How Alcohol Affects The Body As We Age
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As we age, our bodies undergo various changes, and some of these changes can be influenced by our lifestyle choices. One such lifestyle choice is alcohol consumption. While moderate drinking may have seemingly minimal effects on younger adults, the impact of alcohol on the ageing body deserves closer attention.
Slowed Metabolism
As we get older, our metabolism naturally slows down. Alcohol exacerbates this slowdown, affecting the liver's ability to process alcohol efficiently. When alcohol is consumed, the body prioritises metabolising it before any other macronutrients. This means that the body may store excess fat from other foods while focusing on breaking down alcohol. The stored fat contributes to weight gain over time.
Muscle Mass & Bone Density
From the age of 30 or 40, individuals may lose about 3% to 5% of their muscle mass per decade whereas bone density decreases by about 1-2% per year after 50. Alcohol can interfere with nutrient absorption and calcium balance, potentially accelerating bone loss and muscle wasting. This raises concerns about conditions like osteoporosis, sarcopenia and limited mobility.
Skin Ageing
Alcohol is a diuretic, contributing to dehydration. Chronic dehydration can lead to dry skin, premature aging, and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. As we age, our skin's ability to retain moisture decreases, making it crucial to limit alcohol consumption to maintain vibrant, healthy and youthful skin.
While drinking alcohol may have social benefits, it's essential to be mindful of how alcohol affects the bodies as we age to make informed and mature decisions surrounding alcohol consumption.
Thankfully, there are a variety of delicious non-alcoholic beverages on the market today. Some highlights are:
Seedlip Garden, Grove or Spice
Lyre’s Spiced Rum Style or Bourbon Style
Terps & Co Vodka-vibe, Tequila-style or Gin-like
