148. The Alcohol Episode: How It Affects Your Health, Hormones, Habits & Social Life

Ever wondered what alcohol is really doing to your body, your hormones, and your headspace? In this episode, Leanne is joined by clinical psychologist Dr Sally Hunt, a leading expert in women’s mental health and alcohol use. Together, they unpack why alcohol feels helpful in the moment—but quietly undermines sleep, mood, motivation, and long-term well-being. Whether you’re doing Dry July, rethinking your weeknight wine, or just curious about alcohol-free options, this episode will give you clarity, compassion, and practical strategies to make choices you actually feel good about. We cover: How alcohol affects sleep, anxiety, hormones, and perimenopause symptoms Why women often drink to cope (not just to socialise) The truth about “moderate drinking” and why there’s no truly safe level How to handle social pressure without awkwardness Why just one or two drinks can impact recovery, energy and weight What to expect in your first 2–4 weeks alcohol-free The psychology of habit change—and how to make alcohol-free living feel empowering, not restrictive Plus, Leanne shares how she’s personally cutting back, and why Edenvale’s non-alcoholic wines have become her go-to for dinner parties, wind-down rituals, and weekend celebrations. 🍇 Episode Sponsor This episode is proudly sponsored by Edenvale — Australia’s award-winning alcohol-removed wine range. Whether you’re doing Dry July or simply cutting back on alcohol, Edenvale lets you enjoy the taste, aroma and complexity of real wine — without the alcohol or next-day regret. Made from premium Australian grapes and crafted using a GoLo heat-pump powered unit, the first of its kind in the world, Edenvale’s range includes Sparkling Rosé, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and more. With less than 0.5% alcohol by volume, fewer calories than regular wine, and a wide variety of styles, Edenvale helps you celebrate every moment — your way. Shop the full range or learn more at edenvale.com.au Instagram: @edenvalewines 🎧 Why You Should Listen Now 🔍 For first‑time listeners: Cut through alcohol marketing myths with evidence-based insight 🌱 For loyal fans: Deepen your toolkit with expert strategies on sleep, stress, perimenopause & habit change 🚀 For wellness seekers: Optimize hormone balance, mood resilience, mental clarity & long-term health Ready to press pause on alcohol and pivot to more energy, focus and hormone harmony? This episode is for you.

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148. The Alcohol Episode: How It Affects Your Health, Hormones, Habits & Social Life is an episode from Leanne Ward Nutrition by Leanne Ward.

This episode is 50:58 long.

This episode was published on Jul 23, 2025.

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