I Quit Alcohol For A Month & This Is What Happened | Dan’s Journey To Health & Fitness (Pt. 7)

[@schwangster]

Thanks for putting your journey out here publicly. You are a motivator of many, Dan!

[@gcn]

Thank you very much. Dan

[@mnbv5555cxz]

This really is some of the best GCN content you've ever done. it's REAL. Great job Dan and keep going.

[@Hinz2005]

Agree!

[@icyhotonmynuts]

Ohhh Daaaaan 😮. I heard Dad. I thought he was playing a character.😅

[@hisdadjames4876]

I found that unbelievably ‘relatable’ and thought-provoking. Over the last 30 years Ive just slowly and progressively drank more and more, to the current 3-5 units consumed pretty well every single day. I still exercise a lot and arguably look and come across behaviourally much younger than I am but, though theres no obvious crisis in my health or lifestyle, Im nervous about dependency and the internal damage alcohol may be doing. Yours is a sobering and inspiring video. Thanks.

[@mattsidebottom7603]

The 10 Belgian beers he drank after this were a bit concerning. But in fairness he was up running at 8.30am afterwards

[@bikenapa505]

@@mattsidebottom7603 agreed, the times I've been good about abstaining and resisting, is usually followed up with an unhealthy, uncontrolled binge (to release that pent up energy maybe?!?) I wish he woulda set a limit for that occasion of 3 or 4 and could stop himself then. beers 7-10 are really not (ever) 'needed', and he's def not thinking clearly then ...

[@SlawomirKonopka]

It takes a brave man to identify that there is an issue... It takes a really brave man to deal with it. It takes a hero to use that as an example to others. Chappeu

[@Duettoholger]

A very courageous approach! you always know someone who drinks even more and can therefore retreat to the point of view “it's not that bad for me yet, look at Joe, Jack or whoever”. Alcohol is a poison, your conversation partner said that very straightforwardly. From my point of view, the only way to deal with alcohol is either completely or not at all. Either stop or keep drinking. And there are also people who really do stop after a glass of wine or half a bottle of wine and put the cork on the bottle to continue enjoying it later. I know exactly one!

[@BradParsons-n8s]

Your consumption story is similar to mine. My age though is 54. I have been alcohol free for 13 months. I am into fitness / cycling quite seriously and have been for years. I challenge you to go for at least one year without alcohol. The reason is, I found some of the positive changes didn't even start to show up for me until many months in. The biggest change being the realization that life is better without alcohol and you can still do all the same fun social things you use to do while drinking. Thanks for the great video.

[@mickchaganis6607]

Well done mate 🙂

[@firstnamelastname9013]

Good job ! slowly poisening yoursef over a long period is not a good plan for older age witch is when the real effects start to show. 👏👏👍👍❤❤

[@EatDrinkRide]

I agree, the biggest benefits I encountered were after the 4 month mark. The physical benefits come quite fast. The mental benefits progress over time as your brain learns to no longer needs that alcohol stimulant.

[@markjohnson2754]

Agreed. Better sleep, improved balance, no more snoring, and most important of all, a considerable drop in BP. All those benefits occurred months after giving up booze. However, after two years of being alcohol free, I still see my Old Fashion glassware and think how sweet a Scotch would be. But I think that just makes me more determined to avoid it. The vast improvement in non-alcoholic beer has made it easier as well.

[@Pikestnt]

Disagree. Beer is great Very dull people eschew it to appear interesting 😀

[@tonynekrews]

The hardest part of stopping is actually making the decision. I found once you’ve made that commitment it becomes easy. March 10th 2013 was the day I finalised that choice and I haven’t had alcohol since. Dropped almost 50kgs and am probably the fittest, both mentally and physically, that I’ve ever been. 67th birthday coming up, ride every day, rode 78km yesterday

[@gcn]

We're glad to read these kinds of comments-thank you for sharing them with us. Take care on the road!

[@Neilhuny]

Shee---iiiiitttt, that's impressive! I'm not quite as old but I bet my body (aka "me" or "I") would greatly appreciate no alcohol. You, or this post, on top of what Dan has said is very inspirational! Oh my - introspection needed ...

[@tonynekrews]

@ good luck Sir, you too can do it

[@yutehube4468]

That's great. I have seen people that are over 80 years old running marathons. How? Well because they have been doing it for decades so they can just do it. They are that old but are putting most 25 year olds to shame.

[@CourtNewsUK]

Great effort - well done

[@Yensen2020]

Alcoholic here who traveled a tad further down the spiral to despair, but am recovered for more than 8 years. So grateful for sobriety as it gave me a second chance at life, and that’s how I found cycling! Hello from across the pond in the US - love the GCN content - also, have never felt better physically in my life. 👍💪

[@Andy-5339]

I've been there, climbing my way back out now.

[@jasonclarke7422]

@@Andy-5339 Good luck to you, it can be a long climb but one of the best when you reach the summit 👍

[@yutehube4468]

@@Andy-5339 Climbing my way in or hopefully not. I've been drunk more than 120 nights in a row, but it's only night time drinking after 8 PM and I never have more than 6 pints. I have had maybe 1 night in that time with no alcohol. I know I drink to much but I plan to cut it down to once per week, not 7 times per week. God help us all.

[@markusseppala6547]

The things that's cunning about addictions is that sometimes it's easy to quit for a short while when you know you can start again really soon.

[@DavidvanderWant]

Particularly true with alcohol I think

[@mickchaganis6607]

Yep, as soon as the first sip is taken, within 2 weeks, bang, back to square one.

[@karlsquire8148]

@@mickchaganis6607 1 is too many and 1 is never enough and time passes so fast when your having a few pints, I quit drinking a few years ago and I'm so glad I did but being sober all the time is not for everyone one, I do love being sober.

[@timdowney6721]

If the abstinence period is long enough-more than a few days-it does provide time enough to consider the gains and losses from being sober. So, one can make a better-informed decision on whether to continue abstinence.

[@JoshuaTootell]

That's a trick alcoholics use all the time. They quit for a period of time to prove to themselves "I can quit at any time!" Then they start back up. Anyone who participated in "Dry January" makes me question their alcohol use.

[@PaulRyan-x4f]

Drinking is definitely a young person's game and stopping in middle age is a joy

[@Bushviking]

My take as well :)

[@mausgrau]

Same. We don´t get younger. 6 Weeks no Alkohol (before 2-3 beers a day) better sleep , faster recovery. I (55) don´t miss anything. When the time is right I will have a beer or a wine - I am not a holy person. But not this frequently drinking.

[@CycleXplorer]

And probably even less of a 'young persons' thing to do now

[@alpsalish]

Do you guys assume drinking means getting messed up constantly? Even current medical thinking isn't so strict. You can enjoy a beer and be ok.

[@KrazyKrzysztof]

@@alpsalish Sure you can smoke a cigarette once in a while too. It probably won't affect you much but why bother increasing the toxins

[@snice2821]

This is my favourite series on GCN. Just a person who tries to better himself, like many of us.

[@jongoerke8983]

Thanks Dan. I’ve been alcohol free for 10+ years. I’m currently 67. It has had a profound mental and physical benefit for me. I’m a lifelong avid cyclist, it definitely has allowed me to lessen the slope of decline that is mostly inevitable. For 2024 Average RHR 48, peak ftp 3.5 w/kg, peak power 1,183 watts. Power drop is around 15-20% over the past 20 years. Your results may vary as they say, and to each his own, but not drinking definitely works for me.

[@jimsmith9419]

And thanks for being so honest and open.

[@mrpozzblizz]

Thank you for talking openly about alcohol! I wish we could talk more openly about this problem and how to deal with it together. Thank you Dan, for taking this courageous and exemplary step!

[@Uppercottage2]

Dan, this is some of the best GCN content I’ve ever seen, ok, it’s not about bikes, but it’s so brave of you, and your family to share such personal things with the world!…….I take my hat off to you for your openness, honesty and bravery for making this video and the series that it accompanies. I hope, and I’m sure you do too, that it helps someone cut down their own consumption and live a longer healthier life. Good Luck to you, well done. Rob

[@mattburkey8393]

Six and a half months sober now. Best cycling year I've ever had.

[@gcn]

Enjoy the route!

[@gavinbruce-thegreyrunner5581]

I stopped drinking alcohol 2 years ago this month. Changed my life. Never had a ‘problem’ with alcohol and was a weekend drinker mostly. I’ve no issue with people enjoying alcohol and I’m in no way anti drinking but for me- I’ll never go back. Life is to good without it.

[@Gatitasecsii]

I get not being judgemental, but at the same time I would love for everyone to discover how full their life would be without alcohol. Proud of people like you who managed to stop.

[@noName-kn1lx]

Once you stop you wonder why you wasted so much time money and effort drinking

[@boudoir00]

I feel exactly the same, I’m 55 now, stopped drinking socially in 2010. I have no desire at all to drink anymore.

[@JohnHershberger-g9h]

Thank you Dan! This is a great topic, I struggle with alcohol also. I noticed huge improvements in my fitness when I stopped drinking, better sleep, lost weight, = faster riding. Walking past the liquor section is always a challenge, the temptation is strong. I am 67 now, and health is everything.

[@marchnm]

Amazing job Dan, super proud of your progress! I could relate to a few things in the video. I am now 500 days alcohol-free (as of today!). I was drinking close to your levels. In my first month or two I saw the same dramatic decrease in RHR, where it dropped down to like mid-40s, and at times even dipping into the high 30s. Over a year later the number has stabilized to between 50-55 on average. This is apparently normal as alcohol chronically elevates heart rate and blood pressure, and when removed you get this strong rebound effect, which your improved sleep quality also contributed to. I also saw my blood pressure decrease dramatically initially (to the point where I would get lightheaded), and it's now stabilized to a pretty consistent 115/68. It's a pretty dramatic shock to your system, especially when your body has become dependent on and accustomed to alcohol. Some other metrics - my HRV has gone from 55 to 80 during the past 500 days, my weight has increased 4 lbs (mainly muscle). My FTP has gone down about 10% but my efficiency has increased about 20% (more time spent at higher heart rate, overall faster with less power). My mental health has improved dramatically, no longer experiencing depression or anxiety. My relationships are better, and I'm spending more time doing things I enjoy that are restorative to me. I don't expect everyone to have this experience, but for people who drink high volumes and frequencies, or who are dependent on alcohol, it's worth a shot! Thanks for doing these Dan!

[@gcn]

Thanks for all the details, very interesting. Dan

[@g.west2372]

Uh, nice to know about this rebound effect. Was wandering if i got unfit after stopping the drinking (roundabout a year after)... RHR has gone down into the 40s again 😀

[@fmstrat2104]

Coming up on my two year anniversary. I never considered myself an alcoholic but I was a daily wine drinker. The daily glass of wine in the evening had become an entire bottle and when I found myself contemplating the second bottle I decided to quit. I haven't kept health statistics as you have but I began to notice some improvements in mood and in motivation after a few months. After nearly two years I have forgotten about alcohol and have no cravings or temptations and my general health has improved considerably. I feel faster on the bike, stronger in the gym, more curious, more motivated to learn, and more comfortable in social situations and in work environments. It takes longer than a month to experience real changes so keep it going one day at a time as they say.

[@mickchaganis6607]

Brilliant, well done.

[@jefffixesit60]

Thanks for sharing your experiences with (and without) sobriety, I hope it will encourage others to take a break from alcohol. I’m 69, I used alcohol almost every day from 18 to 38 years old, and have been sober for nearly 31 years now: I’ll never go back to alcohol. I can’t imagine trying to fit cycling and drinking together at my age, and I don’t know any other senior cyclists who haven’t also chosen sobriety long ago. I hear lots of senior drinkers saying they “need to cut back on drinking”, and “get back on the bike”, but most don’t do either. Drinking doesn’t make you a shallow person, or a loser; it’s just a shallow hobby, and causes you to lose time (and health) that could be spent on more rewarding hobbies. Looking forward to the next report on your journey, Happy Trails!❤😎

[@rescuesar54]

Shallow hobby is a good way to call it!

[@christoferstromberg6605]

Well done, going from such an amount (even half his previous intake would classify you as alcoholic here in Sweden and you would get help to reduce it) to zero is strong. Well done on this journey and hope you can keep it up!

[@CounterfietAthlete]

In mid last year (2023 , I’m 39 now) I gave up alcohol after realizing that I have an addictive personality. Prior to that I had already given up weed (I can’t remember how long I had been enjoying it.) Today after watching your experience I was able to reflect back on my experience. I’m much healthier today than I have ever been, I am more active, my sleep is great (even now that we have a 4 month old baby with us) I can remember things better a little better, my weight is consistent and along with my muscle mass and my circle of friends are still there. My numbers also look phenomenal, I can’t put more wattage than ever, my endurance is higher, and tolerance to withstand big efforts higher than ever. I also feel more alert when riding my bikes, quicker to respond to obstacles when mountain biking, focusing on big obstacles to challenge my riding and dedicating the attention my gravel bike needs when I’m underbiking. Hopping on a road bike feels effortless with all of these come together. When you said “once I start I cannot stop” it hit it right on the nail for me because my behavior is like that with substances as well as exercise, that is just my personality. But I prefer to lean towards compulsive and mindful exercise along to with listening to my body when it needs a day off (as much as I hate to admit it) Thanks for sharing your experience, Dan. This has been a refreshing episode. I encourage anyone and everyone to try it! It feels good to feel good!

[@gcn]

Thanks for sharing your experience with us

[@SeattleMarko]

We are dealing with a family member’s alcoholism issue. Have been reflecting on how my behavior around alcohol has contributed to my family member’s problem. Dan, thank you so very, very much for this and other videos. You are helping me and my family members have great discussions around the topic of alcohol consumption. You are truly aiding to not just helping people think about how to extend their lives you are providing us data and safe way to watch and talk around saving a life. 🙏 ❤💪

[@thespiritualsamurai11]

Being open and honest as a recovering alcoholic with almost 4 years of sobriety, I can attest to the significant benefits of not drinking and taking in this poison (for that is what alcohol is). At 49 years old, I have never felt better, not just physically, but also mentally and emotionally (as well as spiritually). There are so many good things that come from not drinking, not just productivity and efficiency, but memory recollection, recovery from intense physical exercise and better sleep. I cannot go back to drinking alcohol because I feel so good these days. If anyone may think they have issues with alcohol (or drugs), if your life revolves around these substance, I compassionately encourage and implore you to seek help. There’s lots out there. And I can honestly say that you won’t regret getting help, from my personal experiences.

[@igorkoscak3524]

Dan, hats off. Being very sincere it is not easy. Keep on the good work!

[@andrewhill9369]

Perfect comment. ‘Sincere’ is a great word to use.

[@jgogl9791]

Delighted to see the REM reenactment get an airing again Thanks for being so open and honest Dan, useful info.

[@adamgreener3887]

I think there’s a lot of us here who fell into drinking cause its what you do, associated with fun, enables us to let go a bit, and especially in the UK, part of the culture. Reading the comments I can also see quite a few of us struggled to control it and as we’ve got older have had to find ways to deal with it, especially if we want to enjoy being out on our bikes. This video confirmed a lot of what I’d thought might be the impact of alcohol & in some areas, it was a lot worse than I’d imagined. Literally sobering & making me think my regular Friday evening drinks (reduced down over the years from pretty much every evening) should be shelved. Great content.

[@frantzs1077]

I stopped drinking around five years ago and the initial physical improvements were astounding. Six months in, I was completing long rides that had previously been out of reach. However, over time, I fell into depression. Alcohol often serves as self-medication for many. Similarly, if not managed properly, exercise can turn into an addiction too, especially if you have history of addiction, as alcohol is. During my recovery, I sought professional help, underwent various therapies, and joined support groups. This phase was challenging and not at all as enjoyable as cycling. My advice is to diversify your coping strategies if you're using cycling as therapy. It can help, but it's only part of the solution. What I think was helping a lot was organizing bike rides. Gives you a sort of structure you are planning your day around. And for clarity, I was a heavy drinker, if not obvious from text above.

[@MrBlazeyb]

Well done. I stopped drinking 22 years ago, I'm 56 now and i agree about exercise being an addiction. I feel like I throw myself into each new thing because I have more time. I run, cycle, hike and even took up online skating last year. I don't or can't really feel any benefit from not drinking because I'm so much older now. However, I definitely don't miss the hangovers!! Ride safe my friend

[@craigfritz5411]

Thanks. "diversify your coping strategies" is great advice for life in general.

[@ollieroberts1885]

Congratulations on completing your sober October, Dan! 🎉 It’s awesome to hear about the positive changes you’ve experienced in just a few weeks-like improvements in resting heart rate, sleep quality, heart rate variability, and blood pressure. Your journey is inspiring and raises great awareness about the benefits of taking a break from alcohol. I recently listened to Andrew Huberman’s discussion on alcohol. He mentioned that while short-term abstinence brings noticeable benefits, extending it to three to six months can lead to even more profound and lasting changes, especially in reducing cortisol levels and resetting the body’s baseline. It might be an interesting experiment to see how much further your health and well-being could improve over a longer period. From my own experience, after several months without alcohol, I attended a live music event and felt a natural euphoria unlike anything before. It was incredible to fully immerse myself in the moment without any distractions or needing a drink. Thanks again for sharing your journey and encouraging others to explore the benefits of going alcohol-free. Looking forward to seeing where you take this next!

[@gcn]

Have you ever gone sober for a period of time?🍻 How did you find it? Did you notice any changes?👇

[@feedbackzaloop]

Had periods of sobriety, moderate drinking and heavy too. Made little to none difference given other stress factors and social aspects. Cycling performance wise - I never had it in the first place.

[@Chickey]

Been nearly two years since i had a drink and best thing i ever did, wished i'd done it earlier.

[@MrMichaelfalk]

I haven't had a drink for almost a year and I saw massive changes like this. RHR dropped by 20%, HRV increased by 30%, stress level on my Garmin watch dropped significantly. If I get only get a few drinks a few days in a row, all data behaves exactly the same as when you get sick.. It gives you something to think about.

[@philipcooper8297]

The main difference, that I've only realized after I got back to regular beer, was how alcohol robs you of endurance.

[@billkallas1762]

I hardly ever drink, EXCEPT when I'm on a cruise, and have a drink package. Then, I drink like a proverbial fish. My drink of choice, is a Black Russian, and on sea days, consume a dozen, or so, without ever getting drunk, or having a hangover, the next day. My secret is control. I space out every drink to 75 to 90 minutes.....all day, and never double up.

[@Bike4Coffee-Cake]

Thanks for sharing - this whole series has seemed so genuine, thoughtful and balanced. Really enjoyed it. I’m a few years ahead of you, I really like beer, but I feel I make more of life without it.

[@gcn]

Thank you. Dan

[@TheJch76]

Great series, Dan! I’m on month 11 of no alcohol. A book that really helped shift my mindset on the this topic was Allen Carr’s Easy Way to Control Your Drinking. I had to listen to it several times before it really clicked, but when it did it made easier to leave my IPAs in the rear view mirror. Thanks again for the series!

[@donmcauslan233]

I am thoroughly enjoying this series. I began a dry spell only 4 days ago because I too have the “on/off” problem. And alcohol consumption and the next day effects have consistently been an excuse to skip the gym or endurance work. Having someone to virtually experience this with is certainly helpful. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@ShawnStradamus520]

I spent 30+ years as a club level bike racer, and have stayed very fit as I approach 60. Most days I would enjoy a single beer when I came home from work and on social occasions. So I typically drank about 10 drinks per week for most of my adult life. At my last physical checkup my doctor told me that I had developed a kind of anemia related to liver damage associated with alcohol consumption. I have been sober for about a month now and I don’t really miss it much. My takeaway is that alcohol is poison and there’s really not a safe amount at least for some people.

[@sudochugi]

I quit alcohol 2 years ago and don't miss poisoning myself at all. I will never go back to alcohol again. Good luck in your quest Dan! Cheers.

[@gayballew8449]

I appreciate your honesty. Once I start, I'm in it til the end. I decided to finally quit..3 weeks in and counting. I quit because of the health issues and benefits I hope to achieve.

[@yvansandoz]

Thanks Dan, I am 59 and I can relate to your story. Most of all, watching @GCN for some time now, you look much better, more dynamic than before. Keep going💪🏻

[@BasicStealthcamping]

thanks for this series! i struggle to maintain extended alcohol free periods so its good to hear these honest takes on it

[@FishNett503]

I appreciate the real information, frankness, and lack of hyperbole. Thanks for sharing s this could be helpful to many people.

[@blackmoor5815]

Balance, not restriction. I sip, cycle, and savor life's pleasures in moderation. 😊

[@mq3868]

Dan, this whole series of yours has been very interesting and the results of your "dry" October quite eye opening to say the least. I only average a couple of pints a week, but based on this I might try cutting that down just to see.

[@gcn]

Thank you, for the donation and message. Dan

[@-User_not_found-]

Recent GCN content with this and Ollies beast challenges is phenomenal. Not just good cycling content but just good content overall. Keep it up.

[@suartdave]

Truly fascinating on so many levels. I’m 47 and if I drank 10 pints I’d throw my spleen up for 12 hours, yet you can go on a park run the next day?! No wonder you like beer. Yet this is relatable. I like beer, but it doesn’t like me. Even small quantities slow me down hugely , yet despite this knowledge, I drink moderately and regularly. Thankyou for sharing such a frank and inspiring insight into this topic. I’m definitely going to reconsider my relationship with beer.

[@PVVI2015]

Love this series! Thank you for your openness Dan! I stopped consuming alcohol 16+ years ago - personal choice, no judgement. It started as a weight management strategy and became a lifestyle choice. I’m 76, fit and active! And, I love cycling as well as other sports. As I’ve watched friends who frequently drink alcohol age, I can see a huge difference in health, life satisfaction, activities, etc. I can say without a doubt that my life is better because I made that choice!

[@Lyclah]

Many thanks Dan! Great video. I'm saying this sincerely. You changed many people's life by this content.

[@tdc3rd]

This is fantastic, Dan. Congrats! I too am in a similar journey with(out) alcohol. Regarding sleep, I found that I slept worse for the first 5 dry days, but by day 7, my sleep was noticeably deeper and longer. I’ve been drinking occasionally (4/wk), and again, the longer I abstain, the easier it is and the less trouble I’ve had stopping drinking once I start. Lastly, I just feel better … clearer head, stronger, emotionally more level, and I simply feel better about my life. I’m not sure if I’ll completely stop (I love a good glass of wine) but at this point at least I can envision doing so without a hint of doubt that I could. Thanks for this series you’re doing - great reporting, and great story.

[@368andy]

So insightful. I’m on the same journey as you and have stayed off the beer in October and November. Missing beer loads and not seeing the same upside as you on sleep and RHR. Certainly questioning if I continue without alcohol or continuing to abstain!!! Great set of videos on your progress mate.

[@olewurtz7625]

A real life content that most of us can relate to. Hats off to you for doing what you’ve done and documenting it. I can personally see an immediate (1-2 days) result in my resting heart rate, when I have no alcohol, for instance Monday to Friday. You took it a huge step further and it would have been interesting to see what your stats would have been if you hadn’t increased your exercise regimen.

[@LeeJonesNPT]

Great video Dan, i am in my 60’s now formally a club rugby player with a pretty heavy almost daily drinking habit, i had a few health scares, got into cycling and then found I didn’t want to drink the night before going for a ride with my mates, that then moved into wanting to lose some weight to make cycling easier. I often go months now without a drink and for years my wife was always the nominated driver however now i almost always volunteer, i go to watch sport which always involved a pretty heavy session in the past but now quite happy not to have a beer. I do have an occasional session with some mates but it is much less volume than i previously consumed. I am no longer in any need for a beer or the need to explain to others why i am non alcohol drinking and I don’t think most other people are bothered either.

[@andrewlydiatt3190]

Inspiring stuff Dan. As a 46 year old going through similar drinking habits, and not having had the conviction to do as you have done, it has definitely motivated me to do so. Chapeau. Look forward to the next vids.

[@madplanet3351]

Excellent. Well done. One of your best videos. Very informative and useful for all. When I finally stopped stress levels during sleep basically disappeared giving me better quality of sleep. Wallet was happy too. One important thing I noticed was my digestive system really really improved and was very regular. For example constipation disappeared. Resting heart rate dropped by around 10%. Currently at 47. I'm 62. Circadian rhythm is spot on.

[@gert-janroeleveld531]

Dry since 11/02/2024 and seen all the benefits you mentioned + weight loss in my case. Great to hear and see your journey. Keep it up. and to all others, get going with little steps, they will make a huge difference over time.

[@chrisobrien1094]

I started my sobriety in 1985. I don't miss alcohol, and you're spot on about activity buddies, if I change activities etc., my friends group will change, likewise if they change or move. There are always friends i keep touch with from all times of my life, which allows room for new friends!

[@RicBarber]

Thanks Dan, great to hear your journey, which I'm currently contemplating about mirroring (probably procrastinating about it!)

[@gcn]

Hi Ric. Thanks for the donation. I think my results video might be the final nudge you need..... Dan

[@nancyheller8790]

I ,like many,tried drinking alcohol in college. It only took “ one bad night” at a fraternity party for me to realize that I just can’t handle it. 30 plus years later I still avoid alcohol 99% of the time but will have an occasional drink when out. With that being said I never mind being “ the designated driver” for friends and never feel like I am “ missing out” . Great series BTW! Thank you for your vulnerability and honesty

[@KennyBellau]

Great job, Dan! I quit for October too. Just popped 2 bottles of Champagne for a good reason and it made me realize I won't be doing too much of that anymore. I LOVE beer also, so much that I drink it with a high level of respect. I don't want to ever HAVE to completely give it up. I've got my few favorites nailed down and I'll grab one when I'm out. My fridge will have just that much more room going forward.

[@TheSteinbitt]

I did almost a year without drinking. In the beginning I felt fantastic, because I had been drinking a bit too much a month leading up to it (2-3 units 4-5 days a week), but after half a year I became depressed. After several months of trying to live even healthier by training more and eating better, I tried the opposite. I started drinking moderately 1-2 dates a week, and felt better!

[@frazmars]

Interesting… I wonder what role social interaction or less thereof played during your teetotal months. Did your social life take a hit when stopped drinking?

[@TheSteinbitt]

@ I don’t think so, but I was under a lot of stress at the time which I think alcohol let me forget once or twice a week and kinda unwinded me a bit? Mind you I didn’t binge, maximum 4 units on a night, and also quite early in the evening so as not to ruin my sleep too much. But once every other month or so, I binge drink with friends which gives me a lot of joy.

[@alpsalish]

I think the problem is people force themselves into what they don't want. Part of life is balance. I think it is save of you to have found that line where balance feels restored.

[@TheSteinbitt]

@@alpsalish balance is usually the key in life:)

[@SteveMNash]

When I stopped drinking I immediately noticed increased anxiety. I still don't drink, happily so, but understand this "negative" consequence of quitting. (Personally, I did not notice any of the positives from not drinking, and still haven't more than 5 years later - feeling better, more activity etc etc - but I didn't stop for those reasons...)

[@FlatSpinMan]

This is excellent. Really appreciate your honesty, Dan.

[@naali2769]

I quit quite similar drinking habbits for more efficient recovery because of triathlon training.. and it surely has been gamechanger for me, last time i have been drunk is january of this year and i consume 0-2 beers in a month now. Im 43yo now, and alcohol has been in my live more or less from teenager. I dont have anything against alcohol, but dropping it has been really good for me, and helped my journey back to fitness. These videos is also very motivating. Keep up the good work! 👍🏻👍🏻

[@3Unique]

Awesome post. This has got me closer to going dry (permanently) than all the other "health" (Huberman, Attia, Patrick, Greger etc) videos that I have watched. Thank you. I don't consider myself a heavy drinker, indeed I will only ever drink one drink a night and aim for more alcoholic free nights than drinking nights each month (I use an app to track it) but going alcohol free completely is something deep down that I want to do. This really helped. Thank you again.

[@douglaspate9314]

Awesome one Dan!!! I'm Scots-Irish grew up in Wales! OMG.. lots of alcohol. I have never been an alcoholic. (I see comments about that subject below) For the last 20 years, maybe more and before it was a trend I abstain from alcohol from 7Jan to 31 March (6 Jan is the last day of the holiday season where I live). Sometimes I've gone beyond 31st March. It was never to lose weight, I just wanted to give my body an opportunity to clean itself I have just had my right knee joint replaced and I stopped drinking alcohol 3 weeks before the op and had my first drink 8 weeks after the op. So 11 weeks abstinence. I was convinced I would give my body a better chance of healing as it wouldn't be using energy to clean the alcohol toxins from my body and concentrate in repairing itself. Recovery going well

[@johntheconnor8721]

These are some of my favorite gcn videos and I look forward to them. Great work Dan. I’d like to see another next year some time just too see how it’s all going 12, 18 months later. Truely inspiring for a lot of people i think

[@leofred1860]

40 years ago, I went from not understanding why anyone would go to a restaurant that didn't serve alcohol to abstinence. It's been great. Good luck as you continue the experience a measure of sobriety.

[@ricardobarata8507]

Probably the best series of videos on GCN for years. Congrats Dan.

[@einsteinisbae27]

having supportive friends is also incredibly important, I stopped drinking during covid and never restarted, but my mates gave me a lot of crap for a while which I found very hard. Eventually they stopped bringing it up. Did lead me to think I might need to widen my social circle...

[@jacksonbangs6603]

As an American born millennial I was taught DARE back in elementary school 🏫. DARE stands for Drug Alcohol Resistance Education. I must say that stuck eith me because by high-school, I was riding centuries on the weekends. No I never did do drugs or alcohol, I just found bicycling to be more enjoyable on my days off. Awesome video and congrats on becoming sober! ❤

[@OhJustSomeRandomGuy]

"DARE stands for Drug Alcohol Resistance Education." Uh, no it doesn't. It stands for Drug ABUSE Resistance Education.

[@GregTheGuitarist]

Wow. Hats off to you Dan, thanks for spreading the word for any people that may struggle with cutting down and staying in sobriety. Keep it up!🎉

[@slowturn5664]

22:32 Thank you for making the decision to do this. I am down to 12 beers in a month. I have saved enough to pay for upgrades on my bike! 😂 I look forward to Nov 30. Keep up the good work. PS: it is a lot more fun watching the drunks at a club than being the drunk. It's amazing how silly people can be.

[@Rillette-v3e]

THIS is what I call great content. I really appreciate the honesty in how you shared it even when you don’t have all the answers. Most will be able to relate even coming from different drinking habits. And I appreciate the touch of science, it made me look at my Garmin sleep history. Well done!

[@aeriegrove]

I love drinking, in fact I loved it so much I realised I had to quit. I took me a few years of trying to moderate but that didn't get me anywhere -If you need to moderate, you cannot moderate - so at the age of 35 I quit. I celebrated 4 years sober the other day and it remains the best decision I've ever made

[@xriotdobrasil7482]

Congrats on being so open and honest. We have to balance everything in life and your experiment has put me to think.

[@MattSwain1]

I stopped drinking alcohol around 6 years ago in my late 40s. I was putting a lot of time and effort into my fitness and drinking seemed like an act of self-sabotage. It always clearly showed up in my Garmin sleep data when I had alcohol. Nowadays I give myself the option of having an alcoholic drink but I rarely do, and when I do it’s always just one. If anyone is wanting to go alcohol-free my advice would be to look at what you’re gaining as opposed to what you’re denying yourself. I’ve never told myself that I can’t have a drink but equally I’ve also said that I won’t turn to alcohol just because I’ve had a rough day because that’s a slippery slope

[@guyboycecam1636]

Completely agree - my key to giving up was focussing on the many benefits rather than the perceived loses

[@derekhartloper11]

Great vid Dan and GCN! Less or no alcohol almost always better!

[@laurawalters7973]

You've clearly made your dog very happy!

[@Hardcaslte]

What you mentioned about friendships and social circles really hits close to home for me. I enjoy being alone (I'm married, but in a general sense I like being home with or without my wife, playing games, watching TV, even doing an indoor cycling workout, etc), so that enabled me to be alone for long periods of time. Really the only way I'm social is through things like working out, cycling, things like that. My problem though is I can rotate hobbies, fall out or fall back into the same hobby, repeatedly. So it's like my social circle is constantly coming and going, even with the same people. It could be a year at a time. My other issue is that I can get lazy really easily. for instance right now I've been off the bike for about a year and haven't done much of anything that would be considered social, so I pretty much just haven't hung out with anyone. I think most people have the ability to stick with something, I normally do with exercise, but I can also come and go on a whim which makes it hard to stay in touch with the same people on a consistent basis.

Another great video, honest and thought provoking. Pls drop the stock video images though as they defo not needed and are a distraction. 10 beers makes me feel sick on your behalf. No idea how you manage to function the next few days.

[@timothyobrien5367]

Well done Dan, your honesty and openness is admirable, I’m sure this will resonate with lots of people

[@alinapopescu872]

My father died an alcoholic at the age I am now - 46. I've seen what alcohol can do. My brother and I rarely touch the stuff.

[@MarcDorval]

I really enjoyed following you on this journey, Dan. Thanks for sharing!

[@Czechbound]

Here in Czech Republic, 0.5% is a Low Alcohol Beer, and brewers aren't allowed to call it alcohol free. The limit for driving or cycle is 0.0 for alcohol in your system, and in the cycling tourist areas in Moravia they have Police breathalyser control points on random cycle paths and you'll be fined if you have any alcohol in your system.

[@andypearson5947]

Wise to avoid eating very ripe bananas before driving too then.

[@Czechbound]

@@andypearson5947 Or your wife's "special" water bottle contents ;)

[@alpsalish]

There is a whole different thing going on in Czechia.

[@RichardBysouth]

Superb, honest video. Thanks for sharing this.

[@gcn]

Honesty, coffee, and red bicycles are things that will never be missing at GCN 😎

[@jeroenimus7528]

Already didn't drink much, two drams of whisky per month on average, due to my health. Stopped completely in January. And just donated my whisky collection to someone who can appreciate it while selling the bottles that were still closed.

[@larsh8560]

I really loved the honesty in this video. And such an important topic. Makes it a real standout in terms of GCN content.

[@theatricshrink]

I stopped drinking 4 years ago. Never drank much before either, but would never go back to it.

[@dmitriyburdan6371]

You've inspired me to rethink my drinking habits with the original video! Good follow-up! Thanks, Dan and GCN!

[@harkinf]

Did sober Oct too found the experience much like Dan even as a 63 yo

[@PapaPaul723]

1st Observation: 1100 comments in 5 days. Mr. Dan, you are making heads turn with this series. Well Done, Sir!!! Want to reiterate the idea of packaging this as a unit. Was going to pull the trigger on sober October but just didn't. Don't know why for sure, I have a couple niggling thoughts that I don't want to admit to. Second observation, it didn't seem to change your circle of people all that much. You didn't become a hermit and it all worked out. Very glad for you. And I am glad you called BS on the social circuit stigma; you are right when you change the pathways of your life, you have different people on those paths with you. Welcome to life. Third observation: When the doc talked about the body's need to recover sleep for a bad nights sleep, I stopped the video to replay it so I understood. One Smart Cookie. Incredibly profound; sleep is my biggest issue. Forth observation. Lorraine is lovely and she has a great laugh. Glad you have someone to laugh with. Looking forward to the series finale and if you make it to the Chicago area, you have a friend here to add to your circle.

[@rogersimmons8788]

I gave up alcohol 17 years ago after a divorce. All these years later, there is no reason whatsoever stopping me drinking other than I feel I'd be letting myself down. Without conducting any scientific experiments, and having a CSE in woodwork, I've concluded that alcohol is completely surplus to requirements and therefore utterly pointless!

[@alpsalish]

Surplus is a lot of things, though. Cut it all out then given the logic here.

[@rogersimmons8788]

@alpsalish I've no idea what you have said, sorry.

[@alpsalish]

@rogersimmons8788 you said surplus. Many things a surplus to life that I'm sure you haven't cut out. It is an odd justification is all.

[@rogersimmons8788]

@alpsalish Ah, now I'm with you, sorry. I can see no benefits from consuming alcohol so I stopped. I can't think of anything else I have done in the past, which is as pointless that I still do. Neither can I think of anything I do which is surplus.

[@whootoobe]

This is so good. Great job everyone. I love that GCN doesn't get stale like other channels!

[@3Max]

Man stops drinking poison; gets healthier. :) Thanks for sharing your experience Dan, and good work!

[@daveanolik8837]

Man stops drinking poison, man misses poison, man binges poison. Man stops drinking poison, man misses poison, man binges poison. … for me, it was the cycle of addiction that bought up all the real estate in my head. That’s just me, everyone’s got a different path. Dan’s a great race commentator, hope to enjoy his work for many years to come.

[@biffbertil6966]

Tack!

[@gcn]

thanks for the support

[@adamalpinecycling]

excellent video! I'm 53. I completely gave up for 2 years about 10 years ago, and that allowed me to rewire my mental association with alcohol. I now have a large collection of whiskies that I sample maybe once a week, never drinking more than one unit, just for the taste, never getting even slightly tipsy. Some months I just forget to have a whisky tasting at all. I don't miss the sensation of getting drunk, In fact, the added energy and focus has been a huge bonus. I wish I'd given up 10 years earlier.

[@DarenC]

I'm similar, although my selection of peaty single malts hasn't been touched even once this year /o\

[@mariushilkert5164]

Hello! My name is Marius, and I like beer, too.

[@mariushilkert5164]

... and these results and insights are really really interesting! Should try it...

[@L333ENG]

Great video. I’m the same age as Dan (late-late 30s😂) and going through a similar journey. Although I’ve not cut out alcohol completely I’ve massively reduced it. For me this series of videos is up there with the best GCN have done. Keep up the good work guys 👏

[@calumhartley2989]

Loved this series, especially on the alcohol part as I’ve also massively reduced my own consumption this year. My own suggestion would be to try and have a healthier balance and not either be tee total for weeks and then drink 10 pints in one night as it is potentially masking an unhealthy relationship towards binge drinking. Enjoy the first couple of pints, but are you really getting anything out of drink number 4, 5, 6 and beyond?

[@brouhaha46]

Sheesh, this is a video I didn't know I needed to see. Thank you for sharing your journey and convincing data.

[@JBDazen]

Can't believe u were used to drinking 6 pints a night for 5 nights a week. That's full on alcoholic! And then you just quit! That's amazing!

[@JBDazen]

The disheartening thing about this is that you probably have a huge genetic advantage. The avarage person absolutely couldn't drink 6 pints a night and wake up without a problem in the morning. It's probably the same advantage that made you a pro cyclist. I hardly drink any alcohol and am the same age as you. But my sleep is bad and I feel lik sh*t every day anyway. So. What to do?

[@gcn]

Hi. I did do an episode on sleep and how to try and improve it - did you watch that one? Dan

[@rescuesar54]

@@JBDazenhave you tried a sleep study? They are expensive…but could be something else going on that you’re not aware of. I never would have thought (and I don’t snore), but developed severe apnea due to another condition I have. I stopped breathing +30x per hour throughout the night and woke up with headaches every morning. I wear a machine every night now and while it can be a little annoying at times, I’ll take it compared to the alternative…total game changer!

[@JBDazen]

@@gcn Not yet, but I will get to it!

[@JBDazen]

@@rescuesar54 That sounds great! I think I still have some improvements to try out before I get to that point though, but I will keep this in mind.

[@willarrerz]

Having been a student for 5 years and done my fair share of backpacking, I used to love a beer whenever the chance arose. Last year, I went on a bikepacking trip for 3 months and not only did my fitness improve, but I stopped drinking alcohol save for a pint here or there after a long day. I wore a Garmin watch for the whole time and the results were amazing. My sleep was so improved - I slept a solid 10hrs every night, my Heart Rate Variability became very consistent (I never got worn out) and my stress disappeared. Ever since the trip my appetite for alcohol has disappeared and I wake up earlier and go to bed earlier. Sleep monitoring from my watch was extremely helpful and I would recommend it to anyone who wonders about the effects alcohol has on their lives. All of the points made here resonate very strongly, thanks for these videos and being so open with your own journey.

[@dandaniel9374]

Once a heavy drinker, but now sober for the last 13 years. Here's the deal, you've proven to yourself that you can do without. You know in your heart of hearts that even a little is, maybe not "bad" for you, but any at all isn't the best you can do for yourself, and that one pint has the ability to open the door to the second, and the third is even easier to justify after that, and so on and so on... I LOVE bread and cheese. I've found that both are bad for me. Digestive issues with the bread, allergies towards the dairy. I've given them up, completely. Do I still want them? Of course. Do I want diverticulitis and uncomfortable inflammation more? No. I'm fitter and healthier than I've ever been, and it's hard, but I'm 50, so it's not supposed to be easy anymore. Great job on the six weeks, you've proven you can do it. You can do it!

[@mickchaganis6607]

Well done.

[@chrisobrien1094]

Well done Dan!

[@gcn]

Wow, very generous. Thanks Chris. Dan

[@Yourivanhien]

Not drinking alcohol improved your overall health? Of course it did. Not drinking at all is better. Everyone knows this if you’re being honest.