Last week I talked about carbs and how not all carbs are bad. This week I want you to learn about alcohol. We will cover the good and the bad parts about alcohol.
What is Alcohol?
Alcohol is derived from fermented fruits, vegetables, and grains. When fermented, these products create ethanol. When we refer to alcoholic beverages we are talking about the ethanol content.
So alcohol comes from carbs. It is also a psychoactive chemical.
Alcohol's Effect on Your Body
Alcohol diminishes communication with your brain. When drinking in excess, blackout drunk, means that your brain is not communicating with itself. Although this is usually temporary, long time abuse of alcohol can lead to permanent damage.
Alcohol is only beaten by fat in calories per gram (7 verses 9). A can of beer is calorically similar to the same amount of soda (Wine is twice as much as soda; ounce for ounce). Although high in calories, studies related to weight gain have been inconclusive.
Heart health can be affected positively with light drinking, but heavy drinking can damage the heart.
Alcohol has been shown to be a risk factor in cancers of the mouth, throat, liver, colon, and breast. 1 drink per day has shown a 20% increase in mouth and throat cancer risk.
Positive Effects of Alcohol
Used in moderation alcohol has some positive effects.
Light drinking can reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes
Moderate drinkers have lower risk of Type II Diabetes and gallstones
A drink before eating can improve digestion
Drinking light to moderately with friends can reduce stress
This blog is meant to inform you about the effects of alcohol, not to recommend its use. If you are concerned about your use of alcohol you should reach out to your physician or an alcohol counselor.
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