What is the impact of excessive alcohol on your nervous system?
This article will explore the negative effects excessive alcohol intake has on your nervous system. In my role as a nutritionist and dietician, I'm often asked how certain lifestyle decisions, like drinking, affect health. Moderation is the key to everything, but alcohol can have severe effects on our nervous system if we overindulge. Let's look at the science to see why we should be careful with our alcohol consumption.
Understanding the impact of alcohol on your nervous system is important
Both short-term as well as long-term effects of alcohol on the nervous systems are evident. Alcohol can affect mood, behaviour, coordination and reflexes in the short-term by acting on your central nervous system. Chronic and excessive alcohol consumption, however, can cause lasting harm, such as cognitive impairments and neurological disorders.
The National Institute on Alcoholism and Addiction states that heavy drinking may cause nerve damage, also known as alcohol neuropathy. This can lead to a pins and needles feeling in the extremities, as well as weakness in muscles, incontinence and constipation. Understanding the effects of alcohol on your nervous system goes beyond just gaining knowledge. It also involves preventive care.
What to watch out for when you start:
It's important to know the guidelines when it comes to alcohol consumption. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, moderate drinking is defined as one drink for women and two for men per day. Heavy drinking is defined as consuming more than this amount regularly. This can have harmful effects to the nervous system.
Be aware of signs that alcohol may cause neurological problems. Memory problems, walking difficulties, mood changes, or behavioral issues can all be symptoms. It's important to consult a doctor as soon as you can if you experience any of these symptoms.
Alcohol and the Nervous System: Effects of excessive alcohol consumption
- Brain disorders: Heavy drinking and chronic alcohol consumption can cause Wernicke Korsakoff syndrome, which is a brain disorder caused by thiamine deficiency (vitamin B1).
- Research has shown that heavy drinking over a long period of time can affect cognitive functions, including memory, concentration, and problem solving abilities.
- As previously mentioned, alcoholic neuropathy can lead to various complications ranging from muscular weakness to erectile malfunction.
- Changes in behavior and mood: Alcohol affects the neurotransmitters of the brain. This can cause changes in behaviour and mood and contribute to mental disorders such as depression and anxiety.
- Alcohol is a sleep disruptor. It can cause insomnia, and even other sleep disorders.
More Tips and Suggestions
You can do something if you are concerned about the impact of alcohol on your nervous system. Consider reducing your alcohol consumption in accordance with CDC recommendations. A balanced diet and regular exercise can support your overall health including your neurological health. Getting support from professionals in the medical field, counseling, and support groups is also beneficial. It's never too early to start making changes in your life.
Conclusion
Conclusion: Excessive alcohol consumption can have a negative effect on both the physical and mental well-being. Although moderate alcohol consumption may not be harmful, heavy and chronic drinking can cause severe cognitive and neurological impairment. It's important to understand the risks involved and, if needed, take measures towards moderation. Your health is not an expenditure, but an investment.
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