kmcca5 Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 Just the other month my best pal found out he has bladder cancer. Thankfully it’s in the early stages and there are treatments so with a fair wind all should be well. He has though, been recommended a change of diet and wait for it, no alcohol. As a sign of solidarity I have decided as of January the 1st to give up booze for 12 months and after that see what happens. I am by no means an alcoholic but I am extremely fond of my beer, ale, rum, wine so it will be quite a challenge. With the Hangover thread on here it got me to thinking what would make you give up booze Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
derekfaejapan Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 Good on ye, nice act of solidarity with your pal How old is your pal? The longest I've managed is about 6 weeks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ParisInAKilt Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 (edited) I do enjoy beer, especially the social side of it but would drop it an instant if my health depended on it. Guess you would just adapt. Edited November 30, 2015 by ParisInAKilt Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
kmcca5 Posted November 30, 2015 Author Share Posted November 30, 2015 Good on ye, nice act of solidarity with your pal How old is your pal? The longest I've managed is about 6 weeks. A year older than me, 36. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Scunnered Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 Tremendous gesture sir . I gave it up for health reasons but nowhere near as serious as your pals. I'd be lying if I said I missed it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
neilser Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 I was thinking of posting something on the hangover thread suggesting that people would benefit from not drinking rather than treating the symptoms of overindulging but didn't want to come across as preachy... I've been off the drink for 21 months - I had to shift the weight that I'd gradually put on and given that alcohol was a big factor in the weight gain I saw no point in making it more difficult for myself. Stopping drinking helped in the weight loss and also generally helped me feel better. I slept better, I ate better and I had more energy. After I got to my target weight I found that I'd still rather not drink than have to start the whole cycle again. This is from someone who liked nothing better than organising trips to Munich for Oktoberfest... I'm far from saying that I've given up drink for good, but I don't know what would make me want to start again. I do know that if I go back to having a drink it'll be very infrequently. After a while (for most people anyway I suspect) you realise it's just a habit and you just need to form a habit of declining the opportunity of a drink. It can be a bit tricky at social events but once people remember it shouldn't become an issue and it doesn't mean that you shouldn't leave the house to catch up with your pals in the pub. Just the other month my best pal found out he has bladder cancer. Thankfully it’s in the early stages and there are treatments so with a fair wind all should be well. He has though, been recommended a change of diet and wait for it, no alcohol. As a sign of solidarity I have decided as of January the 1st to give up booze for 12 months and after that see what happens. I am by no means an alcoholic but I am extremely fond of my beer, ale, rum, wine so it will be quite a challenge. With the Hangover thread on here it got me to thinking what would make you give up booze Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
kmcca5 Posted November 30, 2015 Author Share Posted November 30, 2015 I was thinking of posting something on the hangover thread suggesting that people would benefit from not drinking rather than treating the symptoms of overindulging but didn't want to come across as preachy... I've been off the drink for 21 months - I had to shift the weight that I'd gradually put on and given that alcohol was a big factor in the weight gain I saw no point in making it more difficult for myself. Stopping drinking helped in the weight loss and also generally helped me feel better. I slept better, I ate better and I had more energy. After I got to my target weight I found that I'd still rather not drink than have to start the whole cycle again. This is from someone who liked nothing better than organising trips to Munich for Oktoberfest... I'm far from saying that I've given up drink for good, but I don't know what would make me want to start again. I do know that if I go back to having a drink it'll be very infrequently. After a while (for most people anyway I suspect) you realise it's just a habit and you just need to form a habit of declining the opportunity of a drink. It can be a bit tricky at social events but once people remember it shouldn't become an issue and it doesn't mean that you shouldn't leave the house to catch up with your pals in the pub. Sounds like the results are worth it and I am hoping to shed a few pounds and a bi product. I find that when I drink i eat crap and when I am hung over I eat crap so hoping the no booze will help with that n'all. How much weight did you shift if you don't mind me asking? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
neilser Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 (edited) I went from about 17 stone 10 down to 14 stone 10 in about 3 months. Have put a few pounds on since so I'm aiming to get closer to 15 than 16 stone again over the next few months. Alcohol is a major factor in people eating crap food and drinking sugar laden non-alcoholic drinks - just see some of the morning after stories on the hangover thread - and basically feeling lethargic. The best bit of advice I'd give if you want to lose weight is to cut way down on carbohydrates ( sugar in all its guises whether added artificially or in potatoes, rice, bread, pasta etc) and use an app like myfitnesspal to track calories. Do some exercise (walking or running) and some weights and the weight will fall off you. Exercise also gives you an exhilaration that alcohol can't get anywhere near. Edited November 30, 2015 by neilser Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Flora MaDonald Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 Just the other month my best pal found out he has bladder cancer. Thankfully it’s in the early stages and there are treatments so with a fair wind all should be well. He has though, been recommended a change of diet and wait for it, no alcohol. As a sign of solidarity I have decided as of January the 1st to give up booze for 12 months and after that see what happens. I am by no means an alcoholic but I am extremely fond of my beer, ale, rum, wine so it will be quite a challenge. With the Hangover thread on here it got me to thinking what would make you give up booze What a fantastic gesture, Kmcca5 - a true mate if ever there was. Selfish bastards like me, who were too fond of it, have a cheek to greet about it when you hear stories like your mate's. I wish him all the very best. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
No Scotland No Party Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 Tremendous gesture sir . I gave it up for health reasons but nowhere near as serious as your pals. I'd be lying if I said I missed it. I've thought about given it up a few times but given most social situations I'm in involve people drinking then I do worry that I'd end up a bit of a recluse. Really hate being around drunk people when not drinking. Are your friends drinkers, and if so, how do you find it? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
No Scotland No Party Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 Just to add, well done and good luck to the op, really nice gesture and I'm sure he will really appreciate it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
macy37 Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 Brilliant for you and all the best with it. I just don't know if I could do it unless it was for my health. That said yesterday I was hungover, nothing too bad like spewing but I got into the car at 2pm and really thought I was not in control. Now, I am 110% sure I was legal to drive but my senses were shot, even giving the woman in the shop the correct money was task. I also felt a bit down yesterday and the slightest thing annoyed me. Bed time I was wide awake and my body just felt like crap after eating a lot of dirty food all day in an effort to satisfy my raging appetite! Even today my skin feels nasty and my guts feel bloated and the crap that dropped out this morning was utterly barbaric. It does get me thinking is it worth it but I really do enjoy getting pished though! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Parklife Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 I was thinking of posting something on the hangover thread suggesting that people would benefit from not drinking rather than treating the symptoms of overindulging but didn't want to come across as preachy... I've been off the drink for 21 months - I had to shift the weight that I'd gradually put on and given that alcohol was a big factor in the weight gain I saw no point in making it more difficult for myself. Stopping drinking helped in the weight loss and also generally helped me feel better. I slept better, I ate better and I had more energy. After I got to my target weight I found that I'd still rather not drink than have to start the whole cycle again. This is from someone who liked nothing better than organising trips to Munich for Oktoberfest... I'm far from saying that I've given up drink for good, but I don't know what would make me want to start again. I do know that if I go back to having a drink it'll be very infrequently. After a while (for most people anyway I suspect) you realise it's just a habit and you just need to form a habit of declining the opportunity of a drink. It can be a bit tricky at social events but once people remember it shouldn't become an issue and it doesn't mean that you shouldn't leave the house to catch up with your pals in the pub. There's no need to be so absolute about it IMO. It's possible to have a few beers most weekends and still be in good shape and healthy. Well done on giving up but having a few beers with my mates now and again, or a few beers when out for dinner with the bird is very enjoyable to me. It's possible to combine this with a good exercise regime and healthy diet. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Marky Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 I've thought about given it up a few times but given most social situations I'm in involve people drinking then I do worry that I'd end up a bit of a recluse. Really hate being around drunk people when not drinking. Are your friends drinkers, and if so, how do you find it? I genuinely reckon this would be my biggest issue. I'm pretty sure I could do without drink physically and mentally, but I love my social life and like NSNP I cannot stand pished people when I'm sober. In the past, any time I've tried to give up for a period of time (like the month of January for example) I have to just put my social life on hold for that period. I certainly don't want to have to do that permanently. The thought of no more hangovers is definitely appealing tho. In any case, an outstanding gesture Mr. Kmcca5. Hope you achieve your goal as well as your pal making a full recovery. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ParisInAKilt Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 Probably easier if you find other social things to do that don't involve booze and a lot of time in pubs. Easier said than done in Scotland I found, might sound daft but it's easier abroad Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
killiefaetheferry Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 Well done that man. Lost my Dad to bladder cancer, but he was in his 70's and there are much better treatments these days. Good luck to your mate. I am only on booze twice a week and can't handle it much anymore. Really enjoy one big bottle of beer and 2-3 glasses of nice wine on my booze nights which is also when I cook properly. (5 nightshifts is my working week). Would find that difficult to give up. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Marky Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 Brilliant for you and all the best with it. I just don't know if I could do it unless it was for my health. That said yesterday I was hungover, nothing too bad like spewing but I got into the car at 2pm and really thought I was not in control. Now, I am 110% sure I was legal to drive but my senses were shot, even giving the woman in the shop the correct money was task. I also felt a bit down yesterday and the slightest thing annoyed me. Bed time I was wide awake and my body just felt like crap after eating a lot of dirty food all day in an effort to satisfy my raging appetite! Even today my skin feels nasty and my guts feel bloated and the crap that dropped out this morning was utterly barbaric. It does get me thinking is it worth it but I really do enjoy getting pished though! Not sure how old you are Macy, but when you get to 50, you're describing EVERY hangover. Well, every major session hangover anyway. As Parkie says, it is possible to have a few quiet beers and feel ok the next day. Consequently, the number of major sessions I get involved in has decreased massively in recent years. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
neilser Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 There's no need to be so absolute about it IMO. It's possible to have a few beers most weekends and still be in good shape and healthy. Well done on giving up but having a few beers with my mates now and again, or a few beers when out for dinner with the bird is very enjoyable to me. It's possible to combine this with a good exercise regime and healthy diet. Absolutely agreed - it's just a question of deciding what suits you. For me, I felt so good about losing the weight and feeling healthy that I didn't want to 'regress' to any extent. Like I said, I'm fairly sure I'll go back to having a drink at some time in the future, but for now I'm content not to. On the topic of being round pished people all of my mates like a bucket - I still meet up every now and then in the pub and tend to find that the relaxed atmosphere means that I don't feel I'm missing out i.e. I can converse/laugh/reminisce with the rest of them without having had a drink. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
neilser Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 One thing I'd add is that if you really want to know what a difference reducing your alcohol intake can make you feel, the only way to do it is to stop altogether, even if only for a limited time such as a month. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Armchair Bob Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 Fffukk that. Facing up to the existential pain of being a Scotsman without the crutch of alcohol?? On a more sober note, having a family would probably cure me completely of the desire to sedate. I'm practically TT these days anyway compared to ten years ago, a bottle of beer with dinner every now and then, a coupe of pints with work colleagues roughly once a week. In the last year I've been seriously pished maybe only five or six times Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TartanJon Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 Top man Kmcca5 All the best to both of you Neilser as Parklife says just exercise and then treat yourself.I lost six stone by watching what I was eating and walking (over about a two year period) though I never starved myself or went without,to maintain that weight I still walk for 3-4 hours a day and that means I can eat and drink what I want. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dan cake Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 (edited) I've thought about given it up a few times but given most social situations I'm in involve people drinking then I do worry that I'd end up a bit of a recluse. Really hate being around drunk people when not drinking. Are your friends drinkers, and if so, how do you find it? outside scotland trips im not a big drinker, every now and again i'll go out and not drink unfortunately you just get abuse, some fat elephant weegie turned on me because in her own words "you think your better than us cause you dont drink" scotlands national problem summed up in one quote aye wha's like us Edited November 30, 2015 by dan cake Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
neilser Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 I hear you TartanJon - like I say, I don't doubt that I'll have a drink at some time in the future but because I don't feel like I'm missing out at all by not drinking (and I now actually prefer not drinking), that moment hasn't arrived yet. Mind you walking for 3 or 4 hours a day would undauntedly build up a calorie deficit to offset the odd glass or two. Good on you... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ParisInAKilt Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 You do get that, it's sad how not drinking yourself can annoy other people. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Marky Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 You do get that, it's sad how not drinking yourself can annoy other people. I think it's sometimes because they think you're going to be the twat the next day telling then what arses they made of themselves the previous day! :-) Hate folk that do that. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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