There was a time when a glass of wine with dinner or a cheeky cocktail at brunch felt effortless. But if you’ve reached your 40s and started to feel a bit "off" after just one drink, you’re not imagining things. Our bodies change with age, and the way we process alcohol is no exception. July’s Alcohol Awareness Month in the UK offers a wonderful opportunity to check in with yourself, your habits, and how you’re supporting your body.

This isn’t about guilt or giving up your favourite G&T forever. It’s about awareness, kindness, and a little strategy to keep your glow strong and your body happy.

How Alcohol Affects Us Differently in Our 40s

Once we hit our 40s, everything from our metabolism to our hormone levels begins to shift. Our liver becomes a touch slower at breaking down toxins. Estrogen levels fluctuate, which can make alcohol’s effects more pronounced. And let’s not forget sleep. What used to lull us into a deep slumber might now wake us up at 3am with a dry mouth and racing thoughts.

Alcohol can also dehydrate the body, disturb your gut microbiome, and deplete essential nutrients like B vitamins and selenium. Not to mention, it can be a sneaky culprit behind that mid-afternoon slump or those restless nights.

Small Shifts That Make a Big Difference

The good news? You don’t have to go teetotal to feel better. Sometimes, it’s the small daily choices that support your long-term health.

• Hydrate with intention: Pair every alcoholic beverage with a glass of water to keep your kidneys and skin happy.

• Choose mindful moments: Swap a nightly glass of wine for a non-alcoholic spritz a few days a week.

• Eat before you sip: A balanced meal helps slow alcohol absorption and lessens blood sugar spikes.

• Prioritise rest: Good sleep is your body’s reset button. Alcohol disrupts deep sleep, so take note of your patterns.

Support from Within: Supplements That Can Help

Even with the best of intentions, alcohol can deplete your body’s nutrient stores. That’s where thoughtful supplementation comes in.

• Vitamin B-Complex: Alcohol reduces the absorption of B vitamins, which are essential for energy, brain function, and mood regulation. Birch & Wilde’s B-Complex helps replenish what alcohol depletes and supports your nervous system with grace and ease.

• Selenium: A powerful antioxidant that helps protect your liver from oxidative stress and supports your immune system. It’s a tiny trace mineral with a mighty impact.

• D-Mannose: If you’ve ever noticed alcohol irritating your bladder or triggering urinary discomfort, you’re not alone. D-Mannose can support urinary tract health gently and effectively.

These aren’t magic pills. They’re part of a beautiful support system that helps you feel vibrant and balanced, no matter what’s in your glass.

Celebrate with Grace

Alcohol Awareness Month isn’t about swearing off the things you enjoy. It’s about learning how your body evolves and giving it the tools it needs to thrive. Celebrate your 40s (and beyond) with a sense of curiosity, compassion, and the knowledge that you can support your body from the inside out.

Here’s to raising a glass to your health mindfully, joyfully, and beautifully.

Ready to support your body with thoughtful supplements? Explore our Vitamin B-Complex, Selenium, and D-Mannose to nourish yourself from within. Because wellness isn’t about restriction. It’s about intention.