ALCOHOL, “Is it Really Worth It?”
I saw a post the other day from Dr. Nicole LaPera, “Alcohol is the only drug that causes generational destruction but is marketed as celebrated.” She asks us to consider if we have a healthy relationship with alcohol? “Alcohol is how many generations have self-medicated. It allows a person to not feel the discomfort in their body. To not hear the racing thoughts. And to numb the feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth. If shuts down the central nervous system giving temporary relief. Its use has caused so much generational destruction and dysfunction. So much abuse, violation, betrayal, and self-harm.” And yet we open a magazine, turn on the TV, or attend a dinner party and the sexy guests all have an alcoholic beverage in hand and are having a stunning time.
Coriander Living Collective’s vision is “a life well lived” and I profess that one aspect of a life well lived is to live with intention and awareness of why we choose what we do.
I did my undergraduate degree at UW-Madison, a university notorious for binge drinking, I drank a lot in college and I had a blast. I’ve traveled to some of the great winelands in the world and fully enjoyed participating in tastings. I appreciate a fine crafted cocktail. I like to follow the microbrew, winery, and distillery movements.
I also sense the toxic impact of what even one drink has on my body the next day. I have witnessed the harm caused by alcohol abuse and dependence in those I love. I have listened to countless stories about the pain caused by alcohol and addiction. And I have asked myself, as a society knowing all the evils of alcohol, is it worth it?
I write this blog post to encourage you to be thoughtful about your alcohol use. Make an informed choice. Be aware of when, why, and how you use alcohol and if it adds value or creates harm in your life.
Here’s some facts from Dr. Lara Briden on ALCOHOL IS:
· A toxin and can impair the healthy detoxification of other toxins.
· Bad for sleep.
· Shrinks the brain.
· Disrupts a healthy stress response.
· Damages the gut microbiome.
· Stimulates appetite.
· Impairs estrogen metabolism.
· Linked to cancer.
Nutritional Weight and Wellness had a post recently on alcohol written by Kristi Kalinsky, RD, LD. She asked the question “is it really worth it?” when it comes to consuming alcohol and urges readers to be “sober curious.” She lists the following facts about ALCOHOL:
· Can harm weight loss goals.
· Contains empty calories and high sugar.
· Interfers with REM sleep.
· Is a toxin.
· Can burden the liver.
And so, I ask you, is it really worth it? If you are curious or contemplating your alcohol use, Coriander Living Collective would be honored to join you on your journey of discovering what’s best for you and your health.
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Hormone Repair Manual: Every Woman’s Guide to Healthy Hormones After 40 by Lara Briden, ND
https://www.weightandwellness.com/resources/articles-and-videos/fun-cocktail-alternatives/
