How
Alcohol Impacts the Body and Tips for Cutting Back
Brain
Alcohol acts as a depressant on the brain, slowing down activity
and function. It impairs coordination, memory, judgement and decision-making
abilities. Binge drinking can lead to blackouts.
Heart
Drinking raises blood pressure and can cause cardiomyopathy,
arrhythmias and stroke. Heavy drinking also contributes to obesity, increasing
heart disease risks.
Liver
Alcohol can cause fat to accumulate in liver cells, leading to
alcoholic fatty liver disease. This can progress to inflammation, fibrosis,
cirrhosis and liver failure.
Pancreas
Heavy alcohol use is a leading cause of pancreatitis or
inflammation of the pancreas. Chronic pancreatitis can impair insulin
production leading to diabetes.
Cancer Risk
Chronic alcohol consumption raises risks of mouth, esophageal,
throat, liver and breast cancer. Alcohol damages DNA and body tissues.
Immune System
Drinking excessive amounts suppresses the immune system, making
you more susceptible to pneumonia and tuberculosis. Hangovers also take a toll
on immunity.
Tips for Cutting Back on
Alcohol
·
Record number of drinks
to identify patterns
·
Set a maximum limit per
week
·
Avoid drinking
"triggers" like events or friends
·
Find new social
activities and hobbies
·
Avoid keeping alcohol at
home
·
Dilute drinks with soda
or water
·
Sip slowly to make drinks
last longer
·
Talk to your doctor if
you need help quitting
Conclusion
Alcohol negatively impacts the brain, heart, liver, pancreas and
immune system while increasing cancer risk. Moderating intake or quitting
improves health. Speak with your doctor for help cutting back if needed.
Frequently Asked
Questions
1.
What are 5 effects of
alcohol on the body?
Impaired coordination, memory loss, liver damage, high blood
pressure, suppressed immunity, cancer risk, weight gain, and mental health
issues.
2.
Does alcohol thin or
thicken your blood?
Drinking makes blood thinner and less able to clot properly.
This raises the risk of bleeding events and hemorrhagic stroke.
3.
What happens if you drink
alcohol everyday?
Daily drinking can lead to alcoholism and severe health effects
like liver disease, pancreatitis, heart problems, neurological issues and
nutritional deficiencies.
4.
What are signs you need
to stop drinking?
Signs include inability to limit intake, needing a drink to
relax or sleep, neglected priorities, unexplained injuries, memory issues and
financial or legal troubles.
