#OcSober Is Near - What Are The Benefits?

Taking a month-long break from alcohol during October will benefit you - and charity. Next month is OcSober, a month in which South Africans are encouraged to refrain from alcohol use as part of a campaign to raise awareness about alcohol misuse. The concept is simple: stay sober in October and donate the money you would have spent on alcohol to charity.

Consider the following benefits of joining the bandwagon as you prepare for next month:

BETTER SLEEP

When you drink too much, you spend less time sleeping soundly and restfully. You're also more likely to wake up early and have difficulty falling back asleep. Better sleep has a positive impact on your mood and ability to concentrate.

BETTER MOODS

If you're already depressed or nervous, drinking may likely increase those feelings. You are likely to feel down and depressed the day after drinking alcohol.

EXTRA ENERGY

Alcohol can impair your immune system, making it more difficult to fight diseases. Excessive drinking can also make you feel weary, sluggish, and unwell.

IMPROVED CONCENTRATION

Regularly drinking above the alcohol unit guidelines (no more than 14 units per week) will affect your concentration and ability to work.

IMPROVED SKIN

Alcohol causes your skin to become dull and grey by dehydrating it. You'll appear less than your best if you have bags under your eyes from a lack of sleep.

WEIGHT IMPROVEMENT

Alcoholic beverages are high in calories and can contribute to weight gain. If you only drink one beer every day for a week, you'll have ingested over 1,500 less calories.

A BETTER STOMACH

You can avoid problems like diarrhoea and indigestion by drinking less. Alcohol irritates the stomach and increases acid production, which can lead to gastritis.

LIFESTYLE

You might discover new interests and meet new people if you try something new. You may join a sports team or adopt a hobby with the extra time you have outside of the bar.

LONG-TERM HEALTH IMPROVEMENT

Reduced alcohol use lowers your risk of developing cancer, liver and heart disease, and may lower your blood pressure.