How to Stop Drinking Naturally: Home Remedies

One effective way to stop drinking naturally is to replace alcohol with healthy habits.

By Surfpoint Recovery Staff

Published on

September 11, 2023

Tips and Strategies to Stop Drinking Naturally

Struggling with alcohol addiction is a tough challenge that affects countless individuals globally. Seeking professional help is crucial if you're dealing with alcohol dependency.

However, there are also natural ways to reduce your alcohol intake and eventually quit drinking altogether. In this blog post, we'll explore some effective strategies for stopping drinking naturally.

Set a Goal

The first step to stopping drinking naturally is to set a clear goal. Write down your goal and make it specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). For example, your goal could be to limit your alcohol intake to one drink per day for the next month. Or, you could aim to quit drinking altogether within six months.

Find a Support System

Quitting alcohol can be tough, so it's important to have a support system in place. This could include friends, family, or a support group. You can also find online communities or forums where people share their experiences and offer support.

Replace Alcohol with Healthy Habits

One effective way to stop drinking naturally is to replace alcohol with healthy habits. This could include exercise, meditation, or other activities that help you relax and unwind. You can also try drinking herbal tea or other non-alcoholic beverages to satisfy your cravings.

Avoid Triggers

Identify the triggers that cause you to drink and try to avoid them. For example, if you tend to drink when you're stressed, find healthy ways to manage stress such as exercise or meditation. If you tend to drink when you're socializing, try to limit your social events or choose non-alcoholic options.

Get Professional Help

If you're struggling to quit drinking on your own, don't hesitate to seek professional help. This could include therapy, counseling, or medication. A healthcare professional can also help you develop a personalized plan to quit drinking.

Home Remedies and Complementary Treatments to Stop Drinking Alcohol

In addition to seeking professional help, there are several home remedies and complementary treatments you can try to stop drinking alcohol naturally.

1. Kudzu Root

Kudzu root is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been used for centuries to treat alcohol addiction. It contains a compound called daidzin, which helps reduce alcohol cravings and withdrawal symptoms. You can take kudzu root supplements or drink kudzu tea to help you quit drinking.

2. Milk Thistle

Milk thistle is an herb that has been shown to protect the liver from damage caused by alcohol consumption. It contains a compound called silymarin, which helps repair liver cells and reduce inflammation. Milk thistle supplements are widely available in health food stores.

3. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and balance. It has been shown to be effective in reducing alcohol cravings and withdrawal symptoms, as well as improving mood and sleep quality.

4. Yoga

Yoga is a mind-body practice that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. It can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression - all of which can contribute to alcohol addiction. Practicing yoga regularly can also improve your overall health and wellbeing.

5. Meditation

Meditation is a simple yet powerful tool for reducing stress and anxiety, improving focus, and promoting relaxation.

By practicing mindfulness meditation regularly, you can learn to observe your thoughts without judgment or attachment - including thoughts related to alcohol cravings - and gradually develop greater self-awareness and self-control.

Remember that home remedies and complementary treatments should be used in conjunction with other strategies for quitting drinking, such as setting goals, finding support systems, replacing unhealthy habits with healthy ones, identifying triggers, or seeking professional help.

Understand the Reasons Why You Drink and Address Them

Understanding the reasons why you drink is a crucial step in stopping drinking naturally. Many people turn to alcohol as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, or emotional pain. Others may use alcohol as a way to socialize or fit in with a certain group of people.

To address the root causes of your drinking, take some time to reflect on your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors around alcohol. Ask yourself questions like:

When do I tend to drink?

How much do I drink when I do?

What emotions am I feeling when I drink?

What triggers my cravings for alcohol?

Am I using alcohol to cope with stress or emotional pain?

Once you have a better understanding of why you drink, you can start taking steps to address those underlying issues. For example:

If you're using alcohol as a way to cope with stress or emotional pain, try finding healthier ways to manage those feelings. This could include talking to a therapist, practicing mindfulness meditation, or engaging in regular exercise.

If you tend to drink in certain social situations, try finding new activities or hobbies that don't involve alcohol. You could also try limiting your exposure to those situations until you feel more confident in your ability to resist temptation.

If you're struggling with addiction and find it difficult to quit on your own, consider seeking professional help from a healthcare provider or addiction specialist.

Remember that addressing the root causes of your drinking is an ongoing process that takes time and patience. Be kind and compassionate towards yourself as you work towards sobriety - and don't hesitate to reach out for support whenever you need it.

Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

When you stop drinking after prolonged alcohol use, you may experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and can include:

Anxiety
Depression
Irritability
Insomnia
Fatigue
Tremors or shaking
Headaches
Nausea and vomiting
Sweating

In severe cases, alcohol withdrawal can lead to delirium tremens (DTs), a severe form of withdrawal that can cause hallucinations, seizures, and even death. If you're experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Not everyone who stops drinking will experience withdrawal symptoms. However, if you do experience these symptoms, it's a sign that your body has become dependent on alcohol and needs time to adjust to functioning without it.

The duration and severity of alcohol withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on factors such as the amount and frequency of alcohol consumption, as well as individual factors such as age, sex, overall health, and genetics.

If you're planning to quit drinking and are concerned about withdrawal symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you develop a plan for quitting safely and may recommend medications or other treatments to help manage your symptoms.

Remember that quitting drinking is a journey that requires patience, commitment, and support. By understanding the potential risks of alcohol withdrawal and seeking professional help when needed, you can take steps towards a healthier future.

Lifestyle Change to Stop Drinking Alcohol

Making lifestyle changes is a crucial step in stopping drinking naturally. You need to identify the habits and behaviors that are contributing to your alcohol addiction and replace them with healthier ones. Here are some lifestyle changes you can make to help you quit drinking:

1. Get Enough Sleep

Lack of sleep can contribute to stress, anxiety, and depression, which can all trigger alcohol cravings. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night, and establish a consistent sleep routine.

2. Eat a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet can help improve your overall health and wellbeing, as well as reduce alcohol cravings. Focus on whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean protein sources, and whole grains.

3. Exercise Regularly

Exercise is an effective way to reduce stress and anxiety - two common triggers for alcohol addiction. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each day, such as brisk walking or cycling.

4. Practice Self-Care

Self-care activities such as taking a warm bath, reading a book, or practicing yoga can help you relax and manage stress without turning to alcohol.

5. Limit Your Exposure to Alcohol

Avoid situations where you may be tempted to drink excessively or surround yourself with individuals who encourage excessive drinking.

By making these lifestyle changes gradually over time, you will find it easier to quit drinking and maintain sobriety in the long run. Remember that quitting drinking is not easy but with patience, commitment and support it is possible!

Make Changes in Your Social Circle

Sometimes, the people we surround ourselves with can be a trigger for alcohol consumption. If you find that your current social circle is not supportive of your efforts to quit drinking, it may be time to make some changes.

Consider spending less time with friends who drink heavily or who encourage you to drink. Instead, seek out new social activities and groups that align with your goals of sobriety. This could include joining a sports team, taking up a new hobby, or attending sober events in your community.

Remember, it's okay to let go of relationships that are not serving you in a positive way. Surround yourself with people who support and encourage your journey towards sobriety.

Consider Joining a Support Group

Quitting alcohol on your own can be challenging, which is why joining a support group like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) can be incredibly beneficial. AA is a community of individuals who are all working towards sobriety and share their experiences, strength, and hope with each other.

In AA meetings, you will find a safe and supportive environment where you can share your struggles with alcohol addiction without fear of judgment or criticism. You will also have the opportunity to hear from others who have been in similar situations and learn from their experiences.

AA offers various types of meetings, including open meetings (where anyone can attend) and closed meetings (for those who identify as an alcoholic). You can attend as many or as few meetings as you like and participate at your own pace.

In addition to AA, there are many other support groups available for those struggling with alcohol addiction. These include SMART Recovery, Women for Sobriety, and Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS), among others. Do some research to find the group that best fits your needs and preferences.

Remember that joining a support group is just one tool in your toolbox for quitting drinking naturally. It's important to also make lifestyle changes, seek professional help if needed, and surround yourself with supportive friends and family members. With time, patience, and persistence, you can overcome alcohol addiction and lead a fulfilling life in sobriety.

Develop a Morning Routine to Set the Tone for Your Day

Starting your day off on the right foot can help you maintain sobriety and reduce alcohol cravings throughout the day. One way to do this is by developing a morning routine that sets a positive tone for your day.

Here are some tips for creating a morning routine:

Wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.

Avoid checking your phone or email first thing in the morning.

Drink a glass of water to hydrate your body after sleeping.

Engage in an activity that brings you joy, such as reading, journaling, or listening to music.

Practice mindfulness meditation or deep breathing exercises to calm your mind and reduce stress.

By establishing a consistent morning routine, you can set yourself up for success and decrease the likelihood of turning to alcohol later in the day. Remember that it takes time and practice to develop new habits, so be patient with yourself as you work towards creating a routine that works for you.

Alternative Therapies

Seeking out alternative therapies like acupuncture or hypnotherapy can be a helpful addition to traditional methods of quitting drinking. These therapies have been shown to reduce alcohol cravings and improve overall mood and well-being.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and balance. It has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine and has gained popularity in Western countries as a complementary treatment for addiction.

Hypnotherapy is a type of therapy that uses guided relaxation techniques to help individuals achieve a state of heightened awareness, or trance. In this state, individuals are more open to suggestion and can work with their therapist to address underlying issues related to alcohol addiction.

While alternative therapies may not work for everyone, they can be a valuable tool for those seeking additional support in their journey towards sobriety. Talk to your healthcare provider or addiction specialist about which therapies may be right for you.

Try Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to Change Negative Thought Patterns

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that can help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns related to drinking. CBT focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and helps individuals develop strategies for managing challenging emotions without turning to alcohol.

In CBT sessions, a therapist will work with you to identify specific thought patterns or beliefs that may be contributing to your alcohol addiction. For example, you may have negative beliefs about yourself or feel like you need alcohol to cope with stress or anxiety.

Once these negative thought patterns have been identified, your therapist will help you develop strategies for changing them. This may include techniques such as:

Challenging negative thoughts: Your therapist may encourage you to question the accuracy of your negative thoughts and look for evidence that contradicts them.

Developing coping skills: Your therapist may teach you specific skills for managing challenging emotions, such as deep breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation.

Setting goals: Your therapist may work with you to set achievable goals for reducing alcohol consumption and developing healthier habits.

CBT is often used in conjunction with other treatments for alcohol addiction, such as medication-assisted treatment (MAT) or support groups. Talk to your healthcare provider or addiction specialist about whether CBT may be right for you.

Use Positive Affirmations to Reprogram Your Thoughts and Beliefs about Alcohol

Positive affirmations are a powerful tool for changing negative thought patterns and beliefs related to alcohol addiction. By repeating positive statements to yourself on a regular basis, you can reprogram your subconscious mind and shift your mindset towards sobriety.

Here are some examples of positive affirmations you can use:

I am strong and capable of overcoming my addiction.

I choose health and happiness over alcohol.

Sobriety is the best decision I've ever made for myself.

I am in control of my thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

I am worthy of love and support on my journey towards sobriety.

To get the most out of positive affirmations, it's important to repeat them consistently, ideally every day. You can say them out loud or silently to yourself, write them down in a journal, or even create visual reminders like posters or sticky notes.

Remember that changing negative thought patterns takes time and patience. Be kind and compassionate towards yourself as you work towards a healthier relationship with alcohol.

FAQs

How do I know if I have an alcohol addiction?

If you find that you are regularly consuming more alcohol than you intend to, experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking, or struggling to cut back on your alcohol consumption despite negative consequences, these may be signs of alcohol addiction.

It's important to talk to your healthcare provider if you are concerned about your drinking habits and need help determining whether or not you have an addiction.

Can I quit drinking on my own without professional help?

While some individuals are able to quit drinking on their own, it can be challenging and may not be safe for everyone.

Withdrawal symptoms can be severe and even life-threatening in some cases. Seeking professional help from a healthcare provider or addiction specialist can provide the support and resources needed for a successful recovery.

How long does it take to quit drinking naturally?

The timeline for quitting drinking naturally can vary depending on individual factors such as the severity of the addiction, overall health, and support system. Typically, acute withdrawal symptoms last between five and seven days but cravings and other psychological symptoms may persist for several weeks or months after quitting.

Will I ever be able to drink again after quitting?

For individuals with a history of alcohol addiction, it is generally recommended that they avoid drinking altogether. Even small amounts of alcohol can trigger cravings and lead to relapse. However, this decision is ultimately up to the individual and should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider or addiction specialist.

What should I do if I experience a relapse?

Relapse is common in recovery from alcohol addiction and should not be viewed as a failure. It's important to seek support from friends, family members, or a healthcare provider if you experience a relapse.

They can help identify triggers that led to the relapse and develop strategies for preventing future relapses. Remember that recovery is a journey and setbacks are a natural part of the process.

Conclusion

Stopping drinking naturally requires a combination of strategies and a strong commitment. By setting a clear goal, finding a support system, replacing alcohol with healthy habits, avoiding triggers, and seeking professional help when needed, you can successfully quit drinking and improve your overall health and well-being. Remember, it's never too late to make a positive change in your life.