Alcohol: Good or Bad?
Reminders during Covid
Alcohol. Good or Bad?
Since there are fewer reasons NOT to drink while we are stuck at home, we thought we would review some Alcohol pointers.
For those that like to indulge in a few drinks here and there, here are some things to think about when consuming alcohol.
Most alcohol is metabolized by your stomach and liver, some can be cleared by your gut. Ever feel bloated when drinking too much alcohol?
The more you drink the more pressure you put on your gut to process the alcohol.
Beer belly is real.
Gut Metabolism of alcohol produces free radicals that can damage the cells of the GI Tract.
This can also lead to changes in your microbiome. Having a healthy microbiome has been tied to weight loss and even better sleep.
Research does suggest even in moderation, meaning 1 drink for women and 2 for men (per the American Heart Association), can impair immunity through various mechanisms.
Ever have a few drinks and instead of the fun version of yourself you had in mind, you get really tired instead??
Some may feel like they get the best sleep of their life after having one too many but in reality, the quality of sleep is reduced. This, on top of other obvious reasons, is why you don’t feel all that great the next day.
It can also lead to dehydration even though you’re consuming a liquid.
Sounds like a lot of bad stuff here…. am I right?
Well, there may be some light at the end of this tunnel.
Mayo Clinic suggests that moderate alcohol consumption may provide some health benefits!
What? You mean it can be healthy?
Health benefits can include reducing the risk of developing and dying of heart disease, reducing your risk of ischemic stroke and possibly reducing your risk of diabetes.
Ok…I honestly don’t know what to think here.
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, drinking is considered to be in the moderate or low-risk range for women at no more than three drinks in any one day and no more than seven drinks per week. For men, it is no more than four drinks a day and no more than 14 drinks per week. (Should be more than enough)
Just like our food, there are better health options for alcohol as well.
- Stay away from high sugar drinks. Simple is better.
- Tequila and Red wine are generally accepted as the "Healthiest"
Bottom line is; If you want to drink…drink in moderation and most importantly drink responsibly.
We are also, in NO way, advising you to begin drinking for any health benefits!
Last, ALWAYS be respectful to those that are recovering from alcoholism.
We are in the business of health but we also understand that restricting your body of some guilty pleasures, regardless if its alcohol or sugary treats, can sometimes add stress and cause you to take a slight detour off your road to success. If you need any help getting back on track, let your coach know!
Cheers!
Coach Chris