Pour choices: the sobering truth about your nightly glass of wine

Ready to uncork the secrets to a healthier, more vibrant you? With 2024 underway, let's toast to a new chapter of well-being—together! It’s time to tap into your evening wine habit. Your nightly pour might be worth reconsidering.

While that glass of red does help you unwind, the hidden effects on your hormones (and sleep) aren’t exactly worth the price tag. In light of dry January, we’re here to spill the bubbly about alcohol. What does it actually do to your body and brain? And are women more susceptible to its side effects? Spoiler alert: yes. 

Of course, this isn’t to say that you shouldn’t enjoy a glass or two of your favorite bottle of red, red, or rosé. But with balance in mind, mull over a magnesium mocktail instead.

Myth or fact: women can’t tolerate alcohol as well as men

Dose for dose, fact.

There are a few (scientific) reasons for this. First and foremost, we can thank physiological differences in our chemistry and body structure. In comparison to men, women’s bodies contain proportionately less water and more fat. Because water dilutes alcohol and fat retains it, women’s organs are exposed to higher concentrations of alcohol for longer periods of time.

The second reason? Alcohol dehydrogenase. Dehy—what? Dehydrogenase. This is an enzyme that breaks down alcohol before it reaches the bloodstream. Dose for dose, women’s blood alcohol levels will almost always be higher than men’s. As a result, one drink for a woman is roughly equivalent to two drinks for a man. And the research proves it. 

The wine trap: hormonal hazards and sleep sabotage

We've all been there—clinking glasses after a long day, seeking a moment of relaxation. But did you know that regular alcohol consumption can throw your hormones into disarray? From elevated cortisol to disrupted melatonin production, your evening libation is likely more of a hormonal hangover and sleep saboteur than anything else.

How does alcohol affect hormones?

It’s a bit complex. Initially, it can stimulate the release of feel-good neurotransmitters, like dopamine. This contributes to the immediate sense of relaxation and euphoria. However, over time, chronic alcohol consumption disrupts your body’s delicate hormonal interplay. For example, it interferes with cortisol, which may contribute to anxiety and sleep disturbances. 

Additionally, alcohol alters the secretion of reproductive hormones. And this affects the menstrual cycle. In essence, the liver's priority in metabolizing alcohol compromises its ability to regulate hormones. It’s a lose-lose situation. Overall, the prolonged influence of alcohol can disturb your finely-tuned hormonal equilibrium.

How does alcohol affect sleep?

Ever wonder why that post-wine sleep feels less than restful? Alcohol may initially sedate you, but it wreaks havoc on your sleep cycle. It’s a bit paradoxical. Ultimately, it impacts REM sleep, which is crucial for cognitive functions and emotional well-being. It also interferes with melatonin, a hormone that regulates our sleep-wake cycles. Consequently, we feel groggy—instead of rejuvenated—come morning.

Relish a mocktail instead

Rather than rain on your vino parade, we're here to craft a new one! Swap that nightly glass of wine for a refreshing mocktail infused with magnesium. 

Meet beeyavibe: a powerful blend of three bioavailable forms of magnesium. Rather than reach for a bottle of red, sip your way into a rejuvenating slumber with the ultimate bedtime bevvie. Get our Sleepy Time Mocktail recipe here. If you’re feeling something fizzy and bright, try our Lemon Berry Nosecco. Last but not least, this Cucumber Lime Refresher paves the path to a cool and refreshing evening drink. 

Even though there’s only a few days left of Dry January, it’s not too late to join our Dry January FB challenge. We’re keeping the zero hangovers, good vibes going and sharing our favorite mocktails and more. Sign up here to join hundreds of other women who are committed to better hormonal health. We hope to see you there!