Alcohol shrinks the brain and accelerates its aging even with inconsistent consumption, says Sven Andreasson, professor emeritus of social medicine at the Karolinska Institute and one of the authors of a report on the effects of alcohol consumption on the brain by a international research team. , the TT news agency reported on February 22.
The report analyzes a series of studies. One finding is that drinking alcohol accelerates the natural shrinkage of the brain that occurs as we age. The effects of severe alcohol addiction on the brain have been known for a long time. But now research shows that alcohol, even in small amounts, causes premature aging of the brain. The more alcohol a person drinks throughout their life, the more their brain shrinks.
“We now see this effect even with moderate alcohol consumption, five to six glasses per week. Squeezing affects everything from memory and problem solving to motor skills and balance. “Although these are isolated effects in everyday life, they are evident in the tests.”Andreasson explained.
Alcohol affects most brain structures both in the short and long term. Few people associate alcohol consumption among adolescents with dementia. But because the brains of teenagers and young adults are actively developing, they are especially sensitive to alcohol, especially in large amounts at one time.
“Drinking in adolescence not only leaves a mark on the brain and increases the risk of alcohol addiction. It is also the most important risk factor for early dementia.”Andreasson highlights.
According to the report, there is no safe level of alcohol consumption for pregnant women. Alcohol exposure can have serious negative effects on fetal brain development.
According to researchers, there is also a strong link between alcohol and depression in adults. More and more research indicates that alcohol causes depression and not the other way around. Additionally, alcohol contributes to anxiety and suicide.
Source: Rossa Primavera
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