WEIGHT LOSS PART 2 - REDUCING ALCOHOL (STARTING SMALL)

Picture from a trip to Spain about 6 years go. I was pleasantly surprised how few pictures I could find of myself with a drink in my hand.

As I continue sharing my 2026 weight-loss journey, I want to begin with something manageable. I’m not a heavy drinker, so significantly reducing alcohol is, for me, a relatively easy win — a way of starting small while still making a meaningful change.

Even moderate alcohol intake can have a bigger impact on weight loss than many people realise, particularly in midlife and when hormones and blood sugar regulation are already under pressure. From a Western medicine perspective, alcohol temporarily halts fat burning, can worsen insulin resistance, disrupt blood sugar balance and interfere with sleep — all important factors when weight loss is already more challenging due to PCOS and peri-menopause.

From a Chinese Medicine perspective, alcohol places extra strain on digestion and fluid metabolism. Over time, this can contribute to a sense of heaviness or sluggishness, making it harder for the body to regulate weight and energy, even when intake isn’t high.

For me, this isn’t about restriction or punishment. It’s about removing something that may be subtly getting in the way, especially during my busy work cycles when stress levels are higher.

I’m very aware that limiting alcohol is not equally easy for everyone. For some, it’s closely linked to stress, habit or emotional regulation. Acupuncture can be a helpful support here. Protocols such as the NADA protocol, particularly when combined with a clear intention to change, are well known for supporting people working with addictive patterns, and can also help with menopausal symptoms such as anxiety, hot flushes and sleep disturbance.

Coming up next : I’ll be looking at reducing refined sugar — another small but powerful step in supporting blood sugar balance, insulin resistance and hormonal health.

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For more information about how acupuncture can help with your weight loss journey or your health more generally please feel free to contact me on info@acupuncture-surrey.co.uk.