Drinking too much alcohol contributes to excess weight gain

Looking back at photos from the time when I was drinking, the difference in my appearance is striking. My face was bloated, and my body carried much more weight. The puffiness in my face and body was a direct result of both the alcohol consumption and the poor eating habits that often accompanied it. Alcohol, as a diuretic, can lead to dehydration, which paradoxically makes the body hold onto water, causing that puffy, swollen look.

But it wasn’t just about the alcohol itself.

When I was drinking, my judgment around food was clouded, and I found myself reaching for greasy, salty, and highly processed foods—choices I wouldn’t typically make when sober. These unhealthy foods, combined with the alcohol, led to a cycle of weight gain and inflammation. The excess calories from both the alcohol and the poor food choices quickly added up, resulting in significant weight gain over time.

Inflammation was another issue. Alcohol can trigger an inflammatory response in the body, and when combined with the consumption of inflammatory foods, it exacerbated the problem. My joints often felt achy, and I lacked the energy and vitality I have now. The water retention, poor food choices, and overall unhealthy lifestyle created a perfect storm for physical discomfort and mental dissatisfaction.

Now, looking at those old photos serves as a reminder of how far I’ve come. The decision to stop drinking has not only helped me shed the excess weight but has also led to a healthier relationship with food and a body that feels more balanced and at ease.

The importance of exercise for physical and mental health

People often ask why I exercise so much, pointing out that I’m already “skinny” enough. But for me, exercise isn’t just about how I look; it’s a crucial part of who I am and how I feel. When I don’t get some form of exercise each day, it’s as if something vital is missing from my routine. It’s not just a habit but a necessity for my mental and emotional health. Exercise helps me manage anxiety, reduces stress, and gives me a sense of clarity and calm that nothing else can provide.

People tend to focus on the physical benefits,

like weight loss or muscle tone, but they overlook how transformative exercise can be for the mind. I’ve found that when I’m active, I’m more focused, more positive, and better equipped to handle life’s challenges. The saying, “A body in motion stays in motion,” resonates deeply with me because I’ve experienced the other side of it. There was a time when I became really heavy, and the impact on my body was undeniable—my back ached, my knees were constantly sore, and I felt sluggish and uncomfortable in my own skin.

Exercise was my way out of that cycle, and it became much more than a tool for physical change. It’s my therapy, my stress relief, and my way of ensuring that I’m taking care of myself inside and out. When I move, I feel alive, connected, and in control. So when people tell me I’m already “skinny enough,” I want them to understand that for me, exercise is not about reaching a certain size or shape. It’s about maintaining a healthy mind and body, staying active to avoid the physical pain I once felt, and ensuring that I’m living my life to the fullest potential.