Brain Shaman

William Porter: The Science of Alcohol and How to Quit | Episode 46

Oct 11, 2023

01:27:17

William Porter is the author of Alcohol Explained. Today we talk about alcohol and how it affects the brain, body, and our lives. We discuss the benefits of living an alcohol-free life and answer questions such as the following:

What is drunkenness? What's happening in the brain?
What role does homeostasis play in our drinking?
What is a hangover?
How does alcohol affect sleep?
Is moderation an okay strategy?
What beliefs about alcohol are holding us back?
How can we learn to have positive experiences without alcohol?
How does socializing contribute to our alcohol buzz / drunkenness?
Does alcohol really help us connect with others?
Why do get so emotional (angry, violent, sad, etc.) when drinking?
What are the long-term health risks of drinking alcohol?
How does alcohol impact the memory centers in our brain?
What are blackouts?
What caused William to quit drinking?
What can you expect in the first days and weeks after quitting alcohol?
How does alcohol affect appetite?
How can you overcome your cravings for alcohol (or anything)?
How does 'fading affect bias' play a role in our drinking habits?
What new possibilities can abstinence from alcohol open up?
How can you have a social life without alcohol?
What are some differences between British and American drinking cultures?
Why do people smoke cigarettes (or take other drugs) more when drinking alcohol?
How is the process of quitting alcohol different from (and similar to) that of quitting smoking?
How can we minimize the damaging effects of alcohol?
How does an alcohol-free life increase our freedom and range of possibilities?
What is addiction?
What are the long-term benefits of quitting alcohol?