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Original poster

In mid 40s it is getting harder and harder to enjoy alcohol

117 replies

Elizo · 24/08/2024 16:03

I've always enjoyed a drink, not too much, but a nice glass of wine or beer or two, I also like pubs. It is getting to the point where I can virtually feel the hangover coming as I drink the drink. More than 1 drink is too many. Annoying that this pleasure is being taken! Has anyone else experienced this? I read that at mid 40s the body becomes much less able to absorb alcohol...

YANBU - same for me
YABU - I can still drink fine

OP posts:
cheezncrackers · 24/08/2024 16:21

Yeah, I've always loved a drink, but in my 40s I realised that the way I feel afterwards usually isn't worth it. I can manage a couple of glasses of wine or vodka/tonics, but any more than that usually makes me feel awful, although occasionally I can get away with it. My reaction to alcohol has changed though - I just can't tolerate it the same way. It's one more shit thing about aging!

Disturbia81 · 24/08/2024 16:20

I had a rare blowout recently and it took me a week to feel normal again!
If I'm just having a few drinks then I've started having a pint of water inbetween, it definitely helps.

loropianalover · 24/08/2024 16:19

I’m 28 and can’t handle it! One or two drinks and I feel like all hydration has been sucked out of me and I’m shrivelling into a prune. 2 days until I’m right again.

I used to love big nights out but just can’t anymore.

Original poster
Elizo · 24/08/2024 16:19

HoxtHun · 24/08/2024 16:16

You need to switch to organic, or preferably biodynamic wine. Fewer (to almost zero) of the additives that cause the worst effects from middle age.

Much more expensive but it can be a new adventure. I like wine far too much to give it up!

I do love a glass of wine so not keen to call it quits. Where do you get biodynamic wine from??

OP posts:
StolenChanel · 24/08/2024 16:19

YANBU. It started as soon as the big 30 hit for me. I just don’t drink anymore - it’s literally not worth the headache.

stayathomer · 24/08/2024 16:18

Right there too, got ridiculously drunk last year on theee wines- like teenage never had a drink before drunk, hangover for two days. Decided as opposed to giving up I’d try to get back used to drinking but one drink effects me the following day so no- think I’m done!!!!

Vettrianofan · 24/08/2024 16:18

I like a shandy at the weekend.

greengreyblue · 24/08/2024 16:17

I’m 53. Still enjoy a few weekend drinks. But, if it’s a big night(not often) I don’t bounce back the next day. My DC of 23 and 20 look amazing the morning after.

HoxtHun · 24/08/2024 16:16

You need to switch to organic, or preferably biodynamic wine. Fewer (to almost zero) of the additives that cause the worst effects from middle age.

Much more expensive but it can be a new adventure. I like wine far too much to give it up!

PerkyMintDeer · 24/08/2024 16:15

I genuinely can't remember the last alcoholic drink I had...must have been in my late 30s. Thought I'd celebrate with something boozy for my 40th but in the end thought..."nah, I actually want to enjoy myself...and it would only ruin things." Just not even remotely worth it anymore. Don't miss it at all.

We've got lots of non-alcoholic meet ups in our area now, doing non-alcohol related activities together in the evening...full of women over 35...evening walks, ceramic painting. soundbaths etc, it's fab. Some recovering alcoholics attend but it's mainly people that were just sick of alcohol making them feel crap.

ihatethecold · 24/08/2024 16:15

I just drink Kombucha or ginger ale now when others are having a glass of something.

LiterallyOnFire · 24/08/2024 16:14

I gave up on it before I even hit 40. The hangovers were unbearable.

Mishmashs · 24/08/2024 16:14

Yes! I’ve noticed this this year in particular, approaching 43. I would usually have a glass of wine on a Friday or Saturday night but if we have friends over and have say two followed by a post dinner malt whisky or something like that, I feel awful the next day! I assumed I had just become a lightweight but maybe there is something in the age thing?

GrandHighPoohbah · 24/08/2024 16:12

I barely ever drink these days because it gives me a headache very quickly. I like a glass of prosecco at a celebration but that's about it.

ComeOnThenFanny · 24/08/2024 16:12

Yep, I'm 54 now, and haven't drunk alcohol other than the very odd occasion for q good few years now. It's just not worth it!

NerrSnerr · 24/08/2024 16:09

I stopped drinking last year for this reason. Luckily I still enjoy pubs and will drink non alcoholic beer.

Mintypig · 24/08/2024 16:04

Exactly the same for me. Is now stop after one as I get a headache and feel awful otherwise. Only started happening when I turned 40 , so must be hormone thing.