Why Avoiding Alcohol Matters for Lyme Disease Recovery

Dry January (or any other month for that matter) is probably good for you, but when you're navigating the rollercoaster of Lyme disease, the impact of alcohol on the body can have even more negative consequences.

For those going through the trauma of Lyme disease, it can feel like your body has been thrown into the deep end of a pool, and you're trying to learn to swim all over again. Between the fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, and everything else Lyme throws at you, it's natural to look for ways to make life feel a little more "normal." For some, that might mean enjoying a glass of wine with dinner or a beer with friends. But here's the thing: when it comes to Lyme disease, alcohol isn’t doing you any favors. Let’s talk about why, and what you can do instead to try and feel your best.

Alcohol and Your Overworked Liver

First, let’s talk about your liver. Your liver is your body's detox superhero, working overtime to process everything from toxins released by Lyme bacteria to medications and supplements you’re likely taking as part of your treatment. Adding alcohol into the mix is like handing a firefighter a flamethrower—it makes an already tough job even harder. Alcohol taxes your liver and slows down its ability to clear out the harmful byproducts of Lyme.

When your liver gets bogged down, it can lead to more inflammation in your body—and if you’ve been living with Lyme, you know inflammation is already one of your biggest enemies.

Yeast Overgrowth: Fuelling the Fire

Many Lyme disease patients struggle with candida, a type of yeast that can overgrow when your immune system is weakened or when you’re on antibiotics. Alcohol, especially sugary drinks like cocktails, provides the perfect fuel for yeast to thrive. This can lead to symptoms like bloating, brain fog, and fatigue—the very things you’re already trying to minimize.

By skipping the alcohol, you’re giving your gut a better chance to heal and reducing the risk of candida-related complications. Plus, a happy gut invariably means a happier you.

Alcohol and Inflammation: A Bad Match

Lyme disease is essentially a battle against inflammation. Joint pain, muscle aches, and brain fog are all tied to your body's inflammatory response. Unfortunately, alcohol is a pro-inflammatory substance. Even small amounts can trigger an inflammatory cascade that leaves you feeling worse than before.

Imagine you’re trying to put out a fire, and someone comes along and sprinkles gasoline on it. That’s what alcohol does to inflammation in a Lyme-compromised body. It's just not worth it.

Alcohol’s Impact on Sleep and Recovery

Recovery from Lyme disease often requires deep, restorative sleep. Your body heals and detoxifies during sleep, so anything that disrupts that process can set you back. Alcohol might make you feel drowsy at first, but it disrupts your sleep cycles, especially the deep sleep stages your body needs for healing. The result? You wake up groggy, achy, and far from refreshed.

Emotional Well-being: Keeping the Balance

Let’s not forget the emotional toll of Lyme disease. Depression and anxiety are common companions for many Lyme sufferers. While alcohol might seem like a quick way to relax or escape, it’s a temporary fix that often leaves you feeling worse. Alcohol can amplify anxiety, disrupt your mood, and even interfere with medications you might be taking for mental health support.

Instead of numbing with alcohol, try activities that genuinely lift your spirits, like connecting with a friend, taking a gentle walk in nature, or diving into a creative hobby.

Finding Joy Without Alcohol

So, what can you do when you’re at a party, out to dinner, or just looking to unwind at the end of the day? The good news is, there are plenty of alcohol-free options that feel just as indulgent. Here are a few ideas:

• Mocktails: Try sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice, a squeeze of lime, and a sprig of fresh mint. It’s refreshing, fancy, and totally alcohol-free.

• Herbal teas: Chamomile, lavender, or a spicy ginger tea can be comforting and relaxing.

• Kombucha: If your gut can tolerate it, this fizzy, fermented tea is a great alternative with a slight tangy flavor.

• Adaptogen drinks: Look for beverages with stress-busting herbs like ashwagandha or reishi to help you relax naturally.
  

The Bottom Line

Avoiding alcohol when you’re dealing with Lyme disease isn’t about deprivation; it’s about giving your body the best possible chance to heal. Think of it as one more tool in your recovery toolbox—a simple but powerful way to reduce inflammation, support your liver, and feel better overall.

And remember, it’s okay to miss the occasional glass of wine or toast at a celebration. But your health and well-being are worth so much more than that fleeting moment. By choosing what’s best for your body, you’re taking control and giving yourself the gift of true healing.

Have you tried cutting out alcohol as part of your Lyme recovery? What’s worked for you? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s support each other on this journey!