LESS Alcohol ~ NOVEMBER 2024 ~ One Day at A Time

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  • SurferGirl1982
    SurferGirl1982 Posts: 382 Member
    edited November 19
    @NonnieDoiron I haven't been real active in this discussion lately. I haven't been doing well in the AF department. But I do come on here occasionally just to try and keep up. My husband and I have talked and he's going to help me with my goals.

    I'll try to keep this story short. But at a young age, I had an accident that later caused problems with my knee. I went to see an orthopedic surgeon. He wasn't the best. But at the time, I didn't have reliable transportation to go to the doctor that my pc doctor wanted me to see.

    I was only around 50. So knee replacement wasn't an option. He prescribed 500 mg of Aleve twice a day. I took that dosage for many years. At one point, I became severely anemic. In fact, the doctor at urgent care said that he would normally call an ambulance. But we were so close to the hospital that he told us to go there immediately. They called ahead. The nurse told me to make sure that I go because, "I didn't have much time left on this earth!" Yikes! My husband ran to the car! I spent the night in the hospital, had a blood transfusion, endoscopy, colonoscopy. It turns out that I had some bleeding in my stomach due to the NSAIDS (which I no longer take). I had to take iron and vitamin C for a while. It was 10 years ago. But, I had major problems with the iron. Hard to recall. But it seems that it was mostly gastrointestinal issues. I was so glad to be off of it (after blood tests).

    I did Google what @forestdweller1 mentioned about iron. And, one thing said, "Taking too much iron can cause iron poisoning, which can lead to liver damage and death. The first symptoms of iron poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, and belly pain."

    I do believe in listening to our doctors. But, I also believe in advocating for ourselves. I try to make a list of questions to ask when I go to the doctor. Sometimes I do pretty good. But at other times (anxiety issues), I just want to get out of there.

    Oh, BTW, are you cramps in your legs or stomach. I can't remember who mentioned it. But, she said that leg cramps are usually caused my a lack of magnesium or potassium. I was getting them really bad in my calves and feet. I started taking magnesium glycinate (only one a day). And the cramps are completely gone. Just another thing to add to your list of questions.

    Sorry that this post is so long! Take care!

  • SurferGirl1982
    SurferGirl1982 Posts: 382 Member
    @NonnieDoiron I'm so sorry to hear about your medical issues💔

    When I had my anemia problem it was very severe. But I'm one of those people that won't go to the doctor unless I'm about dead. What happened is that I had been anemic for quite some time.

    One day, I told my husband that I would like to go out to look at my neighbor's flowerbed that she had been working on. I hadn't been out of the house for a couple of weeks. When I got to her flowerbed, I realized it was mistake...I was very weak, light-headed, and dizzy. I managed to get back into the house and my bed.

    The next day, we were going into town and I told my husband that I thought we should go to urgent care. He definitely agreed. My hemoglobin level was so low, it was almost impossible to be alive. The doctors kept asking me, "Why did you come in today?". Basically, they were thinking that I was very sick and should have come in sooner. I don't know why I waited. I wasn't even drinking at the time.

    I have another story about putting off medical care, which is actually more dramatic than that time. But, I don't want to write a book.

    I'm not a doctor or nurse. But, maybe, you should see someone else. You know...get a second opinion?

    I'm thinking of you and take care!

  • SurferGirl1982
    SurferGirl1982 Posts: 382 Member
    @NonnieDoiron Also, I forgot to mention...Your son is totally amazing! You should be very proud. He is an incredible young man 🙂
  • Womona
    Womona Posts: 1,775 Member
    edited November 20
    @NonnieDoiron it’s such a delicate balance. You need vitamins and other nutrients, but not too much! And not too little! And make sure you’re getting enough protein, and also make sure your gut flora is the “right” combination, and watch out for gluten and other inflammatory foods so you don’t make the cholesterol issues worse…. It must be even more challenging to manage after your procedure. I’m exhausted for you! I hope you’re able to find the balance soon, and that you start feeling better.

    I can attest to needing to drink more water, though. Our organs function the way they’re supposed to when we have enough hydration. Of course, coffee and alcohol make us even more dehydrated, so we have to make up for that as well. The good news is you can get water from things like soup and watermelon, etc, so you aren’t restricted to just chugging water. Just accept that you’ll be peeing a lot more! So many people don’t want to drink because they don’t want to pee, but you get used to it and it’s not a bother anymore for me.

    Stretching is also really good for us!

    Hang in there.
  • Womona
    Womona Posts: 1,775 Member
    I poured a little bit more after my one glass of wine last night, and although I drank it, I didn’t enjoy it as much as I thought I would. Tonight is book club, so I have to get back to my micro-sips so I don’t have that second glass.

    It must be nearing my TOM because I’ve been so hungry the last two days, and went way over my calories. I’m sure it will pass, but it’s alarming to see that scale go up!
  • xbowhunter
    xbowhunter Posts: 1,237 Member
    globalhiker wrote: »
    Hey folks, 80 days AF done - all thanks to your support. For real! And getting up every morning to spend a few minutes checking in here, setting my intention for the day, and then a few minutes before falling asleep at night, I read stories about people who completely stopped drinking, what their journey was like, and what they did to be successful.

    And I learn from those who failed, got up and then succeeded and it fascinates me to understand the process and how they got there.

    I was stuck in the spin cycle, had to hit the off button and get out.

    Excellent results! :)

    I am on day 67 AF and feel pretty amazing. knowing what I know now I'm done drinking for good. At age 55 I don't have many sunrises left so I need to make every day count and to be the best man I can be so this means no more alcohol and all its nasty side effects.

    The only drawback for me now is I am a true introvert and needed alcohol to interact in certain social situations. I am still learning how to be me and let my guard down a bit to be able to socialize again.

    Truth be told I'd rather hang out with my dog than most people I know... lol
  • Michieb125
    Michieb125 Posts: 800 Member
    edited November 20
    I find the medical discussion’s today so interesting! And for those of you struggling with answers on health, I agree that we need to advocate for ourselves and research reliable and trusted information on treating the whole person - mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual! During 2020, I had bad cramping in my feet and legs in addition to restless leg syndrome symptoms. It is the worst feeling @NonnieDoiron so I feel you. You are a busy lady and take great care of all those around you (an angel on earth)! Stretching is so good for breaking up that junk that collects in our muscles and nervous system too. I hope you find relief soon!

    @itladyee love your update on your grandson! The littles do seem to be constantly hungry! And the “hell” question lol. Out of the mouths of babes they say. I’m also blessed with two grandchildren, ages 6-8 now. And, I hear you about having them overnight for 2 days vs. 4. They can sure wipe us G mas and G pas OUT. They sound lucky to have you!

    @Womona awww micro-sips…..I need to get back to those myself.

    @globalhiker congrats on 80 AF days! That is truly a milestone - you make time for yourself first in the AM and PM and are determined to stay AF each day. It’s working!

    @SurferGirl1982 good to see you here!

    My goal is always less and not quitting altogether, but would like to change the less habit and get to occasions only. Need to read Atomic habits!

    November stats:
    AF - 5
    A - 15
  • SurferGirl1982
    SurferGirl1982 Posts: 382 Member
    Thanks @Michieb125 I'm still feeling a bit...well...hard to explain. Still drinking and feeling a bit depressed. I don't plan on being a drinker anymore by next week.

    I also enjoy talking about medical issues. I also enjoy nutrition and exercise topics. I do pretty good on the nutrition aspect. But, as far as exercise, that's a little more difficult. I'm 67 and my balance and coordination aren't that great right now. Plus, I've had total knee replacement. So, running, jumping, any high impact activities are out of the question. My surgeon even said "shear" movements weren't good like in serious tennis. Just volleying would be OK. The good news is that I can still walk, hike, climb stairs, etc.

    I appreciate you all!

    November:
    AF - 0
    A - 20

    I will do better next month!
  • NonnieDoiron
    NonnieDoiron Posts: 330 Member
    AF - 10
    A - 10

    Well, November has been a bear. I am ready for my time off next week. Looking forward to cooking and baking for my family and friends. I don’t even know who is coming. We’ve invited many, so I guess we’ll see who shows. I always feel better cooking for large crowds. I once thought of becoming a chef, but as a chef you’re too busy cooking to see people enjoy the food. I like to watch people eat my cooking. Weird, I know.

    Work has been horrible this week, so many deadlines right before the holidays in the military event planning world I work in. It’s just unsettling to log off at the end of the day knowing there are so many loose ends. But, I’m praying that by Monday, the majority of my headaches will come to an end for the week.

    Thanks for the medical discussion. I think the prednisone is just messing with me. I’m getting pissed about everything, and I know water and stretching are important. There are only 3 things I typically drink: 2 cups of coffee every morning, 2 glasses of wine (apparently every other night at this point), and water… lots and lots of water! I have a 22 oz water cup I fill up at least a half a dozen times a day. I drink a glass of water with dinner. I pee all the time! Ok, so I don’t stretch. Hell, when do I have the time?! Time to type this post has been between cooking, peeing, feeding the chickens, the dog, and doing dishes. Half the time I write these posts while on the toilet (gross TMI, sorry, but true). My only me-time is when I finally crumple down onto the couch with my husband and half watch a movie with him. By then, I’m too mentally exhausted to move much less stretch. I’d really like to floss my teeth after brushing them and blow dry my hair after I shampoo it. I’d like to be able to clean my bathrooms more than 1-2 times a month. Stretching is such a low priority to me.

    Oh well… gotta pee… again.😉
  • SurferGirl1982
    SurferGirl1982 Posts: 382 Member
    NonnieDoiron wrote: »
    Oh well… gotta pee… again.😉

    Josh, I hate when that happens 😀

    BTW...what time is dinner?

  • NonnieDoiron
    NonnieDoiron Posts: 330 Member
    SurferGirl1982 wrote: »
    NonnieDoiron wrote: »
    Oh well… gotta pee… again.😉

    Josh, I hate when that happens 😀

    BTW...what time is dinner?

    LOL… dinner is at 6:00 every night. Come on over! 😉
  • globalhiker
    globalhiker Posts: 1,683 Member
    Day 81 AF done. Re: leg and feet discomfort/pain - a few things I found helpful to me:

    1-sleep nightly with elevated lower leg/feet using a pillow or rolled up small quilt
    2-if I get aches, typically afternoons on hot days when I've been active, I will use my Sharper Image hand-held massager (best Xmas gifts I ever got) and use that on my legs for 5-10 min while I watch tv
    3-I hate compression stockings with a passion, but after trying loads of them, I like the BAMS brand soft sock-like compression stockings. They make the aching and throbbing go away and they are very comfy. My legs even look thinner after wearing them since they help the blood circulate back up and help to reduce swelling from activity.
    4-$1.25 bag of epsom salt from the dollar store, use that in a hot bath and sit in it for ten minutes. It always makes me feel way better.

    For me, these issues are just getting older and swelling, especially on hot days or days I exercise a lot. If I cut my sodium, I would be better off.

  • globalhiker
    globalhiker Posts: 1,683 Member
    Breathe57103 wrote: »
    I am still doing well with my less alcohol journey this month.

    AF - 17
    A - 2 (4 total drinks)

    My victory today was I had one single Michelob Ultra and then stopped. My friend who came into town for 5 nights had 6-8 White Claws. I enjoyed myself just as much as I do when I have 4 or 5 beers. Lesson learned...I don't need alcohol to be social.

    Keep up the great work on your LA journeys.

    I see 3 victories here. First, congrats on 17 days AF! AND a second congrats on stopping at qty 1. AND a third congrats for managing a social situation with drinking friend (big trigger) where it's super easy to follow others and do like they do. It's good you are able to exercise this level of control.
  • SurferGirl1982
    SurferGirl1982 Posts: 382 Member
    edited 5:40PM
    globalhiker wrote: »
    Day 81 AF done. Re: leg and feet discomfort/pain - a few things I found helpful to me:

    1-sleep nightly with elevated lower leg/feet using a pillow or rolled up small quilt
    2-if I get aches, typically afternoons on hot days when I've been active, I will use my Sharper Image hand-held massager (best Xmas gifts I ever got) and use that on my legs for 5-10 min while I watch tv
    3-I hate compression stockings with a passion, but after trying loads of them, I like the BAMS brand soft sock-like compression stockings. They make the aching and throbbing go away and they are very comfy. My legs even look thinner after wearing them since they help the blood circulate back up and help to reduce swelling from activity.
    4-$1.25 bag of epsom salt from the dollar store, use that in a hot bath and sit in it for ten minutes. It always makes me feel way better.

    For me, these issues are just getting older and swelling, especially on hot days or days I exercise a lot. If I cut my sodium, I would be better off.

    @globalhiker First off...congratulations on 81 days AF.

    Your suggestions are very useful. Epsom salt has used for years for many ailments. It's something our grandmothers used. It's actually magnesium sulfate. So that's why it helps with cramps, etc. There are many benefits...too many to mention. It's also used for plants. Unfortunately, my problem is that if I get into the tub, I may not be able to get out. Can you imagine how embarrassing it would be to have to call the fire department to get me out (butt naked) ☹️

    The other suggestion that I found very useful for myself is the compression socks. They really do help. But, you know how it is...I don't put them on. They do make different compression strengths. But, sometimes, they can be hard to put on...or take off. I will check out that brand that you mentioned.

    Thanks...and keep up the good work!
  • SurferGirl1982
    SurferGirl1982 Posts: 382 Member
    NonnieDoiron wrote: »
    SurferGirl1982 wrote: »
    NonnieDoiron wrote: »
    Oh well… gotta pee… again.😉

    Josh, I hate when that happens 😀

    BTW...what time is dinner?

    LOL… dinner is at 6:00 every night. Come on over! 😉

    Anyways, I meant to say Gosh, not Josh. But, I think you all know what I meant.

    You sound like a wonderful cook. I would like to come over for Thanksgiving dinner. But, I think we live on opposite sides of the country. I would even be willing to sit on the porch if there wasn't room at the table 😀 Well, I guess between my husband and I, we should be able to make a decent meal. It's actually more difficult when there's just two of you. Because you want all of the normal sides. But, then you have leftovers for days.
  • SurferGirl1982
    SurferGirl1982 Posts: 382 Member
    Since we're talking about medical and other health and fitness issues. I wanted to mention a book that I purchased that I think is excellent. I may have mentioned it in prior months (not sure). But, it's called, "6-Minute Core Strength" by Dr Jonathan SU, DPT. He also has basically the same book for people over 60. I don't recommend the over 60 book even though I'm over 60. It has pretty much the same exercises but the exercise instructions aren't as detailed.

    As most of you know, I haven't been doing that well with my AF goals. So, at this time, I really can't do the exercises. I tried to show my husband how to do the Birddog exercise yesterday. And, I almost landed on my face.

    Anyways, I will be AF soon and will be able to start exercising again.

    Take care all!
  • MissMay
    MissMay Posts: 3,749 Member
    edited 9:36PM
    Hello LESS alcohol folks out there

    So much to read since I was last on. But WOW!
    Have not had any more of the Fever Tree Expresso mix again . One little set back was I may have mixed it heavy on the expresso and was AWAKE most of the night, which sucked! I am now gun shy to make another mocktail with it.

    To answer those who asked. I mixed it with chocolate boost and dolloped a table spoon of cool whip on top as a garnish floater. Next time I am going to try mixing it with the vanilla boost.

    Today is 46 consecutive days AF !!!!.
    Next Thursday is Thanksgiving and my husband's birthday and an overnight get a way all on the same day. He will insist I drink to help him celebrate. I am NOT feeling it and want to continue this course. Nothing makes me more determined than someone trying to force me into drinking when it was not my own idea.

    I don't want to sound childish or like a control freak, but this is MY decision, no one else's. Why can't drinkers just leave me to be happy with my mocktails? It isn't until they get pushy, and to insistent that have a drink, that I turn into a KAREN.

    OK, feel better I vented on that.

    November accountability-
    A = zero
    Alcohol free streak 46 days
    Sugar in my coffee = zero

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