Have you been noticing a “sober curious” or sober lifestyle grabbing social media attention? In this essential episode, we dive deep into the complex relationship between alcohol consumption and women's health during midlife and menopause. From holiday celebrations to stress management, we explore why women might increase their alcohol intake during this life stage and the surprising health implications that come with it. I also offer my suggestions for sans-alcohol options during this holiday season.

Important Statistics & Research Findings

- More than one drink disrupts sleep in 39.2% of cases

- One drink reduces sleep quality by 24%

- Even less than one drink disrupts sleep quality by 9.3%

- Women who drink three alcoholic drinks per week have a 15% higher risk of breast cancer

- Risk increases by 10% for each additional daily drink

- 66% of alcohol-attributable cancers in women were breast cancers

- Approximately 144,000 new cases of breast cancer annually are linked to alcohol consumption

- 8.6% of all breast cancer cases and 7.3% of breast cancer deaths are attributed to alcohol consumption

Impact on Menopausal Symptoms

- Increases frequency of vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes and night sweats)

- Disrupts sleep architecture:

- Increases sleep latency

- Decreases REM sleep

- Alters deep sleep patterns

- Exacerbates brain fog and cognitive issues

- May increase risk of depression and anxiety

Resources Mentioned

- Mocktail guide with recipes (available in show notes)

-Oura app for tracking sleep and alcohol consumption

- Book reference: "Upgrade" (discussing brain changes during life transitions)

-https://www.breastcancer.org/risk/risk-factors/drinking-alcohol

-https://www.sleepfoundation.org/nutrition/alcohol-and-sleep#references-78452

Connect with Me:

Learn more about the Women Mastering Midlife Community: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/community

Free 1:1 Coaching Consult Call with Victoria: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/booknow

Connect with Victoria: msvictoriabyrd

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