Alcohol is often associated with pleasure. Yet few people enjoy the taste of alcohol when they first discover it, and many stop enjoying it when it has become the insidious habit that controls their lives.
So why does the brain translate this automatic relationship between alcohol and pleasure, sometimes “falsely”?
In reality, when alcohol is consumed, dopamine is released by the brain: pleasure is stimulated.
In fact, alcohol is a great artificial stimulator of pleasure. We are therefore tempted to have another drink, because the pleasure always comes back!

Fortunately, there are healthy and tasty alternatives thanks to non-alcoholic drinks!

👉 I immediately discovered non-alcoholic drinks!

The problem: are we really talking about pleasure?

When we drink alcohol regularly, our relationship with pleasure becomes unbalanced. Indeed, our reward circuit has been conditioned by habit. It asks us to consume, no longer for pleasure (after X number of beers, where is it anyway?), but out of a motivated desire not to suffer from withdrawal.

By eliminating cravings, the goal is to return to our normal state, not feeling better! Alcohol becomes a strategy not for pleasure, but to avoid the unpleasant.

What a difference it makes!

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the relationship between alcohol and pleasure, as well as the risks associated with excessive consumption. We will also discuss sobriety and responsible consumption, in order to find a balance between pleasure and well-being.

The pleasures of alcohol: myth or reality?

It is true that alcohol can bring a feeling of pleasure and relaxation. When we drink, our body releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in the reward circuit. This creates a pleasant feeling that encourages us to continue drinking.

However, it is important to understand that this feeling of pleasure is artificial and fleeting. Alcohol works by stimulating the brain's reward system, but it can also cause long-term damage to our physical and mental health.

The risks of excessive alcohol consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption can have serious consequences on our health. It can lead to addiction, liver problems, cognitive impairment, mood disorders, sleep problems and many other complications.

It is therefore essential to drink responsibly and know our limits. Excessive alcohol consumption can not only harm our health, but also our relationships, our work, and our overall quality of life.
And then, let's say it bluntly. Today we find, for example, non-alcoholic beers fabulous in terms of flavor and which allow you to share a moment of conviviality in complete sobriety!

👉 I immediately discovered non-alcoholic beers!

Sobriety: a real healthy alternative

Sobriety does not mean giving up pleasure, but rather rediscovering it in a healthy and balanced way. It allows us to reconnect with our emotions, take care of our body and mind, and enjoy life to the fullest without depending on alcohol.

Sobriety offers many benefits, such as better physical and mental health, greater mental clarity, better sleep quality, more authentic relationships, and greater life satisfaction.

Responsible alcohol consumption

If you choose to consume alcohol, it is important to do so responsibly. This means knowing your limits, knowing when to say no, and not drinking under the influence.

Here are some tips for responsible alcohol consumption:

• Limit your consumption to moderate amounts. The World Health Organization recommends not exceeding 2 standard drinks per day for men and 1 standard drink per day for women, with 2 alcohol-free days during the week.

• Alternate alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic drinks to stay hydrated and avoid drinking too much. For example, you can start your evening with a glass of wine, then a glass of water and finally finish with a glass of alcohol-free wine !

• Never drive under the influence of alcohol. Use alternative means of transportation such as public transportation, taxis, or hire a designated driver.

• Listen to your body and respect its signals. If you feel drunk or uncomfortable, stop drinking and take care of yourself.

Pleasure without alcohol is also very cool!

It is important to emphasize that pleasure does not necessarily depend on alcohol consumption. There are many other activities and experiences that can bring us pleasure and happiness without the risks associated with alcohol.

Here are some ideas for finding pleasure without alcohol:

• Explore new activities: Try new activities that interest you, such as dancing, painting, hiking, yoga, reading, etc.

• Spend time with your loved ones: organize outings and get-togethers with friends and family. Enjoy quality time and connection without the need to drink alcohol.

• Take care of yourself: take time for yourself and do things that make you feel good, such as taking a relaxing bath, meditating, practicing breathing exercises, etc.

• Experiment with new flavors: discover tasty and refreshing non-alcoholic drinks, like mocktails, fresh fruit juices, infusions, etc.

👉 I immediately discovered non-alcoholic drinks!

To conclude…

Alcohol can bring a feeling of pleasure, but it is important to consume it responsibly. Excessive alcohol consumption can have serious consequences on our health and well-being.

Sobriety offers a healthy alternative that allows us to enjoy life to the fullest without relying on alcohol. There are many other ways to find pleasure and happiness without the risks associated with alcohol.

So let's choose sobriety and find true pleasure in life!