Excessive consumption of alcohol can encourage serious health risks, both mentally and physically. Although alcohol consumption is common and is often the ‘norm’ for occasions, events, and get-togethers, it is still important to live a balanced lifestyle and know your limits. It is easy for people to get carried away when drinking alcohol and many are not aware of their own consumption levels. It is a good idea to obtain an alcohol test to check on your alcohol levels.
Excessive drinking has some significant side effects. It may seem and feel harmless at the moment, but over time the risks increase. Here are some effects you should be aware of:
Disrupted Sleep Patterns
When you consume alcohol, it disrupts the biological clock as well as decreases melatonin levels (the hormone that helps us sleep). Due to the sleep disruption, people who drink alcohol before going to sleep often experience insomnia and can feel increased fatigue levels the following day. When your body does not get enough sleep, it is incapable of properly functioning. This has a domino effect on the mind functions, and physical abilities.
Stomach Irritation
Alcohol tends to irritate and damage the lining of the stomach. When the lining of the stomach is damaged, it can lead to poor digestion, nausea, ulcers, and severe stomach pain. Those who drink excessively on a daily/weekly basis will also be at risk of developing gastritis. Gastritis is a condition that means the stomach lining is inflamed and causes infection.
Liver Failure
The liver has the responsibility of flushing out all toxins that find their way into the body. It has to break down almost all of the alcohol you consume, which increases the amount of toxins present. When you drink excessive amounts of alcohol, your liver can suffer from cirrhosis, a disease caused by tissue buildup and prevents blood flow in the liver.
Pancreas Damage
The pancreas is in control of creating insulin and other chemicals that help your body break down food. Unfortunately, alcohol can tarnish this procedure and cause toxins to stay in the pancreas. When increased levels of toxins are present in this organ for a long period of time, it runs the risk of pancreatic cancer.
Damage To The Brain
Your brain can also be heavily affected when too much alcohol is regularly consumed. Heavy drinkers are at risk of killing their brain cells, leading to shrinkage. Your cells will start to diminish and will have a direct effect on memory, the ability to think, concentrate, make decisions, and absorb information.
Final Words
It is important to live a balanced lifestyle and be aware of your body’s tolerance for alcohol. Drinking in moderation still has the ability to pose some health risks, however, if you are aware of how much you are drinking, what your body can handle, and when to stop, this is the safest way to enjoy drinking. An alcohol test can be obtained from your GP, a private provider, and home testing kits are available to buy online now.
