Have you ever had a drink on an empty stomach and suddenly felt it hit you like a ton of bricks? That quick, warm buzz that makes you feel relaxed, only to be followed by sluggishness, brain fog, and maybe even a rough next morning?
Before we get into it I wanted to take this moment to welcome and thank the newest fascinating beings for joining us:
Welcome in and thank you for subscribing.
Most of us don’t think about what’s actually happening inside our bodies when we drink. But the truth is, alcohol affects far more than just how you feel in the moment. It changes your gut, brain, liver, metabolism, and even ups your cancer risk. And the latest research is showing that alcohol may be even more dangerous than we previously thought. I am not here to preach. I am here to let you in on this information because I care about you. I watched my mother-in-law go through a slow painful death from colon cancer, and I would not wish that upon anyone.
From gut health to brain fog, nutrient depletion to cancer risks, today’s conversation is a candid deep-dive into how alcohol impacts your entire system—even if you're just a "social" drinker. We break down what recent research is revealing about the long-term effects of alcohol (yes, even in moderation), the surprising link to early-onset colorectal cancer, and why some of us are waking up to the realization that alcohol isn’t the harmless indulgence we once thought.
We also explore better choices if you're not ready to ditch the wine glass entirely—like how to pick the healthiest options when you’re at a social event, and what to avoid when it comes to mixers, sugar, and pesticides in alcohol.
This episode gets deeply personal too—I share my own story behind the title of my book Go With Your Gut Beyond Menopause (thank you Rob) and the emotional spark that led to its transformation. Plus, an unexpected coffee shop conversation between two veterans led to a powerful affirmation that this episode needed to be created. You’ll hear about how alcohol alters your gut lining, disrupts your stomach’s pH, and depletes nutrients critical for brain health.
We talk thiamine, (so crucial) hangovers, liver damage, and what the science is now telling us about brain health and long-term cognitive decline. If you’re curious about how to feel your best, this episode offers tips on protecting your brain, supporting your liver, and uncovering the emotional patterns that might be fueling your cravings in the first place.
And for those who may be drinking to cope with trauma, stress, or anxiety—we look at how unresolved emotional wounds from childhood can shape our adult behaviors. You’ll also learn how hypnosis can help break the cycle of dependence and support your healing journey by tapping into your subconscious and restoring emotional balance.
So, if you’ve been questioning your relationship with alcohol or simply want to feel better and look younger—this episode is for you. We’re not judging, we’re empowering you with the tools, insight, and motivation to make the best decisions for your mind, body, and soul.
Question
Questions asked in this episode (I have a purple button below so we can open up the conversation);
Have you lost a loved one to cancer? How did it impact you? Did you make changes to your lifestyle because of what you experienced?
Did you know there were healthier alcohol options?
Did you know there were organic choices?
Have you already hopped on the alcohol-free bandwagon?
Did you know that there is an emotional connection to you alcohol?
Did you know hypnosis could help with wanting to quit alcohol?
Did you know hypnosis can help increase self-esteem and motivation without having to try?
Please share your thoughts, comments, answers by clicking this purple button. I would love to start a conversation with you all.
Supplements mentioned in this episode
You can order these through my online dispensary. Create a free account and save. If you need help picking out supplements please either hit reply or hit this button and send me a message. (As long as you are purchasing through my online store, I am here to help you with the best professional brand choices.)
B Vitamin Complex
Especially important for replenishing nutrients like Thiamine (B1) which is rapidly depleted by alcohol and essential for brain health and energy.
Can help prevent hangover symptoms and protect against cognitive decline.
NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)
Supports glutathione production, the body's master antioxidant.
Helps detoxify the liver and neutralize acetaldehyde, the toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism.
Selenium
Works with NAC to boost glutathione.
Supports liver health and protects against oxidative stress.
Glycine
A building block of glutathione.
Supports liver detoxification and helps the body metabolize alcohol more efficiently.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Reduces inflammation, supports brain health, and protects against alcohol-induced cognitive damage.
Probiotics
Helps rebalance gut bacteria after alcohol disrupts microbiome diversity.
Supports digestion, immunity, and mental clarity.
Electrolyte Powder
My favourite is called NEEDED
Replenishes minerals lost through dehydration caused by alcohol.
Especially important before bed after drinking to avoid a rough hangover.
Topics Discussed in the Episode:
How alcohol disrupts gut health, digestion, and nutrient absorption
The link between alcohol and liver damage, cancer, and brain fog
Better alcohol choices: Old World wines, organic spirits, hard kombucha
Emotional reasons behind drinking and how to heal
How hypnosis can help rewire patterns and promote freedom from dependence
Tips for mitigating the effects of alcohol if you do choose to drink
Why Gen Z is ditching booze and embracing mocktail culture
Studies:
A 2023 study published in the Journal of Hepatology, found that sugar-sweetened drinks—especially those mixed with alcohol—significantly increase the risk of liver cancer.
According to the American Cancer Society, even light to moderate drinking increases the risk of bowel cancer, especially in people over 40.
A recent revision of alcohol use guidelines from health experts now suggests that there is no truly "safe" amount of alcohol—even one drink a day carries risks.
Meta-analysis of 16 studies of the association of alcohol with colorectal cancer from the National Institutes of Health, found that alcohol is directly linked to early-onset colorectal cancer (CRC)—a disease that is rapidly rising in adults under 50.
The Colon Cancer Foundation warns that alcohol damages the colon lining and increases the risk of aggressive cancers, even in people who aren’t heavy drinkers.
🙏 Thank you for joining today's discussion. I’m Karen Langston, your holistic nutritionist and hypnotist. Remember, taking proactive steps toward physical and mental well-being is a journey, and seeking support is a sign of strength.
📫If this episode spoke to you, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a comment, or send me a message on Substack.
And if you love what you’re hearing, subscribe, leave a review and recommend me—it helps so much!
💡❓☎︎Have an idea or what an answer to. your question? Leave me a message on my private dedicated podcast line 656-222-0848.
🌱 Stay well, and until next time, question the norm, trust your wisdom, elegantly and unapologetically roar. And most of all… Lady,, keep being fascinating and sage with sass and grace in every day life.
~Karen
P.S. Have too Many Supplements and unsure what you are taking? Want to save some money in the long run? Want to streamline your supplements to your health and lifestyle?
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