Why I Quit Sugar, Alcohol & Stimulants—My Healing Journey

As a transformation coach specializing in mind, body, and spirit alignment, I know firsthand how deeply our habits impact our energy, clarity, and overall well-being. My decision to quit sugar, alcohol, and stimulants wasn’t about restriction—it was about liberation. It was about reclaiming my vitality, stabilizing my nervous system, and deepening my connection to my true self. Today, I want to share my journey, the science behind these changes, and how you, too, can transition into a more conscious and empowered state of living.

Why I Gave It Up: The Turning Point

Like many high-performing entrepreneurs and creatives, I used to rely on caffeine to push through fatigue, sugar for quick energy, and alcohol for relaxation. It was an unconscious cycle—one that I justified with my busy schedule and demanding lifestyle. But over time, I noticed a pattern: energy crashes, brain fog, inflammation, and an underlying sense of disconnection from my intuition and body.

The moment that changed everything was when I realized that what I put into my body directly influenced not just my health, but my spiritual clarity, creativity, and emotional stability. I wanted to operate from a place of pure, sustainable energy—not quick fixes that left me drained.

The Effects of Sugar, Alcohol & Stimulants on the Body & Mind

Each of these substances affects the body in ways that most people don’t realize. Here’s why I made the choice to eliminate them:

1. Sugar: The Silent Energy Saboteur

Spikes blood sugar, leading to crashes that disrupt focus and mood.
Increases inflammation, contributing to joint pain, bloating, and skin issues.
Feeds gut imbalances, impacting digestion and even mental health (since 90% of serotonin is produced in the gut).

That said, it’s important to note that not all sugar is the enemy. Enjoying natural sugars from fruit is not only beneficial but essential for proper nutrition. The key is to avoid excessive added sugars and aim for the recommended daily intake of 25-50g, which can still allow for a balanced, enjoyable diet.

2. Alcohol: A Numbing Agent in Disguise

Disrupts sleep cycles, even if consumed hours before bed.
Lowers vibration and dulls intuition, making it harder to tap into clarity and alignment.
Places stress on the liver, a key organ for detoxification and hormone balance.

When I cut out alcohol and processed sugar for just four weeks, I lost 1.5 inches around my waist without changing anything else. It was proof that these substances were causing inflammation and bloating, making my body hold onto excess weight unnecessarily.

3. Stimulants (Caffeine & Energy Boosters): The Nervous System Overload

Increases cortisol levels, keeping the body in a state of stress and survival mode.
Creates dependency, making natural energy production less efficient.
Contributes to adrenal fatigue, leading to burnout and hormonal imbalances.

I don't deprive myself of caffeine but I am mindful about my intake and the quality I am ingesting. I stick to Green Tea, Matcha and one 10-12 oz cup of Mushroom Coffee a day.

The Benefits I Experienced After Quitting

The first few weeks weren’t easy—I won’t sugarcoat it (pun intended). But the rewards far outweighed the withdrawal. Here’s what changed:

Clearer Skin & Reduced Inflammation: My body stopped holding onto excess water weight, my face became less puffy, and my joints felt lighter.
Steady, Natural Energy: No more afternoon crashes or waking up groggy. My energy felt sustainable and steady throughout the day.
Heightened Intuition & Mental Clarity: My ability to listen to my inner guidance became sharper. Meditation, creativity, and decision-making felt effortless.
Better Sleep & Emotional Balance: Without alcohol or stimulants disrupting my system, I slept deeper and woke up feeling truly rested.
Greater Emotional Awareness & Healing: Instead of numbing discomfort with sugar or alcohol, I faced my emotions head-on, leading to deeper self-growth.
Noticeable Body Changes: Losing 1.5 inches around my waist in just four weeks showed me how much these substances were impacting my body composition.

How You Can Start Your Own Detox

If you’re curious about eliminating sugar, alcohol, or stimulants, here are some key steps to make the transition easier:

Start With Awareness: Track your intake for a week to see how much of these substances you consume daily. Awareness is the first step to change.
Replace, Don’t Restrict: Swap out sugar with natural sweeteners like monk fruit or dates, replace alcohol with herbal elixirs, and transition from coffee to matcha or herbal teas.
Support Your Body: Increase hydration, eat whole foods rich in fiber and protein, and supplement with B vitamins and magnesium to ease withdrawal symptoms.
Prioritize Sleep & Stress Management: Since these substances often mask underlying stress or exhaustion, focus on healing your nervous system with breathwork, meditation, and deep sleep.
Commit to a 30-Day Reset: Give yourself at least a month to experience the full benefits. The cravings will pass, and the clarity you gain will be worth it.

Final Thoughts: A Journey of Self-Liberation

Quitting sugar, alcohol, and stimulants wasn’t just about health—it was about reclaiming my power, focus, and authenticity. It allowed me to show up more fully in my work, my relationships, and my mission as a transformation coach. That being said, I believe in balance, not deprivation. If you enjoy a glass of wine on occasion or a dessert here and there, that’s okay! The goal is to make conscious choices that serve your highest well-being, rather than operating on autopilot.

Are you ready to take the leap into a more vibrant, conscious way of living? Drop a comment below or connect with me on Instagram @coreycocotess to share your thoughts! Let’s transform together. ✨