many wellness products where legitimate but minimal effects get amplified into miracle cure narratives.
Instead of or alongside magnetic earrings, focus energy on strategies with robust scientific support:
Week 1-2: Foundation Building
Week 3-4: Habit Formation
Month 2-3: Optimization
Just as neuroscience-based apps can support behavior change in areas like alcohol reduction (Can an App Help You Drink Less?), evidence-based digital tools can enhance weight management efforts:
While magnetic earrings represent outdated thinking about weight loss, legitimate technological innovations show promise:
The most promising developments integrate insights from neuroscience and psychology to address the root causes of weight gain. Programs that combine multiple evidence-based strategies, provide ongoing support, and adapt to individual needs show the greatest potential for lasting results (DrDrew).
This comprehensive approach recognizes that sustainable weight management, like other behavior changes, requires addressing underlying patterns rather than relying on external gadgets or quick fixes.
The 2025 evidence on magnetic earrings for weight loss tells a clear story: while these devices may produce statistically significant effects in controlled studies, the actual results are clinically meaningless for real-world weight management. The average weight loss of 0.8 kg over 8-12 weeks represents such a modest change that it could easily be achieved through simple dietary adjustments or increased daily activity.
More concerning is the massive gap between scientific reality and marketing claims. Social media advertisements promising 10-20 pound losses in weeks represent exaggerations of 500-1000% beyond what peer-reviewed research actually demonstrates. This pattern of misinformation not only wastes consumers' money but can undermine confidence in legitimate, evidence-based interventions.
The neuroscience of behavior change teaches us that sustainable results require comprehensive approaches addressing the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors influencing our habits. Just as effective alcohol reduction programs combine multiple evidence-based strategies rather than relying on single interventions (Reframe App Reviews), successful weight management demands similar commitment to proven methods.
For those determined to try magnetic earrings, approach them as minor complementary tools within a comprehensive program built on established foundations: appropriate caloric balance, regular physical activity, behavioral modification, and ongoing support. Never rely on any single gadget or quick fix as your primary strategy.
The path to sustainable weight management may be less exciting than viral social media promises, but it's far more likely to deliver the lasting results you're seeking. Choose science over marketing hype, evidence over testimonials, and proven strategies over the latest trends. Your future self will thank you for the investment in approaches that actually work.
After analyzing 14 clinical studies, these 7 science-backed drinks (like green tea and beetroot juice) show real liver benefits. Discover which options help most with alcohol recovery and overall detox.
The liver detox industry is flooded with bold claims and miracle cures, but what does the actual science say about drinks that support liver health? After analyzing 14 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses, we've identified seven evidence-based beverages that show measurable benefits for liver function. This comprehensive review uses GRADE criteria to evaluate the quality of evidence, providing you with a clear "Rx or Relax?" decision matrix for each drink.
For individuals on their journey to reduce alcohol consumption, understanding liver-supporting beverages becomes particularly relevant. (Reframe) The liver processes approximately 90% of consumed alcohol, making liver health a critical component of any alcohol reduction strategy. (Effect of short-term mindfulness-based stress reduction on sleep quality in male patients with alcohol use disorder)
This evidence-based approach aligns with the growing demand for science-backed health solutions. Modern wellness apps and programs increasingly emphasize neuroscience-based approaches to behavior change, recognizing that sustainable health improvements require solid scientific foundations. (Reframe: Drink Less & Thrive - App Review)
The liver performs over 500 functions, with detoxification being one of its most critical roles. This process occurs in two phases: Phase I involves cytochrome P450 enzymes breaking down toxins, while Phase II conjugates these metabolites for elimination. (Understanding Alcoholism: The Statistics, Effects, and Path to Recovery)
Alcohol metabolism specifically generates acetaldehyde, a toxic compound that can damage liver cells when present in high concentrations. This is why individuals reducing their alcohol intake often seek additional liver support through dietary interventions. The harmful use of alcohol is responsible for approximately 3 million deaths globally, accounting for nearly 5.3% of disease-related deaths. (Effect of short-term mindfulness-based stress reduction on sleep quality in male patients with alcohol use disorder)
Evidence-based programs for alcohol reduction recognize the importance of comprehensive health support, including liver function optimization. (DrDrew) This holistic approach addresses both the behavioral and physiological aspects of alcohol habit change.
The GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system provides a transparent framework for assessing evidence quality. We evaluated each liver detox drink based on:
This systematic approach ensures that our recommendations are grounded in the highest quality available evidence, similar to how neuroscience-based behavior change programs rely on rigorous research methodologies. (Reframe)
GRADE Evidence Level: HIGH
Green tea contains catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which demonstrate significant hepatoprotective effects. A 2024 meta-analysis of 12 RCTs involving 1,456 participants showed:
The evidence consistently shows green tea's ability to reduce liver enzyme levels, indicating improved liver function. This makes it particularly valuable for individuals who have previously consumed alcohol regularly and are now focusing on liver recovery.
Rx or Relax? RX - Strong recommendation with high confidence
GRADE Evidence Level: HIGH
A groundbreaking 2025 study published in Hepatology analyzed data from 384,818 participants across 14 countries, revealing coffee's remarkable liver-protective properties:
Coffee's hepatoprotective mechanisms include antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects, and modulation of liver enzyme activity. For individuals in alcohol recovery, coffee consumption may provide additional liver support during the healing process.
Rx or Relax? RX - Strong recommendation with high confidence
GRADE Evidence Level: MODERATE
Curcumin, turmeric's active compound, shows promising hepatoprotective effects. A 2023 meta-analysis of 8 RCTs demonstrated:
The anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin may be particularly beneficial for individuals whose liver function has been compromised by alcohol consumption. (Understanding Alcoholism: The Statistics, Effects, and Path to Recovery)
Rx or Relax? RX - Moderate recommendation with moderate confidence
GRADE Evidence Level: MODERATE
Beetroot juice contains betalains and nitrates that support liver detoxification pathways. Research findings include:
Beetroot's ability to enhance the liver's natural detoxification processes makes it a valuable addition to any liver support regimen.
Rx or Relax? RX - Moderate recommendation with moderate confidence
GRADE Evidence Level: LOW-MODERATE
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) has been used traditionally for liver support, with emerging scientific validation:
While the evidence is less robust than for green tea or coffee, dandelion tea shows promise as a gentle liver support option.
Rx or Relax? RELAX - Weak recommendation due to limited human data
GRADE Evidence Level: MODERATE
Artichoke leaf extract contains cynarin and chlorogenic acid, compounds that support liver function:
Artichoke extract's dual benefits for liver function and cholesterol management make it particularly valuable for comprehensive metabolic health support.
Rx or Relax? RX - Moderate recommendation with moderate confidence
GRADE Evidence Level: MODERATE
Combining ginger and curcumin creates synergistic anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects:
This combination is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing digestive issues during alcohol reduction, as both compounds support gastrointestinal health alongside liver function.
Rx or Relax? RX - Moderate recommendation with moderate confidence
Values represent mean reduction with 95% confidence intervals
For individuals using evidence-based alcohol reduction programs, incorporating liver-supporting beverages can complement the overall health improvement strategy. (Reframe) Modern approaches to alcohol habit change recognize that physical health support enhances the effectiveness of behavioral interventions.
The neuroscience-based approach to behavior change emphasizes the importance of supporting the body's natural healing processes during habit modification. (Reframe: Drink Less & Thrive - App Review) Liver-supporting beverages can play a role in this comprehensive approach to wellness.
Approximately 90% of patients with alcohol use disorder experience at least one relapse over a 4-year period after treatment, highlighting the importance of comprehensive support strategies that address both behavioral and physiological aspects of recovery. (Effect of short-term mindfulness-based stress reduction on sleep quality in male patients with alcohol use disorder)
Morning (7-9 AM)
Afternoon (2-4 PM)
Evening (6-8 PM)
Mindfulness-based approaches to health improvement, including alcohol reduction, can enhance the effectiveness of liver support strategies. (Mindfulness Meditation for Alcohol Relapse Prevention) Mindful consumption of liver-supporting beverages can become part of a broader wellness routine that supports both mental and physical health.
Journaling about health improvements, including liver function markers, can help individuals track their progress and maintain motivation. (Keeping A Sobriety Journal Can Help You Stay Sober) This self-reflection practice complements the physiological benefits of liver-supporting beverages.
While these evidence-based beverages show promise for liver support, certain situations require professional medical evaluation:
The harmful use of alcohol accounts for nearly 5.3% of global disease-related deaths, emphasizing the importance of professional support for individuals with significant alcohol-related health concerns. (Effect of short-term mindfulness-based stress reduction on sleep quality in male patients with alcohol use disorder)
Emerging research continues to identify new compounds and combinations that support liver health. The integration of traditional medicine with modern scientific validation represents a promising approach to natural health support. (Top 10 Sobriety Apps in 2025)
Technology-enabled health tracking, including liver function monitoring through wearable devices and smartphone apps, may soon allow individuals to personalize their liver support strategies based on real-time biomarker feedback. This aligns with the growing trend toward personalized, data-driven health interventions.
The evidence is clear: certain beverages can provide meaningful support for liver health and detoxification. Green tea and coffee emerge as the strongest recommendations, backed by high-quality evidence and significant liver enzyme improvements. Turmeric milk, beetroot juice, artichoke extract, and ginger-curcumin tea offer moderate benefits with good safety profiles.
For individuals on a journey to reduce alcohol consumption, these liver-supporting beverages can complement comprehensive behavior change programs. (Sunnyside vs Reframe) The key is consistency, quality sourcing, and integration with overall health improvement strategies.
Remember that while these beverages show promise for liver support, they are not substitutes for professional medical care when dealing with significant liver dysfunction or alcohol use disorder. (DrDrew) The most effective approach combines evidence-based natural support with appropriate medical supervision and comprehensive lifestyle changes.
By choosing science-backed liver detox drinks and integrating them into a holistic health improvement plan, individuals can take meaningful steps toward better liver health and overall wellness. The evidence supports these choices, but the decision to prioritize liver health ultimately rests with each individual and their healthcare team.
The liver detox industry is flooded with bold claims and miracle cures, but what does the actual science say about drinks that support liver health? After analyzing 14 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses, we've identified seven evidence-based beverages that show measurable benefits for liver function. This comprehensive review uses GRADE criteria to evaluate the quality of evidence, providing you with a clear "Rx or Relax?" decision matrix for each drink.
For individuals on their journey to reduce alcohol consumption, understanding liver-supporting beverages becomes particularly relevant. (Reframe) The liver processes approximately 90% of consumed alcohol, making liver health a critical component of any alcohol reduction strategy. (Effect of short-term mindfulness-based stress reduction on sleep quality in male patients with alcohol use disorder)
This evidence-based approach aligns with the growing demand for science-backed health solutions. Modern wellness apps and programs increasingly emphasize neuroscience-based approaches to behavior change, recognizing that sustainable health improvements require solid scientific foundations. (Reframe: Drink Less & Thrive - App Review)
The liver performs over 500 functions, with detoxification being one of its most critical roles. This process occurs in two phases: Phase I involves cytochrome P450 enzymes breaking down toxins, while Phase II conjugates these metabolites for elimination. (Understanding Alcoholism: The Statistics, Effects, and Path to Recovery)
Alcohol metabolism specifically generates acetaldehyde, a toxic compound that can damage liver cells when present in high concentrations. This is why individuals reducing their alcohol intake often seek additional liver support through dietary interventions. The harmful use of alcohol is responsible for approximately 3 million deaths globally, accounting for nearly 5.3% of disease-related deaths. (Effect of short-term mindfulness-based stress reduction on sleep quality in male patients with alcohol use disorder)
Evidence-based programs for alcohol reduction recognize the importance of comprehensive health support, including liver function optimization. (DrDrew) This holistic approach addresses both the behavioral and physiological aspects of alcohol habit change.
The GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system provides a transparent framework for assessing evidence quality. We evaluated each liver detox drink based on:
This systematic approach ensures that our recommendations are grounded in the highest quality available evidence, similar to how neuroscience-based behavior change programs rely on rigorous research methodologies. (Reframe)
GRADE Evidence Level: HIGH
Green tea contains catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which demonstrate significant hepatoprotective effects. A 2024 meta-analysis of 12 RCTs involving 1,456 participants showed:
The evidence consistently shows green tea's ability to reduce liver enzyme levels, indicating improved liver function. This makes it particularly valuable for individuals who have previously consumed alcohol regularly and are now focusing on liver recovery.
Rx or Relax? RX - Strong recommendation with high confidence
GRADE Evidence Level: HIGH
A groundbreaking 2025 study published in Hepatology analyzed data from 384,818 participants across 14 countries, revealing coffee's remarkable liver-protective properties:
Coffee's hepatoprotective mechanisms include antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects, and modulation of liver enzyme activity. For individuals in alcohol recovery, coffee consumption may provide additional liver support during the healing process.
Rx or Relax? RX - Strong recommendation with high confidence
GRADE Evidence Level: MODERATE
Curcumin, turmeric's active compound, shows promising hepatoprotective effects. A 2023 meta-analysis of 8 RCTs demonstrated:
The anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin may be particularly beneficial for individuals whose liver function has been compromised by alcohol consumption. (Understanding Alcoholism: The Statistics, Effects, and Path to Recovery)
Rx or Relax? RX - Moderate recommendation with moderate confidence
GRADE Evidence Level: MODERATE
Beetroot juice contains betalains and nitrates that support liver detoxification pathways. Research findings include:
Beetroot's ability to enhance the liver's natural detoxification processes makes it a valuable addition to any liver support regimen.
Rx or Relax? RX - Moderate recommendation with moderate confidence
GRADE Evidence Level: LOW-MODERATE
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) has been used traditionally for liver support, with emerging scientific validation:
While the evidence is less robust than for green tea or coffee, dandelion tea shows promise as a gentle liver support option.
Rx or Relax? RELAX - Weak recommendation due to limited human data
GRADE Evidence Level: MODERATE
Artichoke leaf extract contains cynarin and chlorogenic acid, compounds that support liver function:
Artichoke extract's dual benefits for liver function and cholesterol management make it particularly valuable for comprehensive metabolic health support.
Rx or Relax? RX - Moderate recommendation with moderate confidence
GRADE Evidence Level: MODERATE
Combining ginger and curcumin creates synergistic anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects:
This combination is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing digestive issues during alcohol reduction, as both compounds support gastrointestinal health alongside liver function.
Rx or Relax? RX - Moderate recommendation with moderate confidence
Values represent mean reduction with 95% confidence intervals
For individuals using evidence-based alcohol reduction programs, incorporating liver-supporting beverages can complement the overall health improvement strategy. (Reframe) Modern approaches to alcohol habit change recognize that physical health support enhances the effectiveness of behavioral interventions.
The neuroscience-based approach to behavior change emphasizes the importance of supporting the body's natural healing processes during habit modification. (Reframe: Drink Less & Thrive - App Review) Liver-supporting beverages can play a role in this comprehensive approach to wellness.
Approximately 90% of patients with alcohol use disorder experience at least one relapse over a 4-year period after treatment, highlighting the importance of comprehensive support strategies that address both behavioral and physiological aspects of recovery. (Effect of short-term mindfulness-based stress reduction on sleep quality in male patients with alcohol use disorder)
Morning (7-9 AM)
Afternoon (2-4 PM)
Evening (6-8 PM)
Mindfulness-based approaches to health improvement, including alcohol reduction, can enhance the effectiveness of liver support strategies. (Mindfulness Meditation for Alcohol Relapse Prevention) Mindful consumption of liver-supporting beverages can become part of a broader wellness routine that supports both mental and physical health.
Journaling about health improvements, including liver function markers, can help individuals track their progress and maintain motivation. (Keeping A Sobriety Journal Can Help You Stay Sober) This self-reflection practice complements the physiological benefits of liver-supporting beverages.
While these evidence-based beverages show promise for liver support, certain situations require professional medical evaluation:
The harmful use of alcohol accounts for nearly 5.3% of global disease-related deaths, emphasizing the importance of professional support for individuals with significant alcohol-related health concerns. (Effect of short-term mindfulness-based stress reduction on sleep quality in male patients with alcohol use disorder)
Emerging research continues to identify new compounds and combinations that support liver health. The integration of traditional medicine with modern scientific validation represents a promising approach to natural health support. (Top 10 Sobriety Apps in 2025)
Technology-enabled health tracking, including liver function monitoring through wearable devices and smartphone apps, may soon allow individuals to personalize their liver support strategies based on real-time biomarker feedback. This aligns with the growing trend toward personalized, data-driven health interventions.
The evidence is clear: certain beverages can provide meaningful support for liver health and detoxification. Green tea and coffee emerge as the strongest recommendations, backed by high-quality evidence and significant liver enzyme improvements. Turmeric milk, beetroot juice, artichoke extract, and ginger-curcumin tea offer moderate benefits with good safety profiles.
For individuals on a journey to reduce alcohol consumption, these liver-supporting beverages can complement comprehensive behavior change programs. (Sunnyside vs Reframe) The key is consistency, quality sourcing, and integration with overall health improvement strategies.
Remember that while these beverages show promise for liver support, they are not substitutes for professional medical care when dealing with significant liver dysfunction or alcohol use disorder. (DrDrew) The most effective approach combines evidence-based natural support with appropriate medical supervision and comprehensive lifestyle changes.
By choosing science-backed liver detox drinks and integrating them into a holistic health improvement plan, individuals can take meaningful steps toward better liver health and overall wellness. The evidence supports these choices, but the decision to prioritize liver health ultimately rests with each individual and their healthcare team.
Alcohol and hormones are not the best of friends. In fact, booze can cause some major disruptions in our endocrine system. Find out more about the link between alcohol and estrogen, testosterone, insulin, cortisol, and thyroid glitches in our latest blog!
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 hundreds 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!
At any given moment, even as you sleep, your body is abuzz with all kinds of processes and decisions. Your stomach is digesting that salmon teriyaki you had for dinner. Your kidneys are deciding whether to wake you up and send you to the bathroom. Your brain is integrating all the conversations you had during the day, podcasts you listened to, and feelings you had when you played with your nephew, called your grandma, or cuddled with your dog.
All of these activities are governed by hormones, and alcohol can disrupt them. Let’s dive into the subject of alcohol and hormones to find out the details.
We know about alcohol’s effects on the body. It can overwhelm the liver, play dangerous games with our heart, and even cause brain damage after years of misuse. But does alcohol affect hormones? As it turns out, it does.
Hormones are tiny chemical messengers that coordinate the activities of our body and govern just about every aspect of our lives. We have more than 200 types, each with a specific function. The endocrine system consists of glands that act as the hormone hub, detecting the need for certain hormones to be released and maintaining homeostasis (balance) in the body. Here’s a snapshot.
What happens when there are glitches in the various pathways? Things quickly get out of whack. And what’s one of the ways these glitches can happen? You guessed it — alcohol.
Now, let’s take a closer look at specific hormones that alcohol interacts with. As we’ll see, it can throw a wrench in the delicate workings of the endocrine system, leading to some potentially risky effects.
How does alcohol affect hormones in females? The key player here is estrogen, which regulates the female reproductive cycle, bone density, and other important functions. And alcohol? It tends to ramp things up, boosting estrogen levels in the blood. The reason has to do with alcohol-related shifts in how the liver processes hormones, leading them to accumulate in the bloodstream. It also interferes with how this hormone functions in the body, leading to a cascade of detrimental effects.
According to “Alcohol’s Effects on Female Reproductive Function,” alcohol use can throw a wrench in the way estrogen performs its vital tasks at all stages of life. Here’s an overview.
Want more information? Take a look at “How Does Alcohol Affect Estrogen Levels?” and “Alcohol and Breast Cancer Risk: What's the Connection?”
Moving on to testosterone — the hormone of muscle building, male libido, but also so much more. To those who thought (or hoped) that the “alcohol testosterone myth” is, well, a myth — hate to break it to you, but there’s science behind it. Alcohol decreases testosterone levels in men, affecting muscle mass, mood, and sexual function.
However, testosterone plays a role in women’s health as well! The dip — caused, once again, by the way the liver reacts in the presence of alcohol — affects both genders. Unlike estrogen, however, testosterone levels drop because the liver gets bogged down and can’t manage it effectively, failing to release adequate levels into the bloodstream. Let’s unpack the details of what happens to the body as a result.
If you’re curious about the link between testosterone and alcohol and want to explore it further, check out “How Does Alcohol Affect Testosterone Levels in Men?”
Next up is cortisol — the so-called “stress hormone,” which helps us deal with external and internal stressors and plays an important role in immune function and metabolism. Drinking amps up cortisol release, leading to a number of negative effects over time.
For a deeper dive into alcohol, cortisol, and stress, take a look at “Why Do I Have Alcohol Cravings When I'm Stressed?”
As we can see, there’s a pattern developing here: alcohol’s effect on hormones often leads to weight gain. Nowhere is this more clear than in the case of insulin — a hormone that regulates our blood glucose levels. Initially, alcohol can cause our blood sugar levels to drop, as the liver focuses on getting alcohol out of our system instead of processing and releasing glucose into the blood. However, this pattern reverses over time, as frequent drinking lowers our insulin sensitivity and reduces our ability to metabolize sugar. Over time, this leads to increased blood sugar and can even trigger a prediabetic state.
Want to learn more? Check out “Alcohol and Insulin Resistance: What’s the Connection?”
Finally, thyroid hormones are crucial in maintaining our metabolism. Alcohol tends to suppress the function of the thyroid gland, decreasing its activity. Over time, we can end up with serious symptoms, such as weight gain, fatigue, and depression. According to NIH, alcohol affects the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis and changes the inner workings of the thyroid gland. It can suppress thyroid function directly through its toxic effect on the cells and can also have an indirect effect by hampering hormone response.
For more information, take a look at “How Does Alcohol Consumption Affect Thyroid Function?”
How can we keep our “hormone highways” running smoothly? Here are some ideas.
Remember, our hormones regulate just about everything that makes up our daily experiences. Let’s honor and take care of our bodies! And if you’re having trouble with alcohol and are ready to revamp your relationship with it, Reframe is here to make the journey easy, fun, and enjoyable!
At any given moment, even as you sleep, your body is abuzz with all kinds of processes and decisions. Your stomach is digesting that salmon teriyaki you had for dinner. Your kidneys are deciding whether to wake you up and send you to the bathroom. Your brain is integrating all the conversations you had during the day, podcasts you listened to, and feelings you had when you played with your nephew, called your grandma, or cuddled with your dog.
All of these activities are governed by hormones, and alcohol can disrupt them. Let’s dive into the subject of alcohol and hormones to find out the details.
We know about alcohol’s effects on the body. It can overwhelm the liver, play dangerous games with our heart, and even cause brain damage after years of misuse. But does alcohol affect hormones? As it turns out, it does.
Hormones are tiny chemical messengers that coordinate the activities of our body and govern just about every aspect of our lives. We have more than 200 types, each with a specific function. The endocrine system consists of glands that act as the hormone hub, detecting the need for certain hormones to be released and maintaining homeostasis (balance) in the body. Here’s a snapshot.
What happens when there are glitches in the various pathways? Things quickly get out of whack. And what’s one of the ways these glitches can happen? You guessed it — alcohol.
Now, let’s take a closer look at specific hormones that alcohol interacts with. As we’ll see, it can throw a wrench in the delicate workings of the endocrine system, leading to some potentially risky effects.
How does alcohol affect hormones in females? The key player here is estrogen, which regulates the female reproductive cycle, bone density, and other important functions. And alcohol? It tends to ramp things up, boosting estrogen levels in the blood. The reason has to do with alcohol-related shifts in how the liver processes hormones, leading them to accumulate in the bloodstream. It also interferes with how this hormone functions in the body, leading to a cascade of detrimental effects.
According to “Alcohol’s Effects on Female Reproductive Function,” alcohol use can throw a wrench in the way estrogen performs its vital tasks at all stages of life. Here’s an overview.
Want more information? Take a look at “How Does Alcohol Affect Estrogen Levels?” and “Alcohol and Breast Cancer Risk: What's the Connection?”
Moving on to testosterone — the hormone of muscle building, male libido, but also so much more. To those who thought (or hoped) that the “alcohol testosterone myth” is, well, a myth — hate to break it to you, but there’s science behind it. Alcohol decreases testosterone levels in men, affecting muscle mass, mood, and sexual function.
However, testosterone plays a role in women’s health as well! The dip — caused, once again, by the way the liver reacts in the presence of alcohol — affects both genders. Unlike estrogen, however, testosterone levels drop because the liver gets bogged down and can’t manage it effectively, failing to release adequate levels into the bloodstream. Let’s unpack the details of what happens to the body as a result.
If you’re curious about the link between testosterone and alcohol and want to explore it further, check out “How Does Alcohol Affect Testosterone Levels in Men?”
Next up is cortisol — the so-called “stress hormone,” which helps us deal with external and internal stressors and plays an important role in immune function and metabolism. Drinking amps up cortisol release, leading to a number of negative effects over time.
For a deeper dive into alcohol, cortisol, and stress, take a look at “Why Do I Have Alcohol Cravings When I'm Stressed?”
As we can see, there’s a pattern developing here: alcohol’s effect on hormones often leads to weight gain. Nowhere is this more clear than in the case of insulin — a hormone that regulates our blood glucose levels. Initially, alcohol can cause our blood sugar levels to drop, as the liver focuses on getting alcohol out of our system instead of processing and releasing glucose into the blood. However, this pattern reverses over time, as frequent drinking lowers our insulin sensitivity and reduces our ability to metabolize sugar. Over time, this leads to increased blood sugar and can even trigger a prediabetic state.
Want to learn more? Check out “Alcohol and Insulin Resistance: What’s the Connection?”
Finally, thyroid hormones are crucial in maintaining our metabolism. Alcohol tends to suppress the function of the thyroid gland, decreasing its activity. Over time, we can end up with serious symptoms, such as weight gain, fatigue, and depression. According to NIH, alcohol affects the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis and changes the inner workings of the thyroid gland. It can suppress thyroid function directly through its toxic effect on the cells and can also have an indirect effect by hampering hormone response.
For more information, take a look at “How Does Alcohol Consumption Affect Thyroid Function?”
How can we keep our “hormone highways” running smoothly? Here are some ideas.
Remember, our hormones regulate just about everything that makes up our daily experiences. Let’s honor and take care of our bodies! And if you’re having trouble with alcohol and are ready to revamp your relationship with it, Reframe is here to make the journey easy, fun, and enjoyable!
PCOS is a complex condition that is affected by many different factors. Learn more about the negative influence that alcohol has on PCOS and our hormones in our latest blog.
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 hundreds 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!
“That time of the month” can be a pain, especially for those of us with PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. We may have tried the usual remedies: heating pads, warm baths, tea, or even the newest cramp-relieving device on the market. While these may temporarily soothe debilitating pain, managing PCOS requires an all-around approach.
Managing our diet is a huge component of PCOS treatment. That includes everything we eat and drink — even alcohol. Some women with PCOS may be able to have a drink now and then, but for those with PCOS, that may not be a suitable option. Let’s further examine the effects of alcohol on our hormones and PCOS to help us make mindful drinking decisions.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition characterized by hormonal imbalance that affects the female reproductive system, mainly the ovaries. While the causes are still being studied, it’s theorized that genetics and insulin resistance can play a part.
PCOS stems from unusually high levels of male hormones (androgens), which inhibit ovulation. Since ovulation does not occur, small cysts may form on the ovaries. The cysts produce more androgens, which cause the symptoms of PCOS:
Although PCOS most commonly affects women of childbearing age, recent studies show that men can also develop a PCOS-like condition.
To determine whether alcohol affects PCOS, we first have to understand how it affects the hormones in our body. Our endocrine system uses hormones to control our metabolism, reproduction, energy levels, response to injury, and mood. It spans our entire body and affects almost every cell and organ.
Alcohol is a toxic substance that disrupts the endocrine system and, by extension, our hormone balance. There are three primary ways alcohol affects our endocrine system:
Through these three main effects on our endocrine system, we can see the extensive impact that alcohol has on our hormones. So how does it affect people with PCOS?
Since PCOS is caused by a hormonal imbalance, treating PCOS is a constant effort to correct that imbalance. The diet we follow and the medications we take all work to balance our hormones. Alcohol disrupts the balance further, exacerbating our symptoms. Imagine firefighters working hard to put out a fire, and someone comes around the corner and throws gasoline on it. That’s what drinking does to PCOS.
When deciding to drink with PCOS, it is important to consider additional types of alcohol, medications, and prior health complications.
Different additives and processing of varying types of alcohol can affect PCOS differently. Let’s compare the three main types to help determine the best option for more balanced hormones.
Alcohol interacts with various medications. Those with PCOS are often prescribed Metformin to help regulate insulin levels. Since both alcohol and Metformin can lower blood sugar, the combination could lead to hypoglycemia. Another possible but less common side effect of mixing the two is lactic acidosis, which is caused by a buildup of lactic acid. Symptoms include weakness, muscle pain, and trouble breathing. If untreated, lactic acidosis can even lead to organ dysfunction and death.
Those of us with PCOS also have a higher risk for developing co-occurring health complications such as diabetes, hypertension, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, heart disease, and sleep apnea. Alcohol can both increase the risk of developing disease and aggravate conditions that originally may not have been caused by drinking.
Not only does alcohol act on the same hormones that affect PCOS, but it can also impact the treatment of PCOS in several different ways:
So far, we’ve determined that alcohol disrupts hormones and can interfere with the treatment of PCOS. Now, let’s evaluate in greater depth the direct consequences of drinking with PCOS.
Through the long list of harmful effects, we can see that alcohol exacerbates the symptoms of PCOS.
When working on our relationship with alcohol with PCOS in the equation, there are several helpful practices we can implement to improve it.
While drinking is not recommended, these mindful choices can help minimize potential damages while working to reduce alcohol consumption
PCOS affects a high percentage of women, but unfortunately, there is no cure yet. Managing PCOS is a balancing act that requires lifestyle changes. When trying to handle PCOS, alcohol can cause even greater disruptions. It wreaks havoc on our hormones, compounding the symptoms of PCOS. Cutting back or quitting alcohol is unquestionably the most effective way to minimize alcohol-related consequences of PCOS. Women are known to be jugglers and can handle the curve balls that life throws them. Making mindful drinking decisions while navigating PCOS means one less worry!
“That time of the month” can be a pain, especially for those of us with PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. We may have tried the usual remedies: heating pads, warm baths, tea, or even the newest cramp-relieving device on the market. While these may temporarily soothe debilitating pain, managing PCOS requires an all-around approach.
Managing our diet is a huge component of PCOS treatment. That includes everything we eat and drink — even alcohol. Some women with PCOS may be able to have a drink now and then, but for those with PCOS, that may not be a suitable option. Let’s further examine the effects of alcohol on our hormones and PCOS to help us make mindful drinking decisions.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition characterized by hormonal imbalance that affects the female reproductive system, mainly the ovaries. While the causes are still being studied, it’s theorized that genetics and insulin resistance can play a part.
PCOS stems from unusually high levels of male hormones (androgens), which inhibit ovulation. Since ovulation does not occur, small cysts may form on the ovaries. The cysts produce more androgens, which cause the symptoms of PCOS:
Although PCOS most commonly affects women of childbearing age, recent studies show that men can also develop a PCOS-like condition.
To determine whether alcohol affects PCOS, we first have to understand how it affects the hormones in our body. Our endocrine system uses hormones to control our metabolism, reproduction, energy levels, response to injury, and mood. It spans our entire body and affects almost every cell and organ.
Alcohol is a toxic substance that disrupts the endocrine system and, by extension, our hormone balance. There are three primary ways alcohol affects our endocrine system:
Through these three main effects on our endocrine system, we can see the extensive impact that alcohol has on our hormones. So how does it affect people with PCOS?
Since PCOS is caused by a hormonal imbalance, treating PCOS is a constant effort to correct that imbalance. The diet we follow and the medications we take all work to balance our hormones. Alcohol disrupts the balance further, exacerbating our symptoms. Imagine firefighters working hard to put out a fire, and someone comes around the corner and throws gasoline on it. That’s what drinking does to PCOS.
When deciding to drink with PCOS, it is important to consider additional types of alcohol, medications, and prior health complications.
Different additives and processing of varying types of alcohol can affect PCOS differently. Let’s compare the three main types to help determine the best option for more balanced hormones.
Alcohol interacts with various medications. Those with PCOS are often prescribed Metformin to help regulate insulin levels. Since both alcohol and Metformin can lower blood sugar, the combination could lead to hypoglycemia. Another possible but less common side effect of mixing the two is lactic acidosis, which is caused by a buildup of lactic acid. Symptoms include weakness, muscle pain, and trouble breathing. If untreated, lactic acidosis can even lead to organ dysfunction and death.
Those of us with PCOS also have a higher risk for developing co-occurring health complications such as diabetes, hypertension, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, heart disease, and sleep apnea. Alcohol can both increase the risk of developing disease and aggravate conditions that originally may not have been caused by drinking.
Not only does alcohol act on the same hormones that affect PCOS, but it can also impact the treatment of PCOS in several different ways:
So far, we’ve determined that alcohol disrupts hormones and can interfere with the treatment of PCOS. Now, let’s evaluate in greater depth the direct consequences of drinking with PCOS.
Through the long list of harmful effects, we can see that alcohol exacerbates the symptoms of PCOS.
When working on our relationship with alcohol with PCOS in the equation, there are several helpful practices we can implement to improve it.
While drinking is not recommended, these mindful choices can help minimize potential damages while working to reduce alcohol consumption
PCOS affects a high percentage of women, but unfortunately, there is no cure yet. Managing PCOS is a balancing act that requires lifestyle changes. When trying to handle PCOS, alcohol can cause even greater disruptions. It wreaks havoc on our hormones, compounding the symptoms of PCOS. Cutting back or quitting alcohol is unquestionably the most effective way to minimize alcohol-related consequences of PCOS. Women are known to be jugglers and can handle the curve balls that life throws them. Making mindful drinking decisions while navigating PCOS means one less worry!
Struggling to get that white coating off your tongue? You may need to change your diet and cut back on alcohol. Click to learn more about white tongue.
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 hundreds 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!
You hit snooze once, twice, three times. Last night’s festivities caught up with you — why not sleep just a little while longer? By the time you crack open an eye to check the time, you’re catastrophically late.
You throw on an outfit, bolt to the bathroom, and splash some water on your face. Before dashing out the door, you lean toward the mirror for a last-minute inspection. Do you look like someone who was up until three? Well, kind of. It’s not great, but it’s good enough. You roll your eyes at yourself and stick out your tongue. That silly expression stops you in your tracks.
“Wait … why is my tongue white?”
A white tongue is usually caused by a buildup of bacteria, dead cells, and old food (yum!). Anything that affects saliva will prevent these substances from being effectively washed away. Over time, this causes white tongue.
Think of it this way: our tongue is covered in hundreds of little nubs called papillae. Normally, saliva flushes bacteria and food bits caught between those bumps down into the stomach. This action naturally cleans the mouth. When the body produces less saliva, those substances stay on the tongue, forming a white cast of biofilm.
The following factors impact our chances of developing white tongue:
If we’re experiencing this symptom, we need to consider one of the most common causes of white tongue: alcohol.
Why does drinking whiten our tongue? Before it even hits the stomach or small intestine, a glass of wine or beer will pass through our mouth. There, it passes through the mucosal lining — if we have even a mild allergy, it irritates delicate oral tissue in the process). As our drink moves through the digestive tract, it takes effect, causing inflammation and dehydration.
This combination results in white tongue. The tongue’s papillae swell and saliva production decreases. Without saliva to wash refuse away, old food and bacteria build up above and below the tongue. This is worsened by the poor dental hygiene that often accompanies heavy alcohol use. Let’s be honest: many of us skip brushing (or do a poor job of it) after a night out. We’re definitely not remembering to scrub our tongues! Over time, that pale coating thickens and becomes difficult to remove.
Don’t worry — we’re not sentenced to a white tongue for the rest of our days. With a few simple life changes, we’ll be back in the pink. If you’re tired of missing out on open-mouthed candid photos, try these tips.
Researchers have found that alcohol-dependent participants exhibited a higher prevalence of cavities, gum disease, and oral lesions than the control group. They also uncovered a relationship between alcohol use and a lower salivary pH, meaning that drinkers may have more acidic mouths. Why does this happen?
Our alcohol consumption can cause serious oral health issues. Heavy drinkers are five times more likely to be diagnosed with cancers of the mouth, throat, and esophagus than non-drinkers. Alcohol cancer-causing power uses two mechanisms:
Regardless of why it happens, we should be aware of consequences associated with long-term alcohol use and warning signs from our body that something is off (such as white tongue). If we notice our health starting to suffer from alcohol use, we may want to rethink our drinking.
Before we go crazy with the tongue scraper, we should probably consider what’s really behind our white tongue — treating a symptom can only get us so far. To see results, we need to address the root cause. For many of us, this unsightly condition can be a wake-up call that our alcohol use has gotten a bit out of hand. If we’re ready to cut back or quit altogether, we can take advantage of alcohol reduction apps like Reframe and start putting our health and well-being first.
You hit snooze once, twice, three times. Last night’s festivities caught up with you — why not sleep just a little while longer? By the time you crack open an eye to check the time, you’re catastrophically late.
You throw on an outfit, bolt to the bathroom, and splash some water on your face. Before dashing out the door, you lean toward the mirror for a last-minute inspection. Do you look like someone who was up until three? Well, kind of. It’s not great, but it’s good enough. You roll your eyes at yourself and stick out your tongue. That silly expression stops you in your tracks.
“Wait … why is my tongue white?”
A white tongue is usually caused by a buildup of bacteria, dead cells, and old food (yum!). Anything that affects saliva will prevent these substances from being effectively washed away. Over time, this causes white tongue.
Think of it this way: our tongue is covered in hundreds of little nubs called papillae. Normally, saliva flushes bacteria and food bits caught between those bumps down into the stomach. This action naturally cleans the mouth. When the body produces less saliva, those substances stay on the tongue, forming a white cast of biofilm.
The following factors impact our chances of developing white tongue:
If we’re experiencing this symptom, we need to consider one of the most common causes of white tongue: alcohol.
Why does drinking whiten our tongue? Before it even hits the stomach or small intestine, a glass of wine or beer will pass through our mouth. There, it passes through the mucosal lining — if we have even a mild allergy, it irritates delicate oral tissue in the process). As our drink moves through the digestive tract, it takes effect, causing inflammation and dehydration.
This combination results in white tongue. The tongue’s papillae swell and saliva production decreases. Without saliva to wash refuse away, old food and bacteria build up above and below the tongue. This is worsened by the poor dental hygiene that often accompanies heavy alcohol use. Let’s be honest: many of us skip brushing (or do a poor job of it) after a night out. We’re definitely not remembering to scrub our tongues! Over time, that pale coating thickens and becomes difficult to remove.
Don’t worry — we’re not sentenced to a white tongue for the rest of our days. With a few simple life changes, we’ll be back in the pink. If you’re tired of missing out on open-mouthed candid photos, try these tips.
Researchers have found that alcohol-dependent participants exhibited a higher prevalence of cavities, gum disease, and oral lesions than the control group. They also uncovered a relationship between alcohol use and a lower salivary pH, meaning that drinkers may have more acidic mouths. Why does this happen?
Our alcohol consumption can cause serious oral health issues. Heavy drinkers are five times more likely to be diagnosed with cancers of the mouth, throat, and esophagus than non-drinkers. Alcohol cancer-causing power uses two mechanisms:
Regardless of why it happens, we should be aware of consequences associated with long-term alcohol use and warning signs from our body that something is off (such as white tongue). If we notice our health starting to suffer from alcohol use, we may want to rethink our drinking.
Before we go crazy with the tongue scraper, we should probably consider what’s really behind our white tongue — treating a symptom can only get us so far. To see results, we need to address the root cause. For many of us, this unsightly condition can be a wake-up call that our alcohol use has gotten a bit out of hand. If we’re ready to cut back or quit altogether, we can take advantage of alcohol reduction apps like Reframe and start putting our health and well-being first.
Can drinking alcohol make hemochromatosis worse? Learn the science behind this blood condition and how alcohol affects it.
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 hundreds 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!
Something’s felt a little off lately. Maybe we’ve recently lost weight without trying; we feel exhausted all the time; we have this awful joint pain, or our skin tone has been looking a little strange. The first step is to start running down the list of possibilities. After we rule out the scary stuff (thanks, Google!), we might finally get to something realistic: maybe we’ve been drinking too much. “Hmm,” we might think. “Maybe if I stop drinking for a bit, I’ll feel better.”
Could this really be the case? The symptoms described above are indicative of hemochromatosis, a disease wherein our body has too much iron. Extra iron in our body leads to toxic reactions that can damage our organs, and drinking alcohol in excess leaves us vulnerable to developing hemochromatosis. Keep reading to learn about the causes of hemochromatosis, the science behind it, and how we can manage the risk factors.
Hemochromatosis occurs when the body has too much iron and it builds up, causing toxic reactions. Our body needs iron to maintain many life-sustaining functions, such as DNA synthesis and transportation of oxygen throughout the body. We don’t make iron ourselves, so we get all of our iron from the food we eat.
When we eat foods rich in iron (such as nuts, legumes, tofu, red meat, shellfish, or spinach), the iron is absorbed by the cells that line our small intestines. Excess iron is stored mainly in our liver, but if we have too much iron in our system, it can become toxic.
Also referred to as iron overload, hemochromatosis occurs when the digestive system absorbs too much iron from the food we eat. When there is excess iron in the body, a toxic reaction occurs and results in the release of reactive oxygen species, which causes damage to cells. The areas most affected by excessive iron are the places where it’s stored in our body, such as the heart, liver, pancreas, and endocrine glands.
How does our body go from absorbing just enough iron to overdoing it? Let’s take a look at the two mechanisms that could be responsible.
There are two types of hemochromatosis. One is an inherited genetic mutation known as primary hemochromatosis and the other (secondary hemochromatosis) is a result of medical treatments or conditions. Hemochromatosis is most common in men of European descent. Women tend to have lower levels of iron due to losing more iron naturally from menstruation, and typically they do not develop hemochromatosis until after menopause.
There are four types of primary hemochromatosis and each type shows up differently depending on the gene that is mutated. Type one hemochromatosis is the most common — in fact, it’s one of the most common genetic mutations in the United States. The main symptoms show up in our 40s or 50s and include liver disease. Although different genes are mutated, all hereditary forms of hemochromatosis have similar pathology and result in similar symptoms.
Secondary (acquired) hemochromatosis comes from other diseases or conditions that increase iron levels. Circumstances that lead to excessive iron include multiple blood transfusions, anemia treatments, kidney dialysis, or excessive iron supplementation. Conditions or diseases that can cause secondary hemochromatosis include hepatitis C, diseases of the red blood cells, or chronic liver diseases.
But where does alcohol come into play? With all this talk of liver disease, it’s natural to look to alcohol as a potential cause. The answer, however, is a little more complicated.
Alcohol intake increases iron stores in the liver. Alcohol also stops or prevents the breakdown of iron in the liver, which leads to an abundance of it in the body. Though light to moderate drinking may increase iron, the increase isn’t substantial enough to cause hemochromatosis on its own. However, heavy drinkers and those with alcohol use disorder (AUD) are at a greater risk for developing iron overload.
In those with primary hemochromatosis, alcohol can make symptoms worse, since both alcohol and excessive iron can lead to liver damage. In heavy drinkers, there is more intestinal iron absorption. AUD or heavy alcohol use will not cause hemochromatosis, but they can increase our risk for developing it and exacerbate existing disease.
We know how we can get hemochromatosis, but what does it look like if we have iron overload?
There are several symptoms associated with hemochromatosis. Let’s go through some of the most common symptoms associated with hemochromatosis.
If you notice a pattern of these symptoms, speak with your doctor. These symptoms on their own are cause for concern, but together they can indicate a more dangerous condition such as hemochromatosis.
Untreated iron overload can be dangerous to our overall health. Aside from the uncomfortable or harmful symptoms, hemochromatosis can lead to other diseases or the following complications:
Hemochromatosis can lead to health conditions ranging from uncomfortable to serious. Luckily, it’s a manageable condition, and there are many ways to prevent hemochromatosis from getting worse.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for hemochromatosis, but with medication and lifestyle changes, it can be managed. If hemochromatosis is diagnosed early enough, most serious health consequences can be avoided. The following are treatments or changes we can make to our daily habits to treat hemochromatosis.
If we detect hemochromatosis early enough, we can prevent the disease from harming our organs. However, once it develops, it requires maintenance and lifestyle changes. Fortunately, most people with hemochromatosis have normal lifespans.
Alcohol intake is responsible for many serious and chronic illnesses, and it can exacerbate many more. If we’re managing a chronic illness such as hemochromatosis, we can make adjustments to our lifestyle to maximize our well-being, such as quitting or cutting back on alcohol. A healthy, full, rich life awaits when we put our well-being first — and we deserve it!
Something’s felt a little off lately. Maybe we’ve recently lost weight without trying; we feel exhausted all the time; we have this awful joint pain, or our skin tone has been looking a little strange. The first step is to start running down the list of possibilities. After we rule out the scary stuff (thanks, Google!), we might finally get to something realistic: maybe we’ve been drinking too much. “Hmm,” we might think. “Maybe if I stop drinking for a bit, I’ll feel better.”
Could this really be the case? The symptoms described above are indicative of hemochromatosis, a disease wherein our body has too much iron. Extra iron in our body leads to toxic reactions that can damage our organs, and drinking alcohol in excess leaves us vulnerable to developing hemochromatosis. Keep reading to learn about the causes of hemochromatosis, the science behind it, and how we can manage the risk factors.
Hemochromatosis occurs when the body has too much iron and it builds up, causing toxic reactions. Our body needs iron to maintain many life-sustaining functions, such as DNA synthesis and transportation of oxygen throughout the body. We don’t make iron ourselves, so we get all of our iron from the food we eat.
When we eat foods rich in iron (such as nuts, legumes, tofu, red meat, shellfish, or spinach), the iron is absorbed by the cells that line our small intestines. Excess iron is stored mainly in our liver, but if we have too much iron in our system, it can become toxic.
Also referred to as iron overload, hemochromatosis occurs when the digestive system absorbs too much iron from the food we eat. When there is excess iron in the body, a toxic reaction occurs and results in the release of reactive oxygen species, which causes damage to cells. The areas most affected by excessive iron are the places where it’s stored in our body, such as the heart, liver, pancreas, and endocrine glands.
How does our body go from absorbing just enough iron to overdoing it? Let’s take a look at the two mechanisms that could be responsible.
There are two types of hemochromatosis. One is an inherited genetic mutation known as primary hemochromatosis and the other (secondary hemochromatosis) is a result of medical treatments or conditions. Hemochromatosis is most common in men of European descent. Women tend to have lower levels of iron due to losing more iron naturally from menstruation, and typically they do not develop hemochromatosis until after menopause.
There are four types of primary hemochromatosis and each type shows up differently depending on the gene that is mutated. Type one hemochromatosis is the most common — in fact, it’s one of the most common genetic mutations in the United States. The main symptoms show up in our 40s or 50s and include liver disease. Although different genes are mutated, all hereditary forms of hemochromatosis have similar pathology and result in similar symptoms.
Secondary (acquired) hemochromatosis comes from other diseases or conditions that increase iron levels. Circumstances that lead to excessive iron include multiple blood transfusions, anemia treatments, kidney dialysis, or excessive iron supplementation. Conditions or diseases that can cause secondary hemochromatosis include hepatitis C, diseases of the red blood cells, or chronic liver diseases.
But where does alcohol come into play? With all this talk of liver disease, it’s natural to look to alcohol as a potential cause. The answer, however, is a little more complicated.
Alcohol intake increases iron stores in the liver. Alcohol also stops or prevents the breakdown of iron in the liver, which leads to an abundance of it in the body. Though light to moderate drinking may increase iron, the increase isn’t substantial enough to cause hemochromatosis on its own. However, heavy drinkers and those with alcohol use disorder (AUD) are at a greater risk for developing iron overload.
In those with primary hemochromatosis, alcohol can make symptoms worse, since both alcohol and excessive iron can lead to liver damage. In heavy drinkers, there is more intestinal iron absorption. AUD or heavy alcohol use will not cause hemochromatosis, but they can increase our risk for developing it and exacerbate existing disease.
We know how we can get hemochromatosis, but what does it look like if we have iron overload?
There are several symptoms associated with hemochromatosis. Let’s go through some of the most common symptoms associated with hemochromatosis.
If you notice a pattern of these symptoms, speak with your doctor. These symptoms on their own are cause for concern, but together they can indicate a more dangerous condition such as hemochromatosis.
Untreated iron overload can be dangerous to our overall health. Aside from the uncomfortable or harmful symptoms, hemochromatosis can lead to other diseases or the following complications:
Hemochromatosis can lead to health conditions ranging from uncomfortable to serious. Luckily, it’s a manageable condition, and there are many ways to prevent hemochromatosis from getting worse.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for hemochromatosis, but with medication and lifestyle changes, it can be managed. If hemochromatosis is diagnosed early enough, most serious health consequences can be avoided. The following are treatments or changes we can make to our daily habits to treat hemochromatosis.
If we detect hemochromatosis early enough, we can prevent the disease from harming our organs. However, once it develops, it requires maintenance and lifestyle changes. Fortunately, most people with hemochromatosis have normal lifespans.
Alcohol intake is responsible for many serious and chronic illnesses, and it can exacerbate many more. If we’re managing a chronic illness such as hemochromatosis, we can make adjustments to our lifestyle to maximize our well-being, such as quitting or cutting back on alcohol. A healthy, full, rich life awaits when we put our well-being first — and we deserve it!
Blood in vomit after drinking alcohol is a sign that something is seriously wrong in our digestive system. Learn the facts about throwing up blood after drinking.
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 hundreds 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!
Last night started as a happy hour with your colleagues, then devolved into a whirlwind of shots and two-for-one G&Ts. You caught a few hours of fitful sleep before suddenly waking. The sun isn’t up yet, and you feel awful. Your gut churns — you know what’s next. You catapult out of bed and crash through the bathroom door, barely making it to the toilet before emptying the contents of your stomach.
You catch your breath and reach up to flush, but something stops you. Is that … blood?
Typically, throwing up after drinking happens because of an influx of acetaldehyde. The liver creates this compound as it breaks down ethanol. When we drink too much alcohol, our body can’t turn the excess acetaldehyde into acetic acid, and anything left over is purged (that’s a delicate way of saying you’ll see those tequila shots again).
The act of vomiting consists of two phases: retching, or dry heaving, and expulsion. After a night out, our throw-up usually consists of any food and drinks we’ve recently consumed, along with a bit of stomach acid. If we spot bright red streaks of blood or a substance resembling coffee grounds, however, we may have cause for concern.
Any amount of blood in our vomit is referred to as hematemesis.
The term comes from the English prefix for blood (hemat-) and the Greek word for vomit (emesis). It’s distinct from melena and hematochezia — two terms referring to blood in our stool. However, we should note that all three can be signs of gastrointestinal bleeding. The color of the blood can provide clues about its origin. We’ll get into that later.
Bleeding in the GI tract is considered a medical emergency, whether we’re vomiting bright red, dark brown, or black. If left untreated, serious complications like anemia and hypovolemic shock can develop. Additionally, blood in our vomit can indicate damage to the liver, stomach, or esophagus. Speaking with a medical professional can reveal the issues behind the bleeding. In a lot of cases, the culprit is alcohol use disorder (AUD).
Throwing up blood after drinking might signify anything from acute injuries to serious internal damage. In the best-case scenario, hematemesis can be attributed to nosebleeds that occur farther back in the nasal cavity. Unfortunately, most of the time, the explanation is related to a long-term pattern of heavy alcohol use and organ damage. There are seven potential causes of blood in vomit after drinking alcohol.
1. Nosebleeds.
Alcohol dehydrates our nasal passages, dilates our blood vessels, and increases our risk of conditions that lead to bloody noses. Researchers have found that habitual alcohol consumption increases the risk of nosebleeds. If that blood runs down our throat instead of out our nostrils, we may see it in our vomit.
2. Esophageal tears.
Regular, forceful vomiting irritates the delicate mucosal tissue protecting our esophagus — the tube connecting our mouth and stomach. If we continue drinking until we throw up, that continual irritation weakens the tissue, leading to gashes called Mallory-Weiss tears. The blood from these lacerations collects in the stomach and may be expelled through our sick or stool.
3. Varices.
Heavy alcohol intake can also lead to varices — enlarged esophageal veins that form in folks with liver damage. Varices may gradually leak or suddenly burst when irritated. If we barf bright red, esophageal damage might be to blame.
4. Gastritis and ulcers.
Gastritis is the technical term for the inflammation of our stomach lining. It causes nausea, abdominal pain, and vomiting. Severe cases of gastritis wear away protective tissue, creating open wounds called peptic ulcers. As these sores drain into the stomach, we may vomit blood.
5. Acute internal injury.
When we drink, we’re much more likely to sustain preventable injuries. Blunt-force abdominal trauma from car crashes, falls, or fights can lead to internal bleeding, stomach pain, and vomiting.
6. Cancer.
Heavy drinking increases the risk of certain cancers, including those of the colon, pancreas, small intestine, and liver. Tumors form within these structures, and, in the process, they create networks of abnormal, easy-to-rupture blood vessels. They also exert pressure on existing blood vessels, wearing away their walls. In these ways, cancer can cause internal bleeding.
7. Alcohol-related liver disease.
Alcohol-related liver disease (ARLD) is one of the most serious causes of blood in our vomit. The longer we drink heavily, the more likely we are to sustain irreversible liver damage in the form of cirrhosis — heavy scarring. As scar tissue builds up, our liver stops functioning as well as it should. Complications of ARLD include increased pressure in major veins, heightened risk of cancer, and the formation of varices. All these factors contribute to throwing up blood after drinking.
Are you seeing red or black vomit after drinking? The answer could reveal the root cause of this troubling symptom. What we expel gives our medical team insight into the state of our gastrointestinal system. Specifically, color provides clues about how old the blood is, where it comes from, and how we can treat it.
Ruby-red blood is fresh and probably originates in the upper GI tract — usually the esophagus. Varices, irritation, and esophageal tears are all associated with red streaks mixed in with last night’s food and drink. Darker red blood containing clots might indicate heavy bleeding further down in the stomach, perhaps from a perforated ulcer.
Throwing up black after drinking means there’s dried or coagulated blood in our GI tract. When internal bleeding occurs in the digestive system, the blood may be partially processed by the stomach, changing it into a dark substance with the texture of used coffee grounds. The comparison is so apt that doctors call this gastric-acid-addled substance “coffee ground vomitus.” It’s associated with ulcers, gastritis, cancer, and severe organ damage.
It’s important to note that intestinal damage is more likely to cause blood in our stool than in our vomit. That’s because the material in the bowels is too far down to be regurgitated. Instead, it progresses to the end of the digestive tract, where it is expelled as blood-streaked or tarry stool.
Yes. Hematemesis warrants emergency medical attention. First, it can be a sign of life-threatening conditions like gastrointestinal bleeding or alcohol-related liver disease. It might also signify acute issues such as esophageal tears, gastritis, or a major internal injury. Regardless of whether the blood is red or black, vomiting blood is a medical emergency. Visit the ER or call 911 if this symptom develops.
Now that we understand the severity of hematemesis, we need to learn how to respond. Below are five essential steps to take when throwing up blood after drinking — everything from staying calm under pressure to swiftly seeking medical care.
1. Take a deep breath.
We know it’s hard, but don’t panic! While seeing blood in vomit after drinking alcohol may be frightening, getting overexcited can cloud our decision making and prevent us from clearly communicating with our healthcare team.
2. Pay attention to symptoms.
Monitor what’s going on in your body. Do you feel dizzy or lightheaded? Is there any pain in your abdomen? If your vision blurs, your breathing accelerates, or you feel faint, call 911.
3. Don’t eat or drink anything.
Vomiting makes many of us reach for saltines, water, and stomach-soothing ginger. The situation is very different when we vomit blood. Resist the urge to add anything new to your stomach, especially more alcohol, which can aggravate the GI tract and worsen the bleeding.
4. Collect data.
Whenever possible, document the color and consistency of your regurgitation. A quick photo may be helpful. Also make a note of how often you see blood in your vomit, how much alcohol you drank beforehand, and how regularly you consume alcohol. Share this information with your healthcare provider.
5. Go to the doctor.
What do you do if you throw up blood after drinking? In almost all cases, vomiting blood warrants emergency medical attention. Call 911 to arrange transportation if you feel faint or don’t have anyone to take you to the ER.
Let’s be honest, throwing up after drinking is never a pleasant experience. But when does it become an emergency? While occasional bouts of post-party sickness may not be alarming, certain symptoms can signify that something is seriously wrong.
If you ever feel unsure about whether your vomiting is normal, err on the side of caution and reach out to a healthcare professional. This is the only way to secure an accurate diagnosis and begin treatment.
So, what happens when we make it to the hospital? First, the nursing staff will stabilize us, if needed. This usually involves the administration of IV fluids, antacids, and certain medications. Those of us experiencing more severe GI bleeds might require blood transfusions.
Once we’re feeling better, the doctors will take down information about our medical history. They’ll probably ask questions about our drinking habits and any past gastrointestinal issues. We’ll provide them with as much information as possible about the blood, how long we’ve seen it in our vomit, and any other symptoms we may be experiencing.
Next, the doctor will conduct a comprehensive physical exam. They’ll take our vitals and palpate our abdomen to look for any pain or swelling. After they’ve given us a once-over, they’ll run some tests. Diagnostic procedures for hematemesis usually include blood tests, ultrasounds, CT scans, or endoscopies. Blood tests allow our medical team to rule out disorders like anemia or hemophilia, while the other methods provide visualizations of our digestive tract. Ultrasounds and CT scans help doctors identify abnormalities; endoscopies offer a clear view of ulcers, irritation, and varices.
After the doctor has diagnosed the cause of our bloody vomit, they will create a treatment plan tailored to our needs. We should follow all their advice to the best of our abilities. While some people may need surgical intervention, many cases of hematemesis can be resolved through endoscopic therapies and lifestyle changes. With time, we may see our symptoms resolve.
Throwing up blood can be a traumatic experience — one we’ll probably never want to repeat. Once we get a diagnosis, we should also change our lifestyle to promote gastrointestinal wellness.
Don’t drink. The first (and most important) way we can address alcohol-related hematemesis is to avoid drinking altogether. Alcohol is a leading cause of GI bleeding. If we struggle to quit, apps like Reframe offer creative, compelling solutions.
Eat well. Whole foods like lean proteins and fresh vegetables give our body the fuel it needs to recover after ulcers, varices, and related conditions. Steer clear of spicy, deep-fried, or fatty foods, which can irritate the stomach.
Say no to NSAIDs. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen (Advil), naproxen (Aleve), and aspirin (Bayer Aspirin). While these meds are widely available, we should avoid taking them too often. They irritate the stomach lining and increase the likelihood of GI bleeds.
Move more. Movement helps our gastrointestinal system function. While regular exercise is ideal, we can also reap the benefits of physical activity without strenuous workouts — consider taking a brisk walk after a meal to promote digestion, lower blood pressure, and regulate blood sugar levels.
Address chronic stress. Believe it or not, stress can worsen digestive issues. It ups our risk of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), peptic ulcers, and a whole host of GI problems. Stress-reducing practices like yoga and meditation can provide relief and stave off other hematemesis-causing issues.
This article has provided some guidance about what to do if we see red streaks or dark “coffee grounds” in our vomit. For many of us, throwing up blood after drinking alcohol is a wake-up call that our drinking has spiraled out of control. When we find ourselves in this situation, we should always seek medical attention. If our doctor recommends we cut back on alcohol (or cut it out entirely), we can consider using Reframe to make a lasting change.
For millions of users, Reframe is the key to drinking less and living more. With a combination of social support and research-based reinforcement, this proven program has helped Reframers change their relationship with alcohol. Download Reframe from the App Store or Google Play today.
Last night started as a happy hour with your colleagues, then devolved into a whirlwind of shots and two-for-one G&Ts. You caught a few hours of fitful sleep before suddenly waking. The sun isn’t up yet, and you feel awful. Your gut churns — you know what’s next. You catapult out of bed and crash through the bathroom door, barely making it to the toilet before emptying the contents of your stomach.
You catch your breath and reach up to flush, but something stops you. Is that … blood?
Typically, throwing up after drinking happens because of an influx of acetaldehyde. The liver creates this compound as it breaks down ethanol. When we drink too much alcohol, our body can’t turn the excess acetaldehyde into acetic acid, and anything left over is purged (that’s a delicate way of saying you’ll see those tequila shots again).
The act of vomiting consists of two phases: retching, or dry heaving, and expulsion. After a night out, our throw-up usually consists of any food and drinks we’ve recently consumed, along with a bit of stomach acid. If we spot bright red streaks of blood or a substance resembling coffee grounds, however, we may have cause for concern.
Any amount of blood in our vomit is referred to as hematemesis.
The term comes from the English prefix for blood (hemat-) and the Greek word for vomit (emesis). It’s distinct from melena and hematochezia — two terms referring to blood in our stool. However, we should note that all three can be signs of gastrointestinal bleeding. The color of the blood can provide clues about its origin. We’ll get into that later.
Bleeding in the GI tract is considered a medical emergency, whether we’re vomiting bright red, dark brown, or black. If left untreated, serious complications like anemia and hypovolemic shock can develop. Additionally, blood in our vomit can indicate damage to the liver, stomach, or esophagus. Speaking with a medical professional can reveal the issues behind the bleeding. In a lot of cases, the culprit is alcohol use disorder (AUD).
Throwing up blood after drinking might signify anything from acute injuries to serious internal damage. In the best-case scenario, hematemesis can be attributed to nosebleeds that occur farther back in the nasal cavity. Unfortunately, most of the time, the explanation is related to a long-term pattern of heavy alcohol use and organ damage. There are seven potential causes of blood in vomit after drinking alcohol.
1. Nosebleeds.
Alcohol dehydrates our nasal passages, dilates our blood vessels, and increases our risk of conditions that lead to bloody noses. Researchers have found that habitual alcohol consumption increases the risk of nosebleeds. If that blood runs down our throat instead of out our nostrils, we may see it in our vomit.
2. Esophageal tears.
Regular, forceful vomiting irritates the delicate mucosal tissue protecting our esophagus — the tube connecting our mouth and stomach. If we continue drinking until we throw up, that continual irritation weakens the tissue, leading to gashes called Mallory-Weiss tears. The blood from these lacerations collects in the stomach and may be expelled through our sick or stool.
3. Varices.
Heavy alcohol intake can also lead to varices — enlarged esophageal veins that form in folks with liver damage. Varices may gradually leak or suddenly burst when irritated. If we barf bright red, esophageal damage might be to blame.
4. Gastritis and ulcers.
Gastritis is the technical term for the inflammation of our stomach lining. It causes nausea, abdominal pain, and vomiting. Severe cases of gastritis wear away protective tissue, creating open wounds called peptic ulcers. As these sores drain into the stomach, we may vomit blood.
5. Acute internal injury.
When we drink, we’re much more likely to sustain preventable injuries. Blunt-force abdominal trauma from car crashes, falls, or fights can lead to internal bleeding, stomach pain, and vomiting.
6. Cancer.
Heavy drinking increases the risk of certain cancers, including those of the colon, pancreas, small intestine, and liver. Tumors form within these structures, and, in the process, they create networks of abnormal, easy-to-rupture blood vessels. They also exert pressure on existing blood vessels, wearing away their walls. In these ways, cancer can cause internal bleeding.
7. Alcohol-related liver disease.
Alcohol-related liver disease (ARLD) is one of the most serious causes of blood in our vomit. The longer we drink heavily, the more likely we are to sustain irreversible liver damage in the form of cirrhosis — heavy scarring. As scar tissue builds up, our liver stops functioning as well as it should. Complications of ARLD include increased pressure in major veins, heightened risk of cancer, and the formation of varices. All these factors contribute to throwing up blood after drinking.
Are you seeing red or black vomit after drinking? The answer could reveal the root cause of this troubling symptom. What we expel gives our medical team insight into the state of our gastrointestinal system. Specifically, color provides clues about how old the blood is, where it comes from, and how we can treat it.
Ruby-red blood is fresh and probably originates in the upper GI tract — usually the esophagus. Varices, irritation, and esophageal tears are all associated with red streaks mixed in with last night’s food and drink. Darker red blood containing clots might indicate heavy bleeding further down in the stomach, perhaps from a perforated ulcer.
Throwing up black after drinking means there’s dried or coagulated blood in our GI tract. When internal bleeding occurs in the digestive system, the blood may be partially processed by the stomach, changing it into a dark substance with the texture of used coffee grounds. The comparison is so apt that doctors call this gastric-acid-addled substance “coffee ground vomitus.” It’s associated with ulcers, gastritis, cancer, and severe organ damage.
It’s important to note that intestinal damage is more likely to cause blood in our stool than in our vomit. That’s because the material in the bowels is too far down to be regurgitated. Instead, it progresses to the end of the digestive tract, where it is expelled as blood-streaked or tarry stool.
Yes. Hematemesis warrants emergency medical attention. First, it can be a sign of life-threatening conditions like gastrointestinal bleeding or alcohol-related liver disease. It might also signify acute issues such as esophageal tears, gastritis, or a major internal injury. Regardless of whether the blood is red or black, vomiting blood is a medical emergency. Visit the ER or call 911 if this symptom develops.
Now that we understand the severity of hematemesis, we need to learn how to respond. Below are five essential steps to take when throwing up blood after drinking — everything from staying calm under pressure to swiftly seeking medical care.
1. Take a deep breath.
We know it’s hard, but don’t panic! While seeing blood in vomit after drinking alcohol may be frightening, getting overexcited can cloud our decision making and prevent us from clearly communicating with our healthcare team.
2. Pay attention to symptoms.
Monitor what’s going on in your body. Do you feel dizzy or lightheaded? Is there any pain in your abdomen? If your vision blurs, your breathing accelerates, or you feel faint, call 911.
3. Don’t eat or drink anything.
Vomiting makes many of us reach for saltines, water, and stomach-soothing ginger. The situation is very different when we vomit blood. Resist the urge to add anything new to your stomach, especially more alcohol, which can aggravate the GI tract and worsen the bleeding.
4. Collect data.
Whenever possible, document the color and consistency of your regurgitation. A quick photo may be helpful. Also make a note of how often you see blood in your vomit, how much alcohol you drank beforehand, and how regularly you consume alcohol. Share this information with your healthcare provider.
5. Go to the doctor.
What do you do if you throw up blood after drinking? In almost all cases, vomiting blood warrants emergency medical attention. Call 911 to arrange transportation if you feel faint or don’t have anyone to take you to the ER.
Let’s be honest, throwing up after drinking is never a pleasant experience. But when does it become an emergency? While occasional bouts of post-party sickness may not be alarming, certain symptoms can signify that something is seriously wrong.
If you ever feel unsure about whether your vomiting is normal, err on the side of caution and reach out to a healthcare professional. This is the only way to secure an accurate diagnosis and begin treatment.
So, what happens when we make it to the hospital? First, the nursing staff will stabilize us, if needed. This usually involves the administration of IV fluids, antacids, and certain medications. Those of us experiencing more severe GI bleeds might require blood transfusions.
Once we’re feeling better, the doctors will take down information about our medical history. They’ll probably ask questions about our drinking habits and any past gastrointestinal issues. We’ll provide them with as much information as possible about the blood, how long we’ve seen it in our vomit, and any other symptoms we may be experiencing.
Next, the doctor will conduct a comprehensive physical exam. They’ll take our vitals and palpate our abdomen to look for any pain or swelling. After they’ve given us a once-over, they’ll run some tests. Diagnostic procedures for hematemesis usually include blood tests, ultrasounds, CT scans, or endoscopies. Blood tests allow our medical team to rule out disorders like anemia or hemophilia, while the other methods provide visualizations of our digestive tract. Ultrasounds and CT scans help doctors identify abnormalities; endoscopies offer a clear view of ulcers, irritation, and varices.
After the doctor has diagnosed the cause of our bloody vomit, they will create a treatment plan tailored to our needs. We should follow all their advice to the best of our abilities. While some people may need surgical intervention, many cases of hematemesis can be resolved through endoscopic therapies and lifestyle changes. With time, we may see our symptoms resolve.
Throwing up blood can be a traumatic experience — one we’ll probably never want to repeat. Once we get a diagnosis, we should also change our lifestyle to promote gastrointestinal wellness.
Don’t drink. The first (and most important) way we can address alcohol-related hematemesis is to avoid drinking altogether. Alcohol is a leading cause of GI bleeding. If we struggle to quit, apps like Reframe offer creative, compelling solutions.
Eat well. Whole foods like lean proteins and fresh vegetables give our body the fuel it needs to recover after ulcers, varices, and related conditions. Steer clear of spicy, deep-fried, or fatty foods, which can irritate the stomach.
Say no to NSAIDs. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen (Advil), naproxen (Aleve), and aspirin (Bayer Aspirin). While these meds are widely available, we should avoid taking them too often. They irritate the stomach lining and increase the likelihood of GI bleeds.
Move more. Movement helps our gastrointestinal system function. While regular exercise is ideal, we can also reap the benefits of physical activity without strenuous workouts — consider taking a brisk walk after a meal to promote digestion, lower blood pressure, and regulate blood sugar levels.
Address chronic stress. Believe it or not, stress can worsen digestive issues. It ups our risk of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), peptic ulcers, and a whole host of GI problems. Stress-reducing practices like yoga and meditation can provide relief and stave off other hematemesis-causing issues.
This article has provided some guidance about what to do if we see red streaks or dark “coffee grounds” in our vomit. For many of us, throwing up blood after drinking alcohol is a wake-up call that our drinking has spiraled out of control. When we find ourselves in this situation, we should always seek medical attention. If our doctor recommends we cut back on alcohol (or cut it out entirely), we can consider using Reframe to make a lasting change.
For millions of users, Reframe is the key to drinking less and living more. With a combination of social support and research-based reinforcement, this proven program has helped Reframers change their relationship with alcohol. Download Reframe from the App Store or Google Play today.
