By: Natasha Archary
We’re halfway through the month of October but it’s not too late to take a break from alcohol and see out the rest of the month sober – #OcSober.
This may sound like a big ask to South Africans who went through the most with alcohol bans throughout the various lockdown stages but it’s just two weeks.
Granted, most of the social activities we missed throughout lockdown has finally reached a state of “normal” with bars and the party scene opening up again.
Consider it a detox then for the next two weeks of #OcSober.
Whether you’re trying to cut back on spending money on booze or you’re looking to improve your health, we have a pro sober list for you:
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Sleep better
No hangovers means you wake up feeling refreshed and focused. Intoxicating substances such as alcohol can affect sleep schedules and make it difficult to fall asleep. Better sleep means no mood swings too.
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Healthier eating habits
When under the influence of alcohol, it’s easier to give in to the unhealthy cravings for something sweet, salty or greasy. It’s the standard equation to any alcohol-induced soirée. You have fewer cravings for junk food when you’re sober and this also improves your weight.
Alcohol causes water retention and because of the sugar it contains, contains calories. Do you really want to be drinking your calories?
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You have more money
Being sober this October means you have a little more in your pocket. People who are inebriated often make bad financial decisions often going over budget. Remember the Mzansi gent who spent his rent money on alcohol?
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You don’t get sick often
Alcohol compromises your immune system. It affects various parts of your body, including your organ function. Being sober decreases your risk for health complications and you get sick less frequently.
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Your memory improves
How many times did you wake up after a night of excessive alcohol intake and remember nothing? When you’re sober, you don’t have this issue and wake up alert with a full recollection of what you did the previous night.
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Glowing skin
Say goodbye to dehydrated skin and hello to melanin that pops! Alcohol dehydrates you and this affects your skin, causing it to look dull. Include puffiness and bags under your eyes from the bloating alcohol brings with.
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No more bloating
Unathi spoke about this in-depth on Midday Joy previously with her nutritionist. Alcohol causes bloating and water retention. You feel heavier the day after because it irritates your stomach and forces it to produce more acid.
It might not be easy to make it through the month of October sober but it can be done – #OcSober.
