Can Tapering Off Alcohol Reduce Withdrawal Symptoms?

Little data is available about the safety and effectiveness of alcohol tapers. In contrast,robust evidencesupports quitting alcohol while under medical supervision. Unfortunately, alcohol tapering has not been extensively studied. This means that there is little data about the best way to taper your drinking. However, some groups have publishedtapering examplesto help assist those who are trying to quit drinking. Quitting alcohol cold turkey is not recommended and can be dangerous.

• Chronic and excessive alcohol use disrupts the brain’s neurotransmitters.
• A great deal of time is spent in activities necessary to obtain alcohol, use alcohol, or recover from its effects.
• This can give your body the chance to adjust, helping you avoid the worst of withdrawal symptoms.
• Keep your refrigerator stocked with nutritious foods and drinks.
• The Monument platform can help determine what timeline will work for you based on your past drinking habits and risk of withdrawal.
• Individuals who have an alcohol use disorder may find that quitting drinking cold turkey is the best bet for them.

When you drink a lot over a long period, your brainreducesthe amount of GABA it makes. This means that if you quit drinking cold turkey, your brain will not have enough GABA.

How Long Does It Take To Taper Off Alcohol Safely?

When your https://ecosoberhouse.com/ is expecting alcohol and does not get it, it can start to react with withdrawal symptoms. Alcohol is likely the most widely used recreational substance in the world. In the United States, most people will drink alcohol at least once. Its cultural acceptance has made it a common psychoactive substance in the United States. More concerning is the prevalence of binge drinking and heavy alcohol use.

When attempting to taper off alcohol, it is recommended that an individual should substitute these stronger options for wine or beer — or at least hard liquor with a smaller proof. However, some groups have stepped in to try to bridge this gap and have published sample tapering schedules to help those trying to stop drinking. With these things in mind, you need to weigh the pros and cons of tapering your alcohol use—ideally with someone you trust—to make a fully informed decision. For example, if you typically drink five glasses of wine every day, try cutting back to four glasses for several days.

Pros and Cons of Tapering Down Alcohol Intake

how to taper off alcohol therapy can also make a major difference in your healing journey. A therapist will work with you to create a personalized plan for cutting back and provide ongoing guidance and accountability.

Not every person is the same and sometimes tapering off alcohol by cutting down slowly just doesn’t work. Withdrawal symptoms may begin within a few hours after the last drink and may last up to 48 to 72 hours. Psychological alcohol withdrawal may continue long after the physical symptoms subside.