Expert: Peter L. - 9/22/2011

Question
Peter
I am 52. I have recently found the motivation to quit drinking, and have begun a healthier lifestyle of nutritious food choices, fresh air, and exercise.
To increase my motivation, I am wondering how long it will take to see some improvements in my health and physical appearance? I realise you are not a doctor, but in your experiance did you notice a healthier appearance after drinking in people my age, and how long after quitting?
I am lucky that I have no serious damage,other than a beer belly-more accurately a liquor belly, as I was a binge vodka drinker-at least twice a month. I do have hypertension and irritable bowel syndrome,-which may or may not have been a side effect. Thanks

Answer
Hi Barry,

Always like to hear from Canadians, and you live in a part of the country I'd love to visit sometime.  

Now on to your question:

Congratulations on your motivation to quit drinking.  That's a great decision, and you seem to be helping your recovery along with the holistic approach.

Almost daily I see many people in various states of abstinence and withdrawal.  Those who are in the most recent period of sober time, mere hours or days, will improve rapidly during a 3-day detox.  It depends a lot on how much you have consumed during your active addiction, and the nature of your lifestyle during that period.  Some heavy drinkers can buffer the adverse effects with better eating and exercise -- I have one such client now -- but that can backfire in giving the person false confidence they can continue the behavior without consequences.

But if someone has at least tried to maintain a reasonably healthy lifestyle other than the alcohol, the physical and mental recovery is faster.  I have some clients in their 20's who have done a number on their bodies and minds, and you see the damage despite their young age.

I would say you will experience fairly rapid gains if you continue the holistic approach.  You should be taking a quality multi-vitamin, one that you'd get from a health food store.  Some writers have suggested additional B vitamins.  Omega-3 fatty acids are also recommended, as well as Vitamin C.  

Salmon is a great source of Omega-3.  I would eliminate completely all sugared drinks, of which sodas are one, but also sports drinks, iced teas, and the like with added sugar.  Eliminate refined carbohydrates.  If you can afford it, try to buy organic foods as much as you can.  
And of course increase your vegetable and fruit intake, and eat blueberries with your breakfast cereal.  They greatly assist in cognitive recovery.

As I said you should see improvements weekly.  Also consider meditation, massage, acupuncture if you can afford it.  You want to bring everything you can to bear.  

Congratulations and keep up the good work!

Regards,
Peter