Abstaining from alcohol can significantly reduce eye puffiness and dark circles. Alcohol causes the body to retain water and dilate blood vessels, leading to swollen eyes and dark circles upon waking. Quitting alcohol allows the body to re-regulate and improves sleep quality, resulting in less tired and more refreshed eyes.

Skin hydration and elasticity improve when alcohol is removed from the diet. Alcohol is a diuretic, increasing urination and leading to dehydration, which can leave skin dry and dull. By stopping alcohol intake, the skin's ability to retain moisture improves. Extended abstinence also provides time for skin regeneration and recovery, as alcohol damages collagen and elastin, crucial proteins for skin elasticity.

Reducing alcohol intake helps diminish wrinkles and crow's feet. The liver's breakdown of alcohol generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), which cause oxidative stress, damage skin cells, and accelerate aging. Alcohol also promotes glycation, degrading collagen and elastin, contributing to wrinkles, sagging skin, and a higher risk of age-related conditions like diabetes. Within one month of quitting alcohol, many notice a reduction in wrinkles and smoother skin.

Achieving a more even skin tone is another benefit. Alcohol can cause blotchiness and uneven skin color by affecting blood vessels. Discontinuing alcoholic beverages leads to a more uniform skin tone and a noticeable reduction in redness.

While some individuals consume alcohol to alleviate stress, its effects can be counterproductive. Eliminating alcohol helps reduce stress, improves skin health, and can lessen the incidence of acne and eczema.

Beyond skin benefits, alcohol harms overall health. It suppresses the immune system, raising the risk of pneumonia and sepsis. Alcohol also negatively affects digestion by altering stomach acid secretion and reducing the efficacy of food-digesting enzymes, which can result in bloating and discomfort.

Health guidelines recommend that men consume no more than two units of alcohol daily (equivalent to two-thirds of a 330 ml can of beer or one 30 ml shot of liquor), and women no more than one unit per day. Additionally, individuals should aim for at least two alcohol-free days each week. It is advisable to avoid drinking on an empty stomach, ensure proper nutrition, and stay hydrated. For optimal overall health, the best advice is to abstain from alcohol entirely.

Le Nguyen (According to Times of India)