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127 Before-And-After Pics Show What Happens When You Stop Drinking
“Everything in moderation” is a pretty good rule to live by, especially where alcohol is concerned. The obvious effects of alcohol on the body are high blood pressure (hypertension), which increases the risk of a heart attack or stroke, liver damage, and increased risk of cancers.
Another not-so-noticeable effect of a drinking problem is that sipping too many Margaritas can also cause you to gain a bunch of excess pounds. There are roughly 200 calories in a pint of beer and about 230 calories in 100 grams of vodka.
When a heavy drinker gives up on alcohol abuse, the physical metamorphosis can be staggering. Take a look at these before and after pictures of individuals in alcohol recovery to see what we mean.
Some of the people in the photographs are barely recognizable compared to their former selves, and while some complemented the alcohol rehab process with exercise, the benefits of quitting drinking can't be clearer by looking at these pictures.
How Does Your Body Change in One Year Sober?
A year of sobriety can bring about positive changes in the body. If you’ve ever seen photos of alcoholics before and after quitting the vice, you’ll see a clear glow-up in their faces (and bodies). Often, they look fitter, healthier, and, most importantly, happier. However, these benefits come with their own set of problems. Stick around to learn more about the struggles of withdrawal and the eventual rewards.
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
The Beard Chronicles
RELATED:
#2
Caught Between Two Worlds
Shane Watson 9 years ago
Thanks for sharing this. By the way, I'm coming up on five years sober (11/29/16). -Shane (Silverladder) fouryearss...b5e167.jpg 
#3
Transformation Vibes Only
#4
Not Quite the Same Day
#5
From Chaos to Class
#6
Glow Up Goals
Sergio Bicerra 9 years ago
I love the fact there is someone's hand in the first pict, like suportting hi
#7
Same Shirt, Different Chapter
#8
Two Drinks, One Transformation
#9
Same Dress, New Vibes
Koen Vleminckx 9 years ago
And that's just the outside. Imagine what it did to their brain ad liver.
#10
Glow-Up Chronicles
First Comes the Hard Part…
We all love a glow-up story, especially when it involves fighting inner demons. In this post, the demon at hand is alcohol, a challenge many people face. And the hardest part of fighting them? The after-effects of quitting. Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can vary from person to person. The National Library of Medicine (NIH) has published a study describing some of the more common ones.
- Irritability
- Tremors
- Anxiety
In rare cases, more severe symptoms appear. In these situations, a person can experience:
- Delirium tremors (DT) (can last 3 to 4 days)
- Hallucinosis (can last 1 to 2 days)
- Seizures (can last 1 to 2 days)
In all cases, the first 72 hours will be the hardest. As the body rids itself of alcohol, an increasing number of withdrawal symptoms will manifest. However, if a person can endure this initial period, the benefits will be visible quite quickly.
#11
From Serious to Smiling
#12
Glow Up Goals
#13
Before and After Wins
#14
Glow Up Vibes
#15
Same Shirt, New Game
#16
Glow-Up Chronicles
#17
Spot The Upgrade
#18
Glow Up Goals
Final score:
138points
Tonya Raleigh (Submission author) 9 years ago
Thank you! It literally saved his life and allowed both of us to have a life worth living.
#19
From Casual To Confident
#20
Glow Up Guaranteed
…Better Health Comes Second.
After a year of abstinence, the developed symptoms of alcoholism before and after quitting get replaced by healthy benefits. Behavioral Health of the Palm Beaches, also known as the Center for Alcohol & Drug Studies, discussed some benefits of long-term sobriety.
- Improved skin. A sober face often appears more youthful, bright, and glowy.
- Mental clarity. Like other drugs, alcohol plays with the chemicals within your body. When you quit drinking, the levels of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin normalize, leading to improved cognitive function, emotional stability, and overall mental well-being.
- Weight change. The “Beer belly” phenomenon is real. Thank the high-calorie content in alcoholic beverages. By cutting out alcohol, you can significantly reduce your calorie intake.
- Better sleep. Like nicotine, alcohol can induce insomnia.
While we’ve listed only four, there are many more benefits to enjoy in sobriety. And judging from the faces of now-sober people, it’s worth the price.
#21
From Lumberjack To Lounge Look
Final score:
95points
#24
Glow-Up Goals
Final score:
84points
#25
Glow Up Goals
#26
Glow-Up Vibes Only
#27
Couples That Slay Together
#28
Cheers And Greetings
#29
Candid vs. Curated Glow-Up
#30
Morning vs. Night Mood Shift
Early Intervention Can Help
Early intervention can make all the difference. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, early prevention seeks to inform individuals about the harm, symptoms of withdrawal and strategies for reducing alcohol use. As long as the person knows there is still hope for recovery, an intervention will usually lead to positive outcomes.
Since facing a problem head-on can be daunting, that extra push or support can go a long way. There are support groups that try to help individuals drop the vice through group sessions and therapy. While we might know the more famous Alcoholics Anonymous, there are more alcohol addiction support groups a person can choose from.
#31
Transformation in Progress
Final score:
65points
#32
Flip The Script
Final score:
63points
Zugga aka Pia Isabell 9 years ago
Look really young .. all you need is a smile on that healty new face :0)
#33
Glow Up Vibes
Final score:
62points
#35
From Ties To Tees
Final score:
59points
Rosemary Walsh 9 years ago
My father FINALLY became sober. I will always wish he had done it when I was a young girl.
#36
From Hospital Gown to Waterfall Crown
Final score:
47points
Caroline Hoxter 9 years ago
Good for you! On the left you are in a hospital bed. On the right you are fit and healthy. You should be very proud!! You rock, keep it up.
#38
From Casual To Corporate
Final score:
42points
#40
From Couch to Course
Final score:
40points
#41
Glow Up Vibes
Final score:
40points
#42
Glow-Up Chronicles
Final score:
39points
#43
Glow Up Goals
Final score:
39points
#44
Glow Up Goals
Final score:
38points
#45
Sunshine And Shade
Final score:
35points
Michael Southern 9 years ago
I'm thinking the photo on the left is the after photo, and the one on the right is the before photo! Just possibly...
#46
Tattooed and Thriving
Final score:
35points
Christina Brault 9 years ago
You're so happy and making so many things happen! So stoked for you girl!
#47
From Couch Potato to Contour King
Final score:
34points
#48
From Furry Friends to Game Day Vibes
Final score:
28points
#49
Glow Up Vibes
Final score:
27points
#50
Glow-Up Level Unlocked
Final score:
25points
#51
Glow Up Goals
Final score:
23points
#52
Progress You Can See
Final score:
21points
#53
Flipside Fitness Stories
Final score:
21points
#54
Unexpected Transformations
Final score:
20points
Katelynn Tirjan 9 years ago
I think the 1st pic is her current pic. It's the same as her profile pic.
#56
Mud, Sweat, And Smiles
Final score:
19points
#58
Wave Chaser vs. Trailblazer
Final score:
18points
#59
Quiet Confidence Unfiltered
Final score:
17points
#60
Retro Shades, Modern Vibes
Final score:
15points
Michelle Turner 9 years ago
I dont have a picture but I am hitting my 25th year! Bravo Sister!!
#62
From Rocker to River Rat
Final score:
14points
#63
Glow-Up Goals
Final score:
13points
#65
Legends Wear Many Colors
Final score:
12points
#66
Two Sides of Chill
Final score:
11points
#67
From Wild Nights to Filtered Days
Final score:
11points
Jessica Hardy 9 years ago
I know you! How cool you made it on Bored Panda. You look awesome and so healthy!
#68
Beard to Mustache Switch-Up
Final score:
11points
#70
Sweet Victory Moments
Final score:
10points
#71
Beard Game Level Up
Final score:
10points
#72
Hat Game Strong
Final score:
10points
#78
Glow Up Chronicles
Final score:
7points
#79
Glow Up Goals
Final score:
7points
#82
Glow Up Marathon
Final score:
6points
#83
Ready for the Ride
Final score:
6points
#85
Subtle Shades of Bold
Final score:
5points
#89
Glow Up Goals
Final score:
5points
#93
Glow Up Alert
Final score:
4points
#94
Silent Treatment Chronicles
Final score:
3points
#97
Glow Up Goals
Final score:
3points
#99
From Couch To Contour
Final score:
3points
#104
Glow Up Goals
Final score:
2points
#109
Transformation Vibes
Final score:
1point
#110
Classic With A Twist
Final score:
0points
#117
Before and After Reality Check
Final score:
0points
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What do you think ?
iblowsheep 9 years ago
okay how about renaming this as "What happens when you reduce your caloric intake and/or get more exercise". i know plenty of skinny drunks.
Nora Elisabeth 9 years ago
Guys, WHY on earth are you focusing on their weight??? It is so not about about that. It is about their health. look at their skin, eyes, their much healthier look. In all of these before and after pictures all I see are happier, healthier people, who have more life energy and look actually like they enjoy life. My dad is VERY skinny drunk... only one week of not drinking makes a HUGE difference. He gains weight, he looks much younger, his eyes radiate happiness, his mind is sharper. He simply looks human again. So get over your petty fat-non fat views, because weight is not the point here whatsoever.
Arjan 9 years ago
Looks like the men learn to shave after getting sober and they all of them lose weight. The photo quality also seems to get a lot better :p
Bobby Fasulo 9 years ago
This guy is my friend and I've personally watched the miracle of sobriety transform him for the better, both spiritually and physically.
Load More Replies...
Daniel Law 9 years ago
I've been a drinker and I've been sober. I saw this type of transformation in a friend after he got stopped for a DUI and quit. For myself, it didn't happen. I stopped drinking and didn't look any different but more important, I didn't FEEL any better. I didn't feel any difference. 'Everything in moderation' is a good rule to live by. But there is an innate need in humans to seek a higher state. Alcohol or drugs give a taste. It's my belief that we enter that state when we die.
Corinne Foley 9 years ago
Yes getting sober is mostly transformative when you are an alcoholic otherwise there would obviously be not much difference. Or there are other problems to be taken care of or unrelated issues. Clearly if you are counting the days of sobriety you got an issue. Anyone who sobers up from a drinking problem is likely to look much healthier because they are much healthier.
Load More Replies...
Paul Day II 9 years ago
Um...I'm 25yrs sober and I've gotten fatter. Sobriety can take off pounds but it's not a weight loss or prettification plan.
Julie Julie 9 years ago
All those people look so much healthier and happier and most important so much more confident! Their strength and success is inspiring. Congrats on taking the steps towards a better you!
Kara Blue 9 years ago
<3 there are comments here that are pretty defensive, but also true. Like " I know skinny drunks..." but in my own experience, if I drink, I miss the gym for 3+ days. AND I know that alcohol slows/prevents/drains vitamin C and folic acid (muscles like folic acid to become more flexible from what I understand). SO, I don't think this is a pushy article to stop drinking, it is just saying that not drinking has been a factor to these people getting healthier.
Estefania Bayona 9 years ago
Everyone looks younger after they stopped drinking. I hope this serves as an inspiration for those who are still struggling.
Karen Sheline 9 years ago
Many looked less flushed, most looked less puffy and almost all looked more connected.
Rich Willson 9 years ago
I wish I had photos of before I got sober and the year after, the improvement was obvious; but now at 16 year clean I am more focused on age
Bobby Fasulo 9 years ago
This guy is my friend and I've personally watched the miracle of his physical and spiritual transformation through sobriety.
Ria Poppins 8 years ago
Amazing love how these people have the "light" in their eyes after sobriety xxx
Mike Duncan 9 years ago
Funny how your facial hair in these either disappears totally or really trims its self up after u stop drinking. Good job all of u still, that's a hard life to live.
Danish Susanne 3 years ago
Some comments are about the persons loosing weight, but there are a lot of calories in alkohol, so it is not surprising, but what surprised me was how much more glad they look in the after photos.
Glittery Panda 3 years ago
Everybody’s eyes look so much more alive, and even if they aren’t smiling they look so happy and content. Good for you!!! 💕💕
Jennifer Rogers 4 years ago
it's all in the eyes and skin. The skin plumps up quite a lot when sober and you look WAY better.
Robert Zverina 8 years ago
slimmer but so what? still getting older... self-satisfied smirk is unsatisfactory substitute for seasoned soul
Louise Bellotti 8 years ago
Interesting ....#7 must have bought s tshirt exactly the same in a smaller size
Charlotte Wolfe 9 years ago
It appears that the before pics are blurred and the after ones are sharper and somewhat filtered. But congrats to all
Lucius Frick 9 years ago
I gave up drinking like two years ago, but I never think so much about how much time has passed since. So I'm confused if someone says 1175 days sober or 3.85 years sober. It appears to me as if they still struggle a lot with this.
Aiva Sirenko 9 years ago
What did they stop drinking? Food? I dont drink for 12 years now, but nope, still not skinny.... I guess they used the spare drinking time to exercise.
Aiva Sirenko 9 years ago
What did they stop drinking? Food? Yeah, they probably started exercising with that plenty of free time. Well, I dont drink for about 12 years now, but nope, still not skinny.
Amanda Stephenson 9 years ago
This has been the most touching post I've seen. I have/am struggling with alcohol I did 4 months sober and lost 40 lbs. I relapsed and it took a tear but I gained every pound back. This helps me see what was and how easy it can be to get back to being healthy if I give up alcohol.
Ian Langille 9 years ago
You don't have to quit drinking. Just don't drink All HE TIME.Sjouldbt have to explain
Jeremy Decarli 9 years ago
As alcoholics we can't stop like normal people.. Trust me we have all tried. Once we get that first one we want more, and more, and more. I used to tell myself just one or just two and 9 hours later still be at the bar even after walking out. The alcoholic mind can not stop. It is a disease and our only defense is to not take the first sip.
Load More Replies...
.gas. 9 years ago
Is there a significance to wearing the same thing in the "after" photo? I'm not trying to be funny.
Alida Saxon 9 years ago
Just makes it easier to see the difference, and kills any comments of "Oh it's just better clothes/lighting/etc.
Load More Replies...
Benski Trenkins 9 years ago
I never stop drinking! You need to stay hydrated! Oww wait... you mean alcohol?
Haven Powell 9 years ago
Ya sure their beards fell right off and they had to get glasses and look ten years younger
Danielius Eidiejus 9 years ago
That's one bad post, BoredPanda :) Read the comments if you don't understand why.
紫茵 陈 9 years ago
I’m Kate from Sunny Glassware Co., Ltd., we are a one of leading glassware suppliers of glass jar, glass dish,glass oil bottle,shot glass cup, vase, candle holder, stemware,ashtray,tabkeware,driking glass,etc.in China. Welcome to contact me, if you need it. Best Regards Kate Chen | Sales Shenzhen Sunny Glassware Co., Ltd. Skype: sunnyglassware033 Mobile: + 86 13710479011 E-mail: sales35@sunnyglassware.com Tel: + 86 755 25643415 / 25643419 / 25643426 ext：604 Fax: +86 755 25431456 Web: www.sunnyglassware.com www.okcandle.com www.globalsources.com/sunnyga.co Company video https://youtu.be/wYSXWY6DArA Address: 5/F,No.4 Buxin Business Building, No. 188 Renxin Road, Buxin, Luohu District, Shenzhen, China 518019
Yugan Talovich 9 years ago
Trying to slip in free ads is disgraceful, Kate, diou Zhungguoren di lian, qing bu yao zai gao.
Load More Replies... iblowsheep 9 years ago
okay how about renaming this as "What happens when you reduce your caloric intake and/or get more exercise". i know plenty of skinny drunks.
Nora Elisabeth 9 years ago
Guys, WHY on earth are you focusing on their weight??? It is so not about about that. It is about their health. look at their skin, eyes, their much healthier look. In all of these before and after pictures all I see are happier, healthier people, who have more life energy and look actually like they enjoy life. My dad is VERY skinny drunk... only one week of not drinking makes a HUGE difference. He gains weight, he looks much younger, his eyes radiate happiness, his mind is sharper. He simply looks human again. So get over your petty fat-non fat views, because weight is not the point here whatsoever.
Arjan 9 years ago
Looks like the men learn to shave after getting sober and they all of them lose weight. The photo quality also seems to get a lot better :p
Bobby Fasulo 9 years ago
This guy is my friend and I've personally watched the miracle of sobriety transform him for the better, both spiritually and physically.
Load More Replies... Daniel Law 9 years ago
I've been a drinker and I've been sober. I saw this type of transformation in a friend after he got stopped for a DUI and quit. For myself, it didn't happen. I stopped drinking and didn't look any different but more important, I didn't FEEL any better. I didn't feel any difference. 'Everything in moderation' is a good rule to live by. But there is an innate need in humans to seek a higher state. Alcohol or drugs give a taste. It's my belief that we enter that state when we die.
Corinne Foley 9 years ago
Yes getting sober is mostly transformative when you are an alcoholic otherwise there would obviously be not much difference. Or there are other problems to be taken care of or unrelated issues. Clearly if you are counting the days of sobriety you got an issue. Anyone who sobers up from a drinking problem is likely to look much healthier because they are much healthier.
Load More Replies... Paul Day II 9 years ago
Um...I'm 25yrs sober and I've gotten fatter. Sobriety can take off pounds but it's not a weight loss or prettification plan.
Julie Julie 9 years ago
All those people look so much healthier and happier and most important so much more confident! Their strength and success is inspiring. Congrats on taking the steps towards a better you!
Kara Blue 9 years ago
<3 there are comments here that are pretty defensive, but also true. Like " I know skinny drunks..." but in my own experience, if I drink, I miss the gym for 3+ days. AND I know that alcohol slows/prevents/drains vitamin C and folic acid (muscles like folic acid to become more flexible from what I understand). SO, I don't think this is a pushy article to stop drinking, it is just saying that not drinking has been a factor to these people getting healthier.
Estefania Bayona 9 years ago
Everyone looks younger after they stopped drinking. I hope this serves as an inspiration for those who are still struggling.
Karen Sheline 9 years ago
Many looked less flushed, most looked less puffy and almost all looked more connected.
Rich Willson 9 years ago
I wish I had photos of before I got sober and the year after, the improvement was obvious; but now at 16 year clean I am more focused on age
Bobby Fasulo 9 years ago
This guy is my friend and I've personally watched the miracle of his physical and spiritual transformation through sobriety.
Ria Poppins 8 years ago
Amazing love how these people have the "light" in their eyes after sobriety xxx
Mike Duncan 9 years ago
Funny how your facial hair in these either disappears totally or really trims its self up after u stop drinking. Good job all of u still, that's a hard life to live.
Danish Susanne 3 years ago
Some comments are about the persons loosing weight, but there are a lot of calories in alkohol, so it is not surprising, but what surprised me was how much more glad they look in the after photos.
Glittery Panda 3 years ago
Everybody’s eyes look so much more alive, and even if they aren’t smiling they look so happy and content. Good for you!!! 💕💕
Jennifer Rogers 4 years ago
it's all in the eyes and skin. The skin plumps up quite a lot when sober and you look WAY better.
Robert Zverina 8 years ago
slimmer but so what? still getting older... self-satisfied smirk is unsatisfactory substitute for seasoned soul
Louise Bellotti 8 years ago
Interesting ....#7 must have bought s tshirt exactly the same in a smaller size
Charlotte Wolfe 9 years ago
It appears that the before pics are blurred and the after ones are sharper and somewhat filtered. But congrats to all
Lucius Frick 9 years ago
I gave up drinking like two years ago, but I never think so much about how much time has passed since. So I'm confused if someone says 1175 days sober or 3.85 years sober. It appears to me as if they still struggle a lot with this.
Aiva Sirenko 9 years ago
What did they stop drinking? Food? I dont drink for 12 years now, but nope, still not skinny.... I guess they used the spare drinking time to exercise.
Aiva Sirenko 9 years ago
What did they stop drinking? Food? Yeah, they probably started exercising with that plenty of free time. Well, I dont drink for about 12 years now, but nope, still not skinny.
Amanda Stephenson 9 years ago
This has been the most touching post I've seen. I have/am struggling with alcohol I did 4 months sober and lost 40 lbs. I relapsed and it took a tear but I gained every pound back. This helps me see what was and how easy it can be to get back to being healthy if I give up alcohol.
Ian Langille 9 years ago
You don't have to quit drinking. Just don't drink All HE TIME.Sjouldbt have to explain
Jeremy Decarli 9 years ago
As alcoholics we can't stop like normal people.. Trust me we have all tried. Once we get that first one we want more, and more, and more. I used to tell myself just one or just two and 9 hours later still be at the bar even after walking out. The alcoholic mind can not stop. It is a disease and our only defense is to not take the first sip.
Load More Replies... .gas. 9 years ago
Is there a significance to wearing the same thing in the "after" photo? I'm not trying to be funny.
Alida Saxon 9 years ago
Just makes it easier to see the difference, and kills any comments of "Oh it's just better clothes/lighting/etc.
Load More Replies... Benski Trenkins 9 years ago
I never stop drinking! You need to stay hydrated! Oww wait... you mean alcohol?
Haven Powell 9 years ago
Ya sure their beards fell right off and they had to get glasses and look ten years younger
Danielius Eidiejus 9 years ago
That's one bad post, BoredPanda :) Read the comments if you don't understand why.
紫茵 陈 9 years ago
I’m Kate from Sunny Glassware Co., Ltd., we are a one of leading glassware suppliers of glass jar, glass dish,glass oil bottle,shot glass cup, vase, candle holder, stemware,ashtray,tabkeware,driking glass,etc.in China. Welcome to contact me, if you need it. Best Regards Kate Chen | Sales Shenzhen Sunny Glassware Co., Ltd. Skype: sunnyglassware033 Mobile: + 86 13710479011 E-mail: sales35@sunnyglassware.com Tel: + 86 755 25643415 / 25643419 / 25643426 ext：604 Fax: +86 755 25431456 Web: www.sunnyglassware.com www.okcandle.com www.globalsources.com/sunnyga.co Company video https://youtu.be/wYSXWY6DArA Address: 5/F,No.4 Buxin Business Building, No. 188 Renxin Road, Buxin, Luohu District, Shenzhen, China 518019
Yugan Talovich 9 years ago
Trying to slip in free ads is disgraceful, Kate, diou Zhungguoren di lian, qing bu yao zai gao.
Load More Replies... You May Like 50 Times People Posted Incredibly Wholesome Before & After Pictures Online 155 Awesome Before And After Photos Of Men Who Underwent Full-On Makeovers 49 Fascinating Photos Revealing What The World’s Capitals Looked Like Way Before Modern Times
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