The Connection Between Alcohol and Gut Health.

Early in my sobriety, I learned how alcohol impacts gut health, and let me tell you, the information was eye-opening! Alcohol can wreak havoc on our digestive systems. It disrupts the balance of gut bacteria, leading to dysbiosis, which is just a fancy way of saying that the good bacteria get outnumbered by the bad. This imbalance can cause inflammation and a host of other health issues.

When I was drinking, I often felt bloated and sluggish, but now that I've ditched the booze, my gut feels so much happier! Without alcohol, my body is better at absorbing nutrients and maintaining a healthy microbiome. It’s incredible how much better I feel physically and mentally since making this change. My choice to stop drinking was definitely in part due to a want to improve my gut health and immune system (more on that in another blog post).

Now that I've embraced this alcohol-free lifestyle, I’ve discovered several ways to support my gut health:

1. Eat Probiotics: Incorporating foods like yogurt has been a game-changer. These foods are packed with beneficial bacteria that help restore balance in my gut.

2. Focus on Prebiotics: Foods like garlic, onions, and bananas are fantastic for feeding those good bacteria. I love adding them to my meals!

3. Stay Hydrated: Water is my best friend (and of course my beloved bare bubbly - lemon water)! Staying hydrated helps flush out toxins and keeps everything running smoothly. I also have a new love for kombucha which helps not only with hydration but gut health too!

4. Exercise Regularly: Moving my body not only boosts my mood but also helps with digestion. Whether it’s a walk in nature, a morning run or yoga, staying active is key.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can negatively impact gut health, so I’ve been practicing mindfulness and enjoying some quiet time to recharge.

6. Consider Supplements: Sometimes I take probiotic supplements to give my gut an extra boost as I continue this journey.

The transformation I've experienced has been profound! Life is so much more bubbly without alcohol—full of clarity, energy, and joy. My sleep has improved dramatically; no more restless nights filled with hangovers! Instead, I wake up refreshed and ready to tackle the day (most days). I am not saying life is suddenly perfect, it is not, and this journey continues but at 217 days I definitely see the difference and I can’t wait to see what is next.

If my journey can inspire even one person to consider an alcohol-free lifestyle or explore how it can improve their gut health, then Bare Bubbly has achieved its purpose. Remember, it’s okay to take things one day at a time; every step counts!

Thank you for being part of this journey with me. I’m thrilled to share more insights about living sober and how it continues to shape my life for the better. Here’s to embracing our bubbly selves together!

~BB 🍋