Originally Posted by
Koyote
I call my Garmin watch "The Joy Killer," because it convinced me to reduce alcohol intake, late-night snacking, and evening screen time -- all things that I enjoyed. In fact, after being a drinker for over four decades (and a 2-3 beverage per day drinker for at least the previous 5 years), I have pretty much quit consuming alcohol altogether. The results are much higher sleep scores, lower resting HR, higher HRV, shorter recovery times, and greater training readiness.
There are many systems in your body that are likely to be healthier for a longer, healthier life. I got a scare from my nephrologist (kidney doctor). My kidneys are slowing down but not failing. I already am not a drinker, so I'll stay that way. I will have a small drink every month or two, and that should be OK. I'm slowly changing my diet in response as well. Less spicy food, less sugar, etc.
We may lose some joys of those things, but if we can buy some extra health, that's another kind of joy.