3 Ways to Tell if You're Drinking Too Much
Have you ever found yourself googling “Am I an alcoholic?” or “How much alcohol is too much?”
If so, you're not alone. The answers can be confusing—some sources say a few drinks a week are fine, while others warn of the risks. Whether you’re drinking daily or just occasionally, alcohol affects everyone differently.
At Functional Sobriety, we examine how alcohol impacts the body and identify warning signs that you might be drinking too much—or that cutting back could improve your overall health. Here are three key areas where your body may be sounding the alarm.
No 1: Your Digestion Is Off
Alcohol can seriously disrupt your gut health, leading to symptoms like bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and acid reflux. But the effects run even deeper.
Alcohol alters the gut microbiome, the balance of bacteria responsible for nutrient absorption, toxin breakdown, and even mood regulation. Long-term drinking can also weaken the gut lining, contributing to "leaky gut"—a condition that allows harmful substances to leak into the bloodstream, triggering inflammation, food sensitivities, and even autoimmune conditions.
Signs your gut may be affected by alcohol:
- Constipation, bloating, acid reflux, or irregular bowel movements (healthy is 1-3 times per day)
- Skin issues like acne, eczema, or psoriasis
- Autoimmune diseases
- Food sensitivities or reactions to new foods
- Weak immune system
No 2: Your Hormones Are Off
Alcohol wreaks havoc on hormone balance, particularly because it directly affects the liver, the body’s main site for hormone metabolism. In women, this may lead to irregular periods, fertility issues, or menopausal symptoms. For men, it can result in low testosterone, erectile dysfunction, or gynecomastia (development of male breast tissue).
Alcohol also increases cortisol (the stress hormone), which can further disrupt sex hormones, thyroid function, and blood sugar regulation.
Signs your hormones may be affected by alcohol:
- Irregular periods, PMS, or heavy menstrual cycles
- Menopausal symptoms
- Hormonal acne
- Fertility issues
No 3: Your Mood Is Off
We've all experienced "hangxiety," the anxiety that comes after a night of drinking, but ongoing mood changes could be a sign that alcohol is affecting your mental health. Alcohol disrupts neurotransmitter production, impacting how you feel and how your brain manages stress and happiness.
It also depletes essential nutrients that help regulate mood. If you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, or low motivation and are drinking more than 5 beverages a week, cutting back on alcohol could make a big difference.
Signs your mood may be affected by alcohol:
- Depressed or low mood
- Increased anxiety, especially after drinking
- Low motivation or energy
- Trouble focusing
What Should You Do?
If you're drinking more than 5 alcoholic beverages per week and experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it might be time to reduce your alcohol intake or eliminate it altogether.
The good news? Functional Sobriety can help you heal your gut, balance your hormones, and improve your mood through personalized nutrition and lifestyle strategies.
Are you looking for support to stay alcohol-free?
Learn more aboutĀ gaining support on your alcohol-free and health goals. Join our members-only community, enroll in our self-guided course, or get supplements to lower cravings and improve your energy and mood.
