Hormone Hangover: How Alcohol Wrecks Hormones, Sleep, and Longevity With Dr. Erika Schwartz

Some of the “normal” things we do to unwind are quietly wrecking our bodies, and alcohol might be at the top of that list.

You might not realize how much the occasional glass of wine is disrupting your hormones, wrecking your sleep, and sabotaging your detox efforts until you take a closer look at the research. And once you hear what it’s doing to your thyroid, testosterone, liver, and brain chemistry, it’s hard to ignore.

That’s why I asked Dr. Erika Schwartz—a pioneer in hormone health and founder of Evolved Science—to come break it all down.

In this episode, Dr. Erika explains how alcohol impacts every single hormone in your body, including estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, thyroid, and even your sleep-regulating neurochemicals. She talks about how alcohol contributes to hypothyroidism, depletes your zinc and B vitamins, and accelerates aging, and why hormone replacement therapy could be life-changing (especially if you’ve hit your 40s and can’t sleep).

And we talk solutions. Like how to replace alcohol as your stress reliever, how to balance hormones safely, and what you can do right now to feel better.

“The earlier you start changing your diet, cutting back on alcohol, balancing your hormones, exercising, and sleeping regularly, the more likely you are to enjoy your life.” ~ Dr. Erika Schwartz

In This Episode
00:00 - Introduction
05:06 - Dr. Erika’s backstory
10:22 - What alcohol does to your hormones
17:10 - The hormones that are most affected by alcohol
20:07 - How the body metabolizes alcohol
22:39 - Liver health and alcohol
27:42 - Testing for liver cirrhosis and hormone imbalances
32:33 - Debunking the “one glass of wine is healthy” myth
36:52 - Alcohol’s negative impact on sleep quality and insulin regulation
41:00 - GABA, dopamine, and why alcohol feels relaxing
42:30 - Alternative ways to relax without alcohol
54:50 - Progesterone and alcohol cravings (and how to fix it)
1:03:33 - Other health issues tied to alcohol consumption

Products & Resources Mentioned

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Tru Energy Skincare Serum: I’ve used this serum every night for over a year. It’s a frequency-based serum that supports collagen production and balances your skin’s energetic blueprint—yes, really. It contains over 2,000 frequencies plus fruit enzymes, oat kernel extract, algae, and chlorella. I use it under my moisturizer to keep my skin firm, calm, and youthful. Get a special deal at https://trytruenergy.com/wendy

Chef’s Foundry P600 Cookware: This cookware line is PFAS-free, toxin-free, and built for clean cooking. No aluminum, cadmium, or lead leaching into your healthy meals. I love that it supports my detox lifestyle without compromising quality in the kitchen. Find it at https://bit.ly/myersdetox

Heavy Metals Quiz: Take this quick quiz to find out your toxic load score and get a free video series on safe detox methods. It’s a simple way to learn if toxins like heavy metals are affecting your hormones, energy, and mood. Start at https://heavymetalsquiz.com

About Dr. Erika Schwartz
Dr. Erika Schwartz is a board-certified MD and founder of Evolved Science, a cutting-edge longevity clinic based in New York City. Known for her pioneering work in hormone optimization and patient-driven care, Dr. Erika has spent over three decades helping people prevent disease and extend healthspan with bioidentical hormones, personalized wellness, and advanced diagnostics. She’s the author of multiple bestselling books, has appeared in the New York Times, Vogue, and Town & Country, and hosts the Redefining Medicine podcast.
Learn more at: https://eshealth.com
Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drerikaschwartz/

Disclaimer
The Myers Detox Podcast was created and hosted by Dr. Wendy Myers. This podcast is for information purposes only. Statements and views expressed on this podcast are not medical advice. This podcast, including Wendy Myers and the producers, disclaims responsibility for any possible adverse effects from using the information contained herein. The opinions of guests are their own, and this podcast does not endorse or accept responsibility for statements made by guests. This podcast does not make any representations or warranties about guests' qualifications or credibility. Individuals on this podcast may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to herein. If you think you have a medical problem, consult a licensed physician.