All articles tagged with #abstinence
Recovery from AUD is a spectrum—ranging from full sobriety to controlled drinking—reflected in DSM-5 and the NIAAA’s definitions; abstinence often yields the strongest health gains, but non-abstinent recovery can be viable for some, broadening access to care and challenging the old idea that sobriety is the only measure of recovery.
A JAMA Insights review links chronic cannabis use to scromiting (scream-vomiting), a manifestation of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, and says sustained abstinence is the only proven cure. The article notes rising THC potency may drive more cases, cites a spike in CHS-related emergency visits, and estimates about 6% of marijuana users experience scromiting annually. It also recommends addiction counseling, gradual reduction, and switching to lower-potency products, while warning that withdrawal and relapse can occur.
A Mayo Clinic–Ohio State University study published in JAMA Insights warns that chronic cannabis use can trigger cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome and its severe “scromiting” episodes; with rising THC levels in cannabis products, researchers say sustained abstinence is the only proven long-term cure and abrupt quitting can trigger withdrawal, underscoring the role of addiction counseling and switching to lower-potency cannabis. The study also notes CHS-related emergency department visits rose markedly from 2016 to 2022, while the exact prevalence of scromiting remains unclear (one clinician estimates about 6% of marijuana users may experience it annually).
A mouse study shows that long-term voluntary alcohol use followed by forced abstinence can lead to aversion‑resistant drinking and heightened activity in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST), with BNST activity evident even before exposure to alcohol. This suggests abstinence-related brain changes may raise relapse risk and points to BNST as a potential screening target to identify those most vulnerable to relapse and tailor interventions.
A Washington Post summary of neuroscience experts explains that alcohol initially elevates mood through endorphins and dopamine, but chronic use alters brain chemistry and reduces gray matter in frontal regions, potentially increasing dementia risk and other health problems. Importantly, evidence also shows the brain can recover with reduced or stopped drinking: cognitive functions like attention and memory improve within 6–12 months, gray matter can increase, and frontal regions show growth, especially early in abstinence. Even low-to-moderate drinking can affect brain structure, but abstinence or reduction may restore function and compensatory pathways. Practical takeaways include Dry January/Sober October, recovery-support tools, and seeking professional help if drinking is problematic; the brain’s plasticity offers a path to recovery for many (though full recovery isn’t guaranteed for everyone).
Alcohol can shrink gray matter and dysregulate stress and reward systems, raising anxiety, sleep disruption and dementia risk with heavier, long‑term use. But the brain is highly plastic: reducing or stopping alcohol can restore function and structure, with cognitive improvements and gray‑matter gains often seen after 6–12 months of abstinence, especially in frontal regions. Even lower levels of drinking can impact the brain, while reductions can still yield cortical growth. Recovery varies by how much and how long one drank, but many people feel better when they cut back or quit, aided by evidence‑based therapies and tools like Dry January, sobriety apps, and professional help if needed.
Conor McGregor says he’s abstaining from all physical touch for the first time ahead of his UFC return to fight Max Holloway, a bid for an edge in his comeback since 2021. The piece notes his wife Dee Devlin’s potential reaction and references his long layoff plus past injury and controversy surrounding his comeback.
A new review in Addiction confirms that alcohol causes more than 60 diseases and injuries that are entirely attributable to consumption, raises infection risk, and is linked to five broad non-communicable disease categories (cancer, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, neuropsychiatric, and gastrointestinal diseases). Some short‑term harms and certain cardiovascular markers can improve with abstinence, but chronic damage such as cirrhosis and much brain injury are not fully reversible, leading to the conclusion that alcohol’s overall harms outweigh any potential benefits (with evidence for heart protection at low intake remaining inconclusive).
A review of nearly 150 studies finds that regular ejaculation or sex can help sperm quality, while abstinence modestly degrades it via increased oxidative stress and DNA damage, reducing viability and motility in humans and other animals. A recent IVF trial suggested higher fertilization success when men ejaculate within 48 hours of sample collection, though the impact on natural fertility remains unclear. The findings could lead clinics to reassess abstinence guidelines and emphasize sperm quality alongside quantity, while general health benefits of regular sexual activity appear unaffected.
Actress Rebel Wilson revealed in her new memoir that she lost her virginity at 35, emphasizing the importance of waiting until one feels ready and not succumbing to societal pressure. The trend of delaying sexual experiences and romantic relationships among young people is on the rise, with many opting for abstinence due to various reasons such as a desire for emotional connection, mindfulness, or disillusionment with hookup culture. Experts suggest seeking professional help if fear of romantic relationships is a barrier to forming connections, and advise individuals to focus on self-exploration, defining their desires, and sticking to their boundaries without comparing themselves to others.
Rapper 50 Cent announced on Instagram that he is "practicing abstinence" in 2024 to focus on a new project, receiving support from fans. The decision comes as he has multiple projects lined up, including a British boxing drama and a TV series based on Eminem's biopic "8 Mile." His recent romantic relationship with former model Jamira "Cuban Link" Haynes may be affected by this resolution.
Rapper 50 Cent revealed on Instagram that he is practicing abstinence as his New Year's resolution to focus on his goals and avoid distractions, hinting at potential new business ventures. This announcement comes amid rumors of a split with his girlfriend, Jamira 'Cuban Link' Haines, whom he has been dating since 2019. The couple remains private about their relationship, and engagement rumors from last year were debunked. 50 Cent recently concluded his The Final Lap Tour, celebrating the 20th anniversary of his successful 2003 album, Get Rich Or Die Tryin'.
Rapper 50 Cent announced on Instagram that he is practicing abstinence in 2024, citing a big new idea that requires his full focus. While it's unclear what exactly he's abstaining from, the post also included tags for his liquor brands, hinting at a potential advertising campaign. Fans are left speculating about the nature of his big idea and eagerly await further clarification from the rapper.
Rapper 50 Cent has announced his resolution to practice sexual abstinence in 2024, emphasizing his focus on business and personal goals. The decision will also affect his private relationship with girlfriend Jamira "Cuban Link" Haines. Additionally, 50 Cent has revealed plans for a documentary addressing sexual assault allegations against Diddy, with proceeds to be donated to victims of sexual assault and rape.
Hollywood is full of celebrities who have chosen to abstain from sex until marriage. From supermodels like Adriana Lima and Miranda Kerr to musicians like Kevin Jonas and Carrie Underwood, these celebrities have openly discussed their decisions to wait. Yvonne Orji, Justin Bieber, Jessica Simpson, and Tim Tebow are among those who have shared their experiences with abstinence. While some have chosen to wait for religious reasons, others have made the decision based on personal values and beliefs. Despite facing challenges and societal pressures, these celebrities have remained committed to their choices and have found fulfillment in waiting.