What Alcohol Does to Your Body: Harvard’s Dr. Sarah Wakeman With the Medical Facts You Need to Know

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Today you’re getting a masterclass from one of the most renowned and respected experts on alcohol.
She’s here to give you the latest research and science of how alcohol impacts your body, brain, and mind. She’s going to give you facts, dispel myths, and help you be informed about the decisions you are making when it comes to your mental, physical, and emotional health when it comes to alcohol consumption.
Dr. Sarah Wakeman is Senior Medical Director of Substance Use Disorder at Mass General Brigham, home to nationally recognized hospitals and cutting-edge research. She's also an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and the Program Director of Mass General Substance Use Addiction Services.
How much is TOO much alcohol?
Is some alcohol healthy?
What happens to your brain when you drink?
And how do you help someone you love who drinks too much?
Get the latest research so that you make the most informed decisions about the role alcohol plays in your life.
For lots more resources, click here for the podcast episode page: www.melrobbins.com/podcasts/e...
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
05:05: What is alcohol and what does it do when we drink it?
05:45: How is alcohol formed in the first place?
06:18: Wait. Alcohol that we drink is the same as WHAT?
07:50: Are there negative impacts to having a drink every night?
09:58: Know THIS about alcohol, especially if cancer runs in your family.
10:40: What alcohol does to your liver, and how you can change that.
12:50: This recent event increased alcohol use in the U.S.
12:45: How does alcohol impact your kidneys?
13:50: Does alcohol damage your gut microbiome and does it matter?
15:15: Ask yourself these 3 questions to assess the role alcohol plays in your life.
18:15: How much drinking is too much, from a medical perspective?
19:15: Here’s why many people don’t share their alcohol habits with doctors.
20:45: 7 questions to ask if you or someone you love has a problem.
25:20: Physical symptoms of alcohol overuse.
26:10: 7 benefits you’ll see pretty quickly once you stop drinking.
27:05: How does drinking make menopause worse?
28:50: Think alcohol makes you sleep better? This is what actually happens.
29:00: What’s a hangover and what happens in your body?
32:15: This is how alcohol increases anxiety and depression.
33:30: Keep forgetting names and important information?
37:45: What to do and NOT do when talking to someone about alcohol.
38:50: Why a tough love approach doesn’t work for alcoholics.
42:00: Why most people avoid seeking help with their relationship to alcohol.
44:25: What’s the most effective way to talk to your kids about drug use?
45:40: The 5 most important things to communicate to someone you love.
47:00: The 3 important first steps when you’re the one who wants to quit.
49:40: How can you get the support you need?
51:40: What to know if you have an alcohol use disorder.
#health #healthylifestyle #drinking #alcohol #healthadvice #podcast
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[@sheilasmith5114]

Quit alcohol on July 1, 2021. Hardest thing I’ve ever conquered and still conquering. Every day is a new day. One day at a time.

[@passivelyobsessive5460]

great job sticking with it

[@KiwiKirsty1983]

Congratulations.

[@exotixzyro9755]

Amazing!!! Soooo proud of you!! My little brother lost his battle with addiction last year at age 44. NOBODY understands what this disease is unless they are living with it. Sending continued strength and prayers to you!

[@terjehansen0101]

What's it got to do with me? I don't care about your little "journey".

[@cactusflwr1-sandi]

I often go dry when I find myself relying on alcohol.

[@monet-unique]

I am a single momma and I was struggling with alcohol for a couple years. I quit cold turkey for 60 days and on day 60 I had a beer...then another...then went into drinking at least one beer or glass of wine every night. This time I was quickly able to see the negative effects (thank you Jesus). Now almost 30 days sober again and I'm so grateful to be able to see the results. The results are enough to make me say never again

[@tiffanyolson6019]

Keep going!! The benefits of quitting FAR outweigh the benefits of not quitting!

[@wellinever1558]

Mommy juice is becoming a world wide crutch for Moms. Stick to it well done. Join tribe sober if you are struggling. Best decision i made 9 months sober..

[@stevemarshall3986]

Been there.

[@biblicalgodisonlytruegod]

Go to “Stop Drinking Expert” on KZbin. It’s ADDICTIVE! It’s POISON! Read “Alcohol Explained”. But BEST… is “Stop Drinking Expert”. I went to Italy and started drinking wine again. After five weeks of wine and Aperol Spritz everyday, I am having a heck of a time doing 14 days without, in order to stop the cravings.

[@MM-jf6sh]

Please listen to Allen carr’s “easy way to control alcohol” audiobook. It is simple.

[@Asneeded]

I started drinking when I was 9 years old. By the time that I was 24, Alcohol along with other stuff, had almost taken my life!! Praise God I was delivered and have been clean and sober for 33 years, 4 months and 3 days🙏🏽

[@guysumpthin2974]

Eat daily raw green vegetables, to make the cravings very manageable

[@user-uu6jw6qs7b]

At age 82 I was falling down a lot, bruises all over, nothing broken, but hurt. Quit alcohol now.

[@timkempuk]

Have you now stopped falling?

[@jcszot]

My mother fell three days before Easter Sunday. She fell on a Friday night around 7 o’clock. She starts drinking at four when her news program comes on. She fell on Friday night and didn’t tell anybody and didn’t use her life alert. She was able to get up and get to a chair, but she basically fell on her face. By the time she gave in and called my sister, her entire face was black and blue. Her knee was torn open and required 15 stitches. After two rounds of antibiotics the infection is still lingering and now she needs wound care. We’ve talked to her about her alcohol numerous times. We have offered our support, willing to attend meetings with her, but she won’t give it up. She’s on a path that’s not gonna end well. I guess my biggest fear is people are going to think that she was neglected and she is not. She’s just unwilling to face her addiction and give it up. I saw a quote once in a booklet I was reading & it really resonated with me. ‘My recovery has to come first so everything I love doesn’t come last.’ We just really don’t know what else to do. Congratulations on your sobriety. 🙏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻💪🏻

[@monarene44]

@@jcszot. How old is she and how can she afford to buy this much alcohol? Does someone bring it to her? I’m sorry for your circumstances.

[@user-yo7gt6hb1l]

Love this, 82 !

[@KiwiKirsty1983]

I am 2 years sober as of the 13th March 2024. People need to encourage people who change their lives. Thank you Mel. 😊 Alcohol does ruin lives.

[@xyz-gx9oy]

Congratulations! ❤

[@awalker127]

Encouragement is fine, but it's a recipe for disaster if you're relying on that to stay on the path. People need to find their own motivation to keep going and celebrate their own successes. Looking for anything from an external source isn't sustainable

[@kat1701]

I had a moment of clarity recently. When i metabolize alcohol, it drives me into a depression for weeks. Haven’t touched alcohol since 03/02/2024 and no longer plan to

[@FitforLife2024]

I wasn’t drinking much but decided to completely stop 8 days ago. I do feel happier and better overall.

[@jenniferg5745]

I had the same realization in 2013. I’ve had it three times since and regretted it each time. It’s not worth it.

[@ssgundes1]

Yeah I have neuropathy and that flares every time I drink etoh. I don’t even know why I drink alcohol I just want to feel better

[@PriusTurbo]

Good for you. It does the same thing to me. I decided to quit back in November but I’ve had a few occasions of drinking since and I’ve regretted it each time. If you stop, don’t ever forget why you stopped.

[@davidhendricks1331]

I don't disagree with anything the two of drinking in moderation, but I don't think weed is the holy thing the country think it is ,perhaps a show on the affects of weed.

[@sleepinglady2778]

Quit alcohol in 2019. Best decision ever.

[@breannacarels6479]

Quit in 2020. 100% agree

[@sleepinglady2778]

It took like 5 years total. On and off wagon. But with each off the wagon period, it was easier to see how the alcohol was affecting my ability to think and function. 2.5 years in Cognitive Based Therapy (CBT) outpatient rehab really helped. It doesn't happen overnight for some people. Stuck with the process and put faith in God and self. God bless you 🙏

[@terjehansen0101]

Let me guess: You're now boring sods who evangelize your whole frinds circle with your cult beliefs ?

[@AbdoAbdo-gz1km]

Me as a Muslim alcohol is forbidden in my religion

[@fitnesssoup7553]

Poison. To you and all those that have chosen to leave alcohol behind and embrace a healthy life path, congratulations! There's so many damaging affects associated with it. It's not easy to stop and there's lots of influences at play encouraging alcohol use. How very commendable of you.

[@pincher62]

I was off alcohol for 9 months and started again on a lads holiday. Didn't drink for 3 weeks when I got home, but then started again. I have now been drinking for about 3 weeks. Disgusted with myself after doing so well. Today my sober journey starts again.

[@insulinaddict8303]

You can do this ❤

[@OziBlokeTimG]

I stopped drinking alcohol, all of a sudden I had no friends. Speaks volumes. Some times you have to choose..... it's a mind game. Love you all. 😍 💋

[@Contessa998]

Ditto for different reasons

[@danlechlak1183]

Yep, im a drinker and really dont want non drinkers around. Too boring, just my preference

[@meateater4life551]

For sure, buzzkills ruin a good night out.

[@MsMelody]

I'll be a friend..😊I had the same thing happen. Sad, but it's better that way anyway.

[@patrickwalker-nolan7617]

My old auntie Bess who loved to drink explained to me that drinkers don’t have friends, they have cronies. I wondered what this meant. A friend whose father, a big drinker, went to the bar his dad had formerly hung out at and told his drinking cronies that his dad had died and when the funeral would be. No one from the bar showed up to the funeral. I think that’s the difference.

[@gamacaluso]

Wine has been a huge part of my life. Growing up in an Italian family …living in the CA wine country and working at a restaurant or winery it’s been a part of my life. Cutting back the habit of drinking wine everyday has not been easy. I started drinking a non- alcoholic beverage in a wine glass every night with dinner rather than wine to break the daily habit. I never drink alcohol at home and only allow myself one glass on a special occasion no more than twice a month. Listening to information like this continues to keep me strong and healthy. THANK YOU MEL ❤️

[@k80rock]

Thank you for sharing! Good idea to replace daily wine w/a non-alcohol bev in a wine glass! Fantastic🎉

[@martinrea8548]

Wine is nice, especially with food. I can do without beer no problem, but giving up the pleasure wine brings is a tall order.

[@MM-jf6sh]

Please listen to Allen carr’s “easy way to control alcohol” audiobook. It is simple and easy to quit and change your life.

[@annathompson8613]

I love a glass of white wine. I find it very relaxing. 2 x a week only

[@johncronin5311]

Alcohol​@@martinrea8548

[@susanwigfiwigfield2866]

June 25, 2024 45 years sober. Grateful.

[@ninijellybeanie6853]

Wow!!!!!!

[@Edmond347]

You wasted 45 years of your life. Congratulations.

[@nmatthew7469]

I've been sober for years and enjoy the health benefits of a glass of red wine every day.👍

[@johncronin5311]

​@nmatthew7469 like what?

[@guysumpthin2974]

@@nmatthew7469 news flash !! Walking a straight line doesn’t mean you’re sober . Did you skip the entire video?

[@pattirowe]

I quit drinking in 2019...I will never regret this decision...despite losing all my friends because I no longer drank. I feel a much more spiritual clarity since I stopped drinking

[@Gunter_Custom]

Same here stopped in 2019 . And some of my so-called friends were even mad at me for not drinking with them anymore and got mad when I would not even do a shot with them ..😢 I still hung out with most . But I watched them and realized they were mostly only friends because of the drinking .. Which now that I'm not drinking seems really weird and pushes me to not hang out with them anymore .. which is fine, I still have a lot I want to do in life .. but I still feel like I have lost a lot of friends. Which is sad 😢

[@OziBlokeTimG]

Exactly, I'm have same issues. It really makes a person socialize differently. I love good company but early in the journey found it difficult. All my socializing revolved around consumption....

[@MsMelody]

Yay!! Me too! I quit pre pandemic. I swear, not even the stress of a pandemic made me want to return to the poison. My life is so much better without it. Congratulations friend! ❤🎉🎆

[@OziBlokeTimG]

I'm with you guy's all the way. I don't mind not having the drinking buddies. It's a different fantasy. I mean staying as real as you can. The good times in life when they arrive are accentuated and more intense, true story.....

[@luvmy9indy]

Quit drinking Oct. 2023. Most amazing decision ever. Wish I'd never touched in the first place. My life is at peace.

[@d20a55]

Quite alcohol 8 months ago. It was the best decision I ever made for my physical, mental and financial health!

[@lauragomez7024]

Sober since 1987…every bad decision was a result of drinking…and so thankful to our recovering community and you!

[@nancychandler3673]

My whole family are alcoholics. 😢I can't reach them as they struggle with Alcoholic dementia. Thanks for speaking about this damaging addiction. 🙏

[@guysumpthin2974]

“Nobody ever regrets doing the right thing”. -grandma

[@nicolemillward287]

5 years sober as of yesterday! Truly, one of the best decisions I have ever made! My nightly wine habit was becoming problematic. It crept up on me so slowly I didn’t really notice until it had gotten to the point where I was drinking a bottle and a half of wine a night.

[@wisconsinfarmer4742]

One night I hit a full bottle of wine. It was a wake-up. It did creep up.

[@kathyk8748]

9/13/2023 - 207 days FREE today! Still have difficulty on vacations and holidays but sparkling water with juice and sobriety videos like these help. Blessings to all who have chosen this new way of living! ❤

[@kimwieczorek1879]

One day at a time❤

[@anli9730]

I am so happy for everyone here who has stopped drinking or is sober curious! I am rooting for y'all!!

[@TobieJohnson]

Let’s be honest here. Alcohol IS a poison, period. I gave it up and now ALL the things I’ve been trying to attain for my health are coming to be. I would never tell someone drinking is a GOOD idea.

[@richsherman3673]

Quit after thankggiving 2023, never felt better, it is like I became a teenager again. I am 62.

[@maryjaneshippen3815]

same here at age 76..i am not even tempted. health problems stopped me.

[@nextlevelsuki]

I'm currently at Day 79 of no alcohol! I never thought I would be here! It was no longer aligning with my health/elevation journey. I'm excited to check out this episode!

[@thesingingviolinist]

Quit alcohol last year and it was the best decision of my life - no more feeling horrible for weeks after

[@vincewarren1271]

Not only did I experience some amnesia, what made me put the bottle down was realizing alcohol was changing my reward system. When I was drinking, I no longer enjoyed the hobbies that I once did. They didn't feel good. Not even hanging out with friends unless there was alcohol. Once I put the drinking on halt, hobbies like playing guitar became appealing again. I now realize what they mean when they say alcohol will rob you of living. Everything felt dull unless I was drinking while doing it 🙁

[@WhereTheRainbowEnds1111]

Last time I drank was in 2020! I've never liked drinking, I was an infrequent drinker- but realized how negatively it impacted my health physically & mentally. I've never felt better. Also stopped smoking medical marijuana almost a year & a half ago & I feel so so much better. I don't drink caffeine anymore, I've cut out eating a lot of sweets (still enjoy them once in a while!) & am beginning to work out. I feel like living without stimulants is a really great thing & it's helped me to heal a lot- physically, mentally, spiritually. I've become a better mom, better friend & human in general since I got on this train!

[@JackAnthony-tj8ko]

Hello I am so sorry if this sounds weirds but you wrote such a nice and wonderful comment. I can tell your very positive person, if it's . Okay with you l'd love to be friends❤

[@inca3370]

Burpee Girl on YT is excellent.

[@stevemarshall3986]

Yes Jack it is weird. This isn't a dating site.

[@kristalhance5932]

Thank you for this, Mel! Like you, I feel great when I don't drink and go really long stretches without alcohol, but once that door gets opened...habits happen. After listening to this and Andrew Huberman's podcast on alcohol, I think I'm done. It just doesn't do anything for me anymore and it wrecks my sleep.

[@Christel-sx7er]

Kristalhance5932 I am right there with you...let's see how long we can go without. I'm trying

[@MM-jf6sh]

Please listen to Allen carr’s “easy way to control alcohol” audiobook. It is simple and easy to quit and change your life.

[@OziBlokeTimG]

stay strong 💪 🤘

[@beckeydraper]

I’ve quit for a year and a half and hands down my life and mental health has never been better. Even drinking just once or twice a week was affecting my mental state and causing me to have more anxiety.

[@shahrnoush]

I’m beyond grateful that I grew up in a family and environment that Alcohol consumption was a taboo. I never had a drop of alcohol in my life. I adore and have respect for every single cell of my precious body. ❤

[@kingkollins3322]

Binge drinking alcohol. 2 yrs of sobriety. Gave up cigarettes and drinking alcohol in 2022. Had to go away for detox and rehab. 30 days to finally get it right. Changed my circle as well.

[@boundless_balance]

Mel, thank you! As a health coach who drank wine every weekend and decided to give it up completely to live my most authentic life and be the best coach, mother, friend, partner and grandmother, I am so happy that this topic is being talked about. It was hard when the weekend would come and I felt like I didn't have anything to kick back and relax to, until I started going deeper into what makes me happy, calm and relaxed. I found giving up alcohol is one of the best decisions of my life. I'm hoping more and more people will find themselves on an alcohol-free journey.

[@taradaehn4569]

Thank you for sharing this. I need to go deeper into what makes me calm and relaxed.

[@ZaneLiebrum]

I loved drinking for many years but finally made the decision to completely quit last july. Like others have said, best decision ever!

[@robertgann742]

Fascinating video, Let's stop taking relationship and family for granted. I have battled depression since my wife left me. I have tried all I can to make her see that I love her with everything I am made of but she has insisted on leaving. This has made me so empty, and I do not know what to do. I can barely function properly at work. I am frustrated and miserable. I really miss her.

[@MalcolmM.Stanton-hy4jb]

Your pain resonates with me. Letting go of someone dear to your heart is an immense challenge. I found myself in a comparable situation when my 12-year-long relationship ended, and I struggled to accept it. Despite my efforts to reconcile, I eventually turned to a spiritual counsellor for guidance, which eventually led to a reunion. I'm now filled with joy

[@robertgann742]

I'm keen on meeting the counsellor you're talking about. What steps should I take?

[@MalcolmM.Stanton-hy4jb]

Online, you'll find shelly renee white, revered for her expertise as a spiritual counsellor. She has the ability to reunite couples and promote holistic well-being

[@robertgann742]

Thank you for this information. I have just looked her up on Google. impressive.

[@MassageMagick1111]

Aww sorry.

[@Jaye-ky6wc]

6 weeks sober, today 😊 In and out of recovery, for 30 yrs! Hope springs eternal, it is NEVER too late, to reclaim your life and joy.

[@BroSlayzer]

Mel thank you! We are assaulted by the poison and its up to us to spread the truth. Its about helping the alcoholic and getting freed. I am 5 months free from alcohol! It's one day at a time, working out, healing and restoration. Leads to forgive and love ourselves and others.

[@barbarah6220]

Oh boy, at 68 this is really resonating.

[@mysticone9611]

Just celebrated my 3 year soberversary!! 🎉❤

[@scruffy4647]

I always thought alcohol was a way to enjoy life. Once I change my way of thinking, it was easy to quit.

[@MNP208]

I recently saw a young person (30’s) in my clinic who was two years sober. He looked amazing!

[@emh8861]

Makes a huge difference in your looks .

[@trohleder94]

My son died of alcohol; he had what was called a tonic/clonic seizure. He was found dead. The grief is so hard his mother and I haven't been the same.

[@marigolds49]

omg

[@Jazmin-mb7ju]

I quit alcohol June 25th 2022 and have never looked back. It’s been the best decision I ever made🥰 I was already drinking less and less but decided it wasn’t worth it while raising two toddler boys and needing to be on my A GAME and the best version of myself for these two little boys. They won’t ever remember mom having a glass of wine in her hand and I want to model what I would want for them 💕🙏🏻🥰

[@marysegura5157]

Congratulations wish I would have did that my two daughters grew up seeing me drink 4 or six beers everyday been sober now for six months best decision ever wish I would’ve done it years ago god bless

[@movinonup1368]

I love this!!! Back in Aug of 2023... my goal for my 40th birthday (Dec.) Was to really be serious about my health and well-being. I completely cut alcohol since then. It's been 7 months and I feel soooooo amazing!!! I had my first drink when I was 14 years old. 😢. I started getting depressed, anxiety as I got older. Thank God I didn't become a full on alcoholic but I started seeing I was using work related stress and grabbing a drink to relieve the stress. With no alcohol, your brain makes you shift your thought process. Force you to address the stressor full on. I couldn't be more happier. Prayers to all those who are thinking of cutting alcohol. Their are so many health benefits . Weight loss, muscle gain and a sharper mind. ❤

[@jenniferschneider6979]

Fabulous content! Should be shown in every high school, college, nursing program and medical school. TY!

[@savsittz]

I struggled with alcohol for a long time, the majority of my early twenties. The last 2 years I’ve remained alcohol free with the exception of 2 vacations, I choose to drink on vacation and that works for ME. Realizing that I’m not completely giving it up forever is kind of what helped me finally stop drinking every single day. I strongly agree with the thought process that it doesn’t have to be something you completely give up, and I also strongly agree with informing people that there is basically no benefit to drinking, at all!

[@JackAnthony-tj8ko]

Hello I am so sorry if this sounds weirds but you wrote such a nice and wonderful comment. I can tell your very positive person, if it's . Okay with you l'd love to be friends❤

[@rosiet253]

Stopped drinking completely in 1987 as a college sophomore. Best decision ever! Never liked it anyway, the taste or how it made me feel. Great video!

[@sultanciarra11]

I stopped drinking 5 years ago. The clarity, happiness and just being able to feel great everyday is immense. I would drink beers but one to many. It was like there was something in them that made me want more. I broke my wrist and couldn't drink and after few weeks I realized that I didn't need it anymore. I went cold turkey and stayed that way. Never messed with the just one couldn't hurt deal. Back running again and on top. Sarah is very good and love her approach. New to this show and subscribed. Good video.

[@kathleenm3443]

I stopped drinking alcohol nearly 20 years ago. I was on antidepressants and stopped them too. Alcohol depressed me more. I don’t miss alcohol, and don’t think there is any benefit to drinking. No net benefit to drinking.

[@SB-lh2yb]

I'm not tech savvy and I don't know how I was able to see KZbin on my computer but there was a good reason your channel/episode appeared. This one episode absolutely changed my relationship with alcohol. Thank you so very much for the eye opening information!

[@loridejesus2663]

I absolutely love this episode !! ❤ I stopped drinking April 20, 2023 and have never been happier with a decision!! I was never a huge drinker, and would go weeks to months in between. But when I did drink, I would either have just two, or end up blacked out! Sleep was always horrible, the hangovers were brutal and took so many days to get back to normal. I come from a family of alcoholics and was always very aware and in check. But as I approach 50, it’s just no longer appealing to me at all!!

[@patrickwalker-nolan7617]

Well done you, I know how that is: there are alcoholics in my family. Stay strong. ❤️❤️❤️

[@Patriotwoman1976]

I quit in 2022, one of the best decisions I ever made.

[@audreyoreilly4055]

I gave up for dry Janary 5 years ago, and enjoyed the benifits so much, I kept going. A few months ago I was accidentally given a bottle of alcoholic beer as opposed to the alcohol-frei I ordered. Jesus, I felt drunk after 1/2 a bottle. I stopped, but the next day, was hungover, depressed and slept like shit!! After half a bottle! It really made me aware of how potent alcohol is.

[@lynnpayneart9722]

Quit this year after 40 years of nightly wine, which could be 3 generous glasses. I never got drunk and only indulged after 5. I was disciplined. My 24 year old daughter confronted me as she observed me pouring another drink, and that woke me up! I want to be a mom that my daughter looks up to and can count on. Not to mention, I dont want my health to suffer from something I can prevent. I can make a good mocktail, even seltzer in a wine glass at happy hour works.

[@progressnotperfection1839]

My grandpa died of liver cirrhosis from hard alcohol, my dad developed dementia from beer before he died and after losing many loved ones, I find myself leaning more and more on alcohol to cope. This was truly an eye opener for me and I thank you for this discussion.

[@jeepsahara333]

I stopped drinking alcohol 5 years ago-no issues, just chose to stop alcohol and meat. I do however have a good friend who drinks daily- heavily (IMO) on the weekends, and he’s an intelligent, highly functioning engineer and athlete. It amazes me to see alcohol NOT phase him, his weight or health (he’s 51). He’s from Ireland 🍀

[@chuchum6413]

Until it does…

[@danlechlak1183]

Lol, good for him enjoying life on his terms! Had a cousin born blind and 6:40 deaf... We have a minute on this planet, everybody gets a turn

[@michaelquinn8618]

It will catch up to him

[@kitsywedekind8928]

faze

[@user-yu4em5rk2w]

I love this Dr’s compassion for humanity. Beautiful person.

[@baiwatch1]

Alcohol is not all the same molecule. The type of alcohol in wine, beer, and liquor is called ethanol. The type of alcohol used in rubbing alcohol and household cleaners is called isopropyl alcohol. Isopropyl alcohol is more intoxicating and a lot more dangerous to the body than ethanol is. I think Dr. Sarah Wakeman said they were the same, because she wants to help scare people off drinking alcoholic beverages. But it is concerning, in this political climate, for me to hear a representative of the medical community saying something untrue about substances and the human body, in a podcast with a large listenership. Public distrust in medical professionals is already a serious and deadly social issue.

[@Katsu5725]

I did some research and you are right. Is crazy that this doctor is saying that they are the same.

[@annoyedaussie3942]

Totally agree, people might consider drinking the isopropyl alcohol in hand sanitiser for example because it's cheaper and a medical professional said it's the same.

[@MM-wi5dn]

This undermines every word she says. Cannot get something this basic wrong.

[@jlskeptic]

Playing to the ignorance in a society to create a deterrent to a substance does not work. See "Say No To Drugs." Sure, she's making valid points on the negative effects of alcohol on the mind and body... but, I lost all reliance on her level of acuity as a researcher. However, her vernacular coincides more to the mindset of how to inform an addict than it does to expressing scientific knowledge.

[@gregmaland5318]

I can't believe the "expert" was so mistaken on a basic point like this. I mean, I do believe it, but it's so bizarre. A seventh grader would probably have known this if they were going to do a presentation on alcohol.

[@daleandrews3698]

I've been quit for 102 days and over the past week or so been seriously tempted to revert back to alcohol, but I have to thank Mel and Sarah, this has really helped to put me back on track.

[@LindaCraftRaleigh]

Hi Mel, love all your podcasts and share them with my tribe all the time. Was disappointed when you asked the question about getting help for the family that Sarah did not say go to Al-Anon, Alateen and AA. These proven 12-step programs have helped millions of people, and they are free. She addressed the scientific and physical truths of alcohol wonderfully, but she did not address the emotional and spiritual components that cause people to drink in the first place. I believe you need a part two on this one. Yes, treatment centers work to detox the physical part of the body, but the root cause of alcohol abuse is more than physical. It's emotional and spiritual. Support is needed for people to live their best life free of alcohol and its effects. Removing the alcohol from the body and not addressing the emotional and spiritual damage left behind means the person is left sober, but not healthy, happy, or whole. And the family has been greatly affected and needs help too. Just because one person is sober what about the rest of the loved ones? Where do they get help? Al-Anon and Alateen is for the families to heal. Abstinence is not healing. It's one small part and the entire family has been affected. A treatment center is only the beginning not the complete answer. Would be wonderful if Sarah would go to meetings and hear the pain children and spouse are trying to heal from even after a parent got sober in her hospital. She seemed very compassionate, kind, and an unconditionally loving person. Which is why she really needs to learn about AA, Al-Anon and Alateen for the families of those she treats. There is so much more than just removing alcohol from the physical body. Thanks for reading and considering a part two.

[@patrickwalker-nolan7617]

A well considered and constructive piece, which raised questions for me. I abandoned alcohol some 11 months ago after almost a lifetime of drinking from the age of 14 to 72. I stopped because my youngest daughter, a capable and competent professional woman of 32 with whom I was staying at the time, asked me about my swollen ankles. I explained that this was an aspect of heart disease. My daughter spontaneously burst into tears and said, “I don’t want you to die”. I crossly retorted that I have no control over the time or place of my death. On later reflection I later realised that this was not entirely true. I’d given up going to the doctor and hospital and had quietly made a pact with myself to quietly depart this life whilst embracing the fact that continuing to drink would probably kill me sooner rather than later. My daughter’s tears made me realise that this selfish policy would cause pain for a number of people (I have a wife, 5 children and 8 grandchildren). This realisation made me resume my medical appointments and stop drinking alcohol. My first appointment with the heart hospital (for an MRI) revealed that I had a growth on my adrenal gland, which was removed last November. My diabetic medication has been reduced and luckily I didn’t need any hormone replacement therapy since my remaining adrenal gland kicked in and compensated for the removed one. Many would say I’m a fortunate man whose sense of proportion has been restored and they would be right. It sometimes takes an approaching catastrophe to make one realise what is important. I still have heart disease and diabetes but the scales of selfishness that had blinded me for so long have fallen. I better understand what I have and I’m better able to look after it, though I still have to die one day. I admire everyone that tries to alert their fellow humans to the dreadful dangers of alcohol, and give them help with changing their mindset towards it. It is hard work getting out of the alcohol habit, but try to remember it won’t make you richer, more attractive, or resolve your social difficulties; they’ll be there in the morning. It doesn’t give you membership of the Diplomatic Core or give you more than a very temporary sense of well being. It can make you obnoxious and insufferable and make you ill sometimes for days at a time. If you need fair weather friends and like apologising for words and actions you only half remember please take no notice of what I’ve written. Good luck to everyone trying to stop alcohol: it’s difficult but so worthwhile.

[@meredithbroome1935]

While AA and Al-Anon have helped many people, they are patriarchal programs that do not resonate with nor offer help to everyone who struggles with alcohol use disorder.

[@derekkupczyk3011]

I quit drinking any kind of alcohol 13 months ago. I am so happy about that . Thank you for this program which has HUGE load of information and I hope that many people will stop using alcohol to improve their health style. Thank you 🙏.

[@williamcharlesturner]

Congratulations on quitting in 2019 Mel. Day 4 for me off alcohol and cannabis. Thank you for your authenticity, your show and the conversation with Dr. Sarah Wakeman.

[@karencreighton7939]

I work as a CNA on the neurology floor in a large hospital. It seems at least half of our patients with serious or life-ending illnesses have an alcohol issue that’s damaged their kidneys, livers, and brains.

[@learningvideosbynikhil8308]

Wait really? Can you talk more about it by the way? I’m a little bit curious!

[@cherylkeller5181]

I believe it

[@JRcalifornia]

If you’re not ready to quit, consider at least once a year give it up for 2 straight months. For a long time I considered myself a moderate drinker who didn’t need to quit, but I quit for 30 days and I could tell my health improved. For a while I tried to only drink 2 drinks on the weekend, but 2 drinks sometimes turns to 3 or 4 because with wine, you have to finish the bottle. And the health problems came back. That included anxiety and digestive issues such as heartburn and acid reflux. I don’t think I should drink more than once a month if at all. But that’s up to each person. I’m on another dry period and I just hit 30 days. I’m not ready to give up the health gains, so I’m gonna stay dry another month and reevaluate if drinking is worth it.

[@cherylphillips6168]

WOW! Such great info with no judgement ❤️. My mom was an alcoholic, crossed addicted and took her own life at age 43. We have family and friends that are truly abusing alcohol. One is one of my sons. I’m not communicating with him at this time to just cope with how he is treating me. I need to find a way to get him this content. I’m not a big drinker. I haven’t drank for over 60 days and find I’m feeling so much better. This was so informative and I will watch it again. Thank You so much for sharing. I ❤️ watching you Mel. Thanks for keeping it all real.

[@christineclark2479]

I love her professionalism and delivery. Content A+

[@thomanderson7981]

Dr. Wakeman is very nuanced, smooth, subtle in her approach to the subject of alcohol use & addiction.

[@barbarahall5514]

Tragedy is…no one wants to address the “root” of the problem when drinking is hurting you. Very few if any of our role models teach us how to deal with life’s ugliness….so, people drink to cope. Weak & sad. Principles in the Bible & Gods love I cleaned up my act and radically changed my life. As a man thinks…so is HE…..( & is in the Bible) ❤ proverbs 23:7

[@russmcmeans4667]

I forgot to mention that I'm swimming and walking and eating healthy. That's really important. Hopefully these severely compressed nerve roots will calm down. Please pray for me 🙏💕

[@Suleah]

Quit nov 2020. No regrets. So thankful. Best advice I have for people is don’t wait to chill out with drinking for something in your health to hit the fan. If you have the knowledge you can use it before your body breaks down. Proactive vs. reactive is best.

[@rm26367]

I personally don’t care for it nor do I care to be around people who drink more than they can handle or get drunk. I am absolutely against drunk drivers, become one after a drunk driver killed 3 of my cousin and paralyzed the 4th one all in one accident. I was a bartender for 10 years and my customers fought me when I refused to serve them. The addiction is horrible, it can destroy families and lives yet it is legal and socially acceptable.

[@user-px9qk5yr4f]

Thank you so much Mel and what an amazing Doctor. I have been binge drinking since I have been 16. I am now nearly 60. This is just what I needed to hear. So many goals and life to live. Iam going to take every bit of advise the Doctor recommended. I do not every want to drink again, so day one for me. Thank you so much. I also burst out crying when you said at the end that you love and care about me, so I'm pretty fucked up I guess. So thank you, so very much. I will watch this video many times. Love you too, Robbie, Australia xx❤

[@thorstenroberts4726]

I find it disappointing that a doctor that specializes in addiction couldn't say, from a medical perspective, that any alcohol is too much. Especially given that she earlier stated that any amount of alcohol is cancer promoting.

[@annettelombard925]

But isn't it obvious 😂

[@MsHellcat08]

She also never said Alcohol *is* addictive. Because it is. If you drink enough of it, often enough you WILL become addicted.

[@Rivergrl84]

Every bit of this happened to my little sister, especially the brain damage. She died at the age of 49. 💔😢

[@Charmainecharmainecharmaine]

I’m so sorry, may she rest in peace. I hope you’re ok and taking care of yourself. I just lost my brother, age 37

[@patrickwalker-nolan7617]

Sorry for your loss. Stay strong. ❤️❤️❤️

[@justcomment8516]

Mine is on the way there and is very demonstrative about her drinking.

[@judy5936]

Lost my best friend after 30 yrs. He was an intelligent Engineer who lost jobs finally drove a cab until Covid and the disease won. In a nursing home with Alcohol Dementia. I hate alcohol.

[@danahcorrigan6234]

Now 5 months of abstaining. I feel so in charge of my world these days. Working is easier, no down days. More in control of my weight. I weigh lass than I have in decades. Yahoo. Lots of benefits and Imam reluctant to break my 5 month record to even have a glass of wine when out with friends. My relationships have changed, cuz I don’t like being around drunk people. lol. I used to be one of them. I live in a big drinking community. So now I am doing my hobby painting and art. Yes happy I proved I could totally abstain. Loving all health benefits.

[@KiwiKirsty1983]

Gossip is the worst around drunk or drugging people.

[@ChristaMirabal]

I stopped drinking after one of my medications was increased and I started having Parkinson’s like tremors after having just one beer the night before. It was the best choice I have made in a long time. I have chronic feet pain due to an anomaly, accessory flexors that caused nerve damage. Well not only did I immediately lose 30 lbs, I wake up with clarity everyday. My joints don’t hurt as much and I have the desire to make other healthy choices like eating more healthy foods and practicing mindfulness.

[@user-bd1pk7xd5n]

What a wonderful conversation! Thank you both so much.

[@TheSabineanton]

I would have loved to hear more advice for people who don’t have support. Many alcoholics are already so isolated. There is no one to turn to anymore.

[@jeffmaggard3694]

Find a good AA meeting. There's lots of support in the fellowship.

[@patrickwalker-nolan7617]

KZbin is full of support and advice. I’m 11 months sober today, I didn’t have any relapses. I get the very occasional mild twinge of wishing for a drink, but intellectually I know it will no more solve my problems than a very heavy weight will for a drowning man. I count the benefits of not drinking, improved health, better finances, improved sleep and the admiration of my family. Knowing I’m not alone in the struggle to abandon alcohol is also consoling.

[@yuliacanini3482]

What a great discussion! I like a very balanced and gentle approach without feeling the shame. 🙏🏼

[@rachelroseg9295]

This interview was actually super informative and helpful. Very refreshing tone and content, much appreciated!

[@roadrunnerfromhh3162]

I quit almost 12 months ago. Best decision ever.

[@anitarankin3453]

Thank you My friend Mel Robbins❤ Brilliant conversation Dr.Wakeman❤

[@tammicross1982]

I love that you are learning this at the same time as we are. I always appreciate the information you share with us.

[@matapudwell8813]

So informative. Thank you ladies. Dr Sarah is so compassionate and understanding ❤

[@elizabethmanz7940]

Thank you Mel for this video, literally perfect timing for me to hear the information for myself and a loved one!!!! Thank you for saving lives 🙏🥰

[@bettymaugeri7316]

Took quite a while before friends and family stopped insisting I have “just one” when we socialized whether going out to eat or any social occasion. I felt cornered having to defend myself as well. ( No one knew I liked to drink by myself - sober for about 15 years now). The same happened a couple of years ago when I transitioned to a plant based diet. ( I have gut and reflux disease). One friend always brings up “how good” I am again I feel I have to defend myself!

[@c.oconnell3904]

wow, I love how caring and sincere Dr. Wakeman is! This was a great episode, Mel, Thanks!

[@movingloz]

My last drink was September 30th 2017. Always been a bigger and bigger drinker and it’s helped me get over a few really bad times. It helped me cope and get through without jumping off a bridge I tell ya. I come from a family that drinks. Mid 50’s now and I just had a wake up call. Was totally wasted that last night and knew that I had to stop, and I did. This is such a terrific podcast and I only say my past to explain that this is coming from someone that’s been there. I so appreciate the way the approach to drinkers has changed to one of wanting to help rather than attacking them. Seriously so a wonderful helpful podcast. Thank you 🙏.

[@jacquelinebreedlove5938]

Thank you Mel Robbins this could not have come along at a better time.

[@DestinyA83]

I was honest with my primary care physician and it got noted in my chart that I have a problem with abusing alcohol and to this day, they won't give me anything stronger than regular Tylenol. Even after I had surgery. Nothing. Note, I quit smoking cold turkey after 20+ years in November 2019 and quit drinking August 2021!

[@kimwieczorek1879]

Sucks in that regard. Honesty is not always best policy. To not get pain relief after surgery😢

[@annaathome2995]

Yes unfortunately, these days,everything goes into the medical records,if you tel your P MD that you have2 drinks a week they assume that you are hiding the truth and records 2drinks daily and the myth goes on. 😢 sad, but true

[@MH-di5ur]

I know I am not concerned how alcohol affects medications, because I am symptom free and taking no medication at 79, nutrient conscious and very active working. I noticed on a river cruise there was what looked like a still in a castle 1200 years old. When I asked I was confirmed. The whole village drank the product, even the children, all due to the dangerous local water. I was told the alcohol content was weaker. ???. AA says people drink to anesthetize internal pain. My parents generation drank with abandon. I have watched alcoholism in family and friends, recently a friend dead stopped beer and was hospitalized in a coma for 50+ days. This story didn't end well with his family situation. My parents were both 'functional' alcoholics. Ultimately they taught me what not to do. Thanks for the vid.

[@cindyramsey512]

Thank you Mel. You hit the target again!!!😊 I just turned 65. And just knowing about this is very rewarding to know.

[@Kathyaaybeauty]

This was amazing timing! ❤❤❤ Thank you for this. I needed it. I am a boomer who works around a lot of younger people and for some reason, I thought it made me appear like a "cool and hip" person to comment when it was a particularly bad day, "Im definitely having a bourbon tonight!" which always caused my co-workers to giggle. What a mindset change now!

[@maritzatacoronte5801]

YES! ughghgh

[@MM-jf6sh]

Please listen to Allen carr’s “easy way to control alcohol” audiobook. It is simple and easy to quit and change your life.

[@bindilove3899]

I’m 19 years sober and I have never looked back. Getting sober was the key to loving and respecting myself. Don’t worry about the friends you may lose when you quit drinking, if they don’t support your sobriety you don’t need them. You will find your tribe. 🥰

[@Fartboy226]

🍻

[@maryjoan4128]

Fabulous educational pod cast THANK YOU,, I have shared it,,, having been married to a severe alcoholic,, I struggle with the kind and loving approach,, its hard to be compassionate when living in the nightmare,,,

[@mjc8459]

WOW ! Just when I thought I knew every possible approach.. I learn of even better.. Thank you for sharing this knowledge and understanding.

[@Fitnessoncallnaples]

The most eloquent and informative professional I have heard to help shed light on a dangerous substance. Anyone should also be made aware about the use of antidepressants and alcohol. Antidepressants magnify the effects of alcohol use. It may be the trigger that tips one over ( no pun) the line into alcohol use disorder. This doctor has an amazing, powerful, and effective speaker that is ideal for the patient as well as for family/friends! Mel, you found a gem of an interviewee! Fabulous as always Mel!! Mel from Mel❤

[@JackAnthony-tj8ko]

Hello I am so sorry if this sounds weirds but you wrote such a nice and wonderful comment. I can tell your very positive person, if it's . Okay with you l'd love to be friends❤

[@breannacarels6479]

This is an important conversation… but I think it is important to stress that for many people moderation is not an option. If you can’t consistently control how much you drink or what happens when you drink, then you likely have a problem and will need help. For me 12 step work was the magic potion I needed. Changed my life 100% for the better. I wish I had taken the leap sooner.

[@JackAnthony-tj8ko]

Hello I am so sorry if this sounds weirds but you wrote such a nice and wonderful comment. I can tell your very positive person, if it's . Okay with you l'd love to be friends❤

[@MM-jf6sh]

Please listen to Allen carr’s “easy way to control alcohol” audiobook. It is simple and easy to quit and change your life.

[@MsHellcat08]

Moderation is a myth for most people.

[@brendaharker5939]

My son is an alcoholic he was sober for 5 years and relapsed. After almost 2 years of drinking again he has been sober for a few months. Alcohol is scary. I’ve lived it with my son and I worry about him all the time. I know so many ppl who have died from alcoholism, my sister died from alcoholism 3 years ago.

[@karmankruschke]

WONderful discussion! How articulate and pleasant is this doctor! I stumbled upon this but I have shared it, so thank you Mel and Sarah! I needed to hear this.

[@khall763]

This was fantastic and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. And whenever you say, I love you and I believe in you at the end, I start to cry. So thank you for that.❤

[@annlindquist5110]

I just love you ! You are so relatable and real ! This is just what I needed

[@loomis19]

Excellent! Thank you so much for this discussion!

[@tjadventures9163]

Husband stopped drinking a few yrs back so I did too. Best decision ever. Always feel good and no more stomach issues.