In episode 22 of the Anti-Aging Lifestyle I give you my take on the pros and cons of drinking alcohol. Do the potential benefits outweigh the risks? All this and more!
Some highlights from the episode:
Introduction: Alcohol is a part of our culture. It’s associated with social activities and fun.
Potential Pros of Moderate Consumption (1-2 drinks max daily)
Heart Health: Associated with reduced risk of heart disease, increased HDL cholesterol, lower LDL cholesterol.
Diabetes Risk: Linked to lower average blood glucose levels.
Brain Health: Increases blood flow to the brain, potentially decreases risk of dementia and strokes.
Prevents Gallstones: Shown to reduce likelihood of cholesterol buildup in the gallbladder.
Lowest Mortality: Light/moderate drinkers had lower overall mortality rates compared to nondrinkers.
Cons of Heavy to Binge Drinking (3+ drinks a day)
Cancer Risk: Increases risk of cancer for anything the alcohol touches, mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, colon, even breast cancers.
Heart damage: Damages heart muscles and arteries, increases blood pressure.
Liver disease: Leads to permanent liver damage, hepatitis and cirrhosis, increased inflammation.
Depression/Suicide: Increases the risk of depression, negative thoughts, and increases suicide risk.
Sleep Disruption: Guaranteed to decrease the amount of time you spend in deep sleep.
Kills Masculinity: Decreases testosterone, increases cortisol, increases conversion of testosterone to estrogen.
Destroys Body Composition: Damages your metabolism, stimulates hunger and reduces will power. Increases fat storage on the belly.
Skin damage: Dehydrates your skin, deprives it of important vitamins and minerals.
Conclusion: Associated vs causation, hard to tell if moderate alcohol actually increases health, or just associated with overall healthier individuals. Do not start drinking or increase drinking in an attempt to increase your health.
I finish the episode with Tomko Tip #22 where I talk about the definition of true intelligence and how it applies to achieving your goals in life.
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