Millie Mackintosh on Sobriety and Malta’s Food Culture Shift
Millie Mackintosh’s journey into sobriety and wellness, as detailed in her book *Bad Drunk*, offers a fresh perspective on embracing a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. Her candid exploration of the emotional and physical toll of alcohol sheds light on the often-overlooked “grey areas” of drinking, where dependency may not exist but negative impacts on self-esteem, relationships, and mental health are evident. For Malta, a country where socializing frequently revolves around food and drink, Millie’s story resonates deeply, encouraging a shift toward mindful living and healthier habits. Her book highlights the empowering aspects of sobriety, showcasing how alcohol-free alternatives and wellness practices can enhance rather than detract from a vibrant, social lifestyle. With Malta’s growing focus on wellness events, non-alcoholic drink options, and health-conscious dining, Millie’s message challenges traditional norms, inspiring locals and visitors alike to reconsider their relationship with alcohol and prioritize self-care and mental health.
Millie Mackintosh on Sobriety, Shame, and Embracing a Healthier Lifestyle
In recent years, the concept of wellness has evolved dramatically, and for many, it’s no longer just about fitness or diet—it’s about finding balance, prioritizing mental health, and redefining personal relationships with substances like alcohol. Millie Mackintosh, a well-known TV personality and wellness advocate, has stepped into this space with her candid book Bad Drunk, exploring the emotional and physical toll of alcohol and the transformative power of sobriety.
When I spoke with Millie about her journey, one word kept surfacing—shame. It’s a topic often overlooked when discussing wellness, yet it’s deeply intertwined with how we view ourselves and our choices. In Malta, where social occasions often revolve around food, wine, and cocktails, her insights feel particularly timely. Millie’s story offers a refreshing perspective on how sobriety can align with a vibrant, fulfilling lifestyle, even in a culture where indulging is often part of the celebration.
Millie Mackintosh’s Instagram feed may showcase a life of smoothies, Pilates, and picture-perfect mornings, but her book pulls back the curtain on her struggles with alcohol. “I really wanted to write this book because I wish I had read it. I wish I’d had it as a teen or when I first stopped drinking,” Millie shared. The book dives into those “grey areas” many people experience—where alcohol might not lead to daily dependency but still exerts a negative influence on self-esteem, relationships, and personal behavior. For many in Malta, where wine bars and al fresco dining are a way of life, these grey areas can feel familiar.
In Bad Drunk, Millie recounts weekends lost to hangovers, arguments fueled by alcohol, and the cycle of anxiety that contributed to her drinking habits. She speaks openly about the impact this had on her ability to care for her children and the toll it took on her mental health. It’s a strikingly honest admission, but one that has connected her with a growing community of people reconsidering their relationship with alcohol. “I thought, if I’m going to do the book, I really can’t hold back,” she said.
Her journey underscores an essential truth: sobriety doesn’t have to mean deprivation. In fact, Millie describes her sober lifestyle as empowering, with a renewed focus on self-care, mindfulness, and healthy habits. For food lovers in Malta, this could mean swapping late-night cocktails for nourishing mocktails, or exploring the increasing number of restaurants offering non-alcoholic drink menus. Millie herself is a fan of alcohol-free options like Three Spirit and Trip—proof that going sober doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or fun.
The stigma surrounding sobriety and words like “alcoholic” can make change daunting, but Millie’s story highlights the growing movement of “sober curious” individuals—those who are not necessarily dependent on alcohol but feel it’s impacting their quality of life. “I wanted people to realize there are so many different options out there,” she said, mentioning the resources she lists in her book, including sober coaches and group courses. For locals in Malta, this movement is reflected in the rise of wellness events, alcohol-free gatherings, and venues catering to health-conscious diners.
Making the choice to stop drinking wasn’t easy for Millie. “At that point, I actually really disliked myself,” she admitted. But it became the catalyst for reclaiming her self-worth and building a new life centered on wellness. Her daily routine is a testament to her commitment: she wakes at 5:45am for transcendental meditation, takes a probiotic shot, enjoys a nutritious breakfast with her children, and attends Pilates classes. These habits align perfectly with the Mediterranean lifestyle in Malta, where fresh produce, outdoor exercise, and mindful living are celebrated.
For those wondering how sobriety can fit into a social, food-forward lifestyle, Millie offers reassurance. She’s found joy in connecting with new sober friends, and her relationship with dining and socializing has transformed. The growing availability of non-alcoholic wines, craft mocktails, and kombuchas means Malta’s food and drink scene is evolving to accommodate those seeking a healthier balance. Dining out without alcohol can still be a rich experience, especially with the island’s focus on fresh, vibrant cuisine.
Millie’s message is clear: “Sobriety is sexy—sobriety is cool.” Her book isn’t just about quitting alcohol; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that prioritizes self-care and mental health. For readers in Malta, this perspective is particularly relevant as more people explore ways to integrate wellness into their daily lives, whether through mindful eating, fitness routines, or reconsidering their drinking habits.
“Making that first big choice to stop drinking felt incredibly hard,” Millie reflected, “but it was the first step toward reclaiming my relationship with myself. Now, I choose habits that make me feel good and support my health. My only regret is not stopping sooner.”
Whether you’re curious about sobriety, looking for healthier dining options, or simply seeking inspiration to live better, Millie’s journey offers valuable lessons. Her book Bad Drunk is available now, and it’s a powerful reminder that wellness starts with self-love and the courage to make changes—even in small, incremental steps.
In Malta, where food and drink are often central to social gatherings, Millie’s story challenges us to reimagine what a “good time” really means. Sobriety isn’t about giving up—it’s about gaining clarity, energy, and a deeper connection to the things that truly nourish us.