A year without alcohol

Last year, I decided to undertake a personal challenge; let’s call it ‘scientific research’. I committed to a full year without alcohol, which, for someone who has always enjoyed a nice glass of wine, or a gin and tonic, felt like a substantial challenge. 

I have never had an alcohol problem but have been a social drinker for most of my adult life. Admittedly, there were a few years in my teens and early 20s when I didn’t get this balance quite right.

As I entered my 40s, I noticed that the after-effects of having a few glasses of wine began to outweigh the pleasure of it. Alcohol started affecting my sleep, my food choices and I would often wake up feeling tired, dehydrated and generally unwell, even after only one or two glasses.

Embracing a year-long break from alcohol was both exciting and daunting. I’ll admit, navigating social events – weddings, girls’ weekends, the festive holiday parties – without a drink felt intimidating. But I was determined to give it a go, and curious if I would manage it.

Increasing consumption despite decreasing tolerance

It is a common experience for women going through midlife to find that their tolerance of alcohol decreases significantly and the after effects of a drink become more severe. Despite this, many women begin drinking more during this time to cope with the effects of peri/menopause.  

Among women aged 45-64, 21 per cent reported drinking above the recommended limit of 14 units per week – the highest rate of any age group (Statistics on alcohol: England, House of Commons Library, 2024).

It’s undeniable that the UK has an issue with unhealthy levels of alcohol consumption spanning all age groups. Alcohol consumption has become so ingrained in our culture that it now seems unusual for people to gather and socialise without it. But how does alcohol impact our bodies? 

The physical effects of alcohol 

Alcohol is a neurotoxin, meaning it negatively affects brain cells. Once consumed, it is converted into a harmful compound that drives inflammation and oxidative stress, damaging key areas of the brain responsible for memory, mood and decision-making.

The short-term effects are probably familiar to us, and include poor balance, dehydration, sleep problems, upset stomach, bloating, migraines, headaches, reckless or aggressive behaviour, and an increased risk of accidents and violence.

Long-term effects can be more severe, as alcohol use is directly linked to heart disease, liver disease, most forms of cancer, brain damage and immune system disorders. It also has a significant impact on mental health, reducing dopamine receptor sensitivity and disrupting serotonin levels – two crucial neurotransmitters involved in happiness – leading to decreased motivation, depression and addiction.

So why is alcohol so popular? 

Humans have been consuming alcohol for millennia; let’s not forget, Jesus turned water into wine – not a non-alcoholic beverage like Shloer. 

One of the main reasons people drink alcohol is for the relaxation and perceived confidence it offers. Shortly after consumption, alcohol activates endorphins in the brain, which help to ease stress and foster social connections. Given the current climate in which many individuals report feeling lonelier and more disconnected than ever, it is not surprising that alcohol consumption rates are on the rise.

In the Christian community, attitudes towards alcohol vary widely. Some choose a completely sober lifestyle, while others enjoy a drink now and then. It’s important to consider personal convictions and the health impacts of alcohol consumption. As Romans 14:5 reminds us, we shouldn’t judge each other’s choices: “Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind.” Your choices should reflect your personal values and beliefs.

What does the Bible say specifically about alcohol? 

While it does not explicitly prohibit drinking, the Bible clearly warns against drunkenness. Numerous passages advise against being drunk and losing control, such as Romans 13:13: “Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy.” Additionally, 1 Thessalonians 5:6-7 instructs Christians to be alert and self-controlled, as they belong to the day, while drunkards belong to the night and darkness.

It’s clear that we should avoid drunkenness, but does that mean moderate alcohol use is acceptable? As with everything we do, it’s important to examine our motivations, weigh up risks and benefits, and exhibit the self-control Thessalonians describes. If you find it hard to enjoy positive experiences without alcohol, feel the need to drink to socialise due to low confidence or self-esteem, or cannot relax or sleep without it, perhaps the solution should not be alcohol, and should instead be a spiritual strategy aiming to address the root cause? It could be time to reassess your relationship with alcohol, reflect on your reasons for drinking and seek support in renewing your mind and identity in Jesus. 

Paul wrote in Ephesians 5:18 (NLT): “Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Paul was clearly aware of the negative effects of alcohol, and it’s potential to ruin lives. We need to ensure we are not replacing the power and confidence provided by the Holy Spirit with alcohol.

Looking forward

Looking back on my year of being teetotal, I remain uncertain if I’ll return to drinking alcohol. I don’t miss it anymore and love the health benefits I’ve gained from abstaining. I feel more energetic, clearer-headed and healthier overall. Right now, it’s working for me and I am happy to keep going. 

If this article has prompted you to evaluate your relationship with alcohol, don’t hesitate to seek help – whether through your doctor, Alcoholics Anonymous, church leader or a trusted friend who can guide you to local support resources. 

If any of these issues have affected you, you can call Premier Lifeline for support. Premier Lifeline is a national, confidential helpline offering a listening ear, emotional and spiritual support from a Christian perspective. If you would like someone to talk with and pray for you, call Premier Lifeline on 0300 111 0101.