Podcast Episode #146: “The Impact of Alcohol on Women in Midlife” with Krysty Krywko

To drink or not to drink … that’s the question. Well, it turns out that more and more women in midlife are answering “yes” to that question. In fact, binge-drinking – a drinking behavior we have long associated with young frat boys – is on the rise among women in midlife.

As a health and fitness coach who works with many women in midlife, I see firsthand how many in this population are busting their middle-aged asses to do all the things to stay healthy – lifting heavy weights, cranking out intervals, studying food labels, buying organic, booking spa treatments, paying a small fortune on anti-aging supplements and procedures, and actively pursuing personal development.

And yet … their relationship to their nightly glasses of wine and its impact on their physical and mental health remains unexplored.

In the week’s podcast episode, I chat with Krysty Krywko, a sobriety coach, educator, writer, mixed media creator, and the founder of Purple Dog Sober, and we dive into a critical topic that resonates with many midlife women—the impact of alcohol on their health and well-being.

In our conversation, we explore the alarming rise in binge drinking among midlife women, the societal pressures that contribute to these behaviors, the profound detrimental effects of alcohol on mental and physical health, and the unfortunate cultural normalization of daily or near-daily drinking.

We both share our own deeply personal stories of sobriety, how we learned to choose healthier coping strategies, the importance of informed choices regarding alcohol consumption, and how to recognize when alcohol is no longer serving a positive role in one’s life.

This conversation is essential listening for anyone reassessing their relationship with alcohol, looking for support on their sobriety journey, or interested in understanding the societal pressures leading to these behaviors. Tune in for a compassionate, judgment-free, and insightful discussion about making informed, healthier choices.

Grab a comfy seat, listen in, and let’s start the conversation!

• Women in midlife are increasingly turning to alcohol and binge drinking as a coping mechanism.
• Cultural narratives often promote alcohol as a necessary part of adult life.
• Many women are unaware of the true effects of alcohol on their health.
• Low to moderate alcohol consumption can disrupt sleep and cognitive function.
• Women metabolize alcohol differently than men, leading to greater health risks.
• Sobriety can lead to improved mental and physical health outcomes.
• Making informed choices about alcohol is crucial for overall well-being. 
• You get to decide when enough is enough.
• Your alcohol doesn’t need to have hit a “problematic” threshold for it to be a problem.
• If you’re Googling how much is too much to drink, that’s a sign.

Get more info on our podcast here and be sure to subscribe so that you never miss an episode!

What topics would you like to see us cover in upcoming episodes? —Alison

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