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Alcoholic beverages supply calories but few or no nutrients. The
alcohol in these beverages has effects that are harmful when consumed
in excess. These effects of alcohol may alter judgment and can lead
to dependency and a great many other serious health problems. Alcoholic
beverages have been used to enhance the enjoyment of meals by many
societies throughout human history. If adults choose to drink alcoholic
beverages, they should consume them only in moderation (box 16).
Current evidence suggests that moderate drinking is associated
with a lower risk for coronary heart disease in some individuals.
However, higher levels of alcohol intake raise the risk for high
blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, certain cancers, accidents,
violence, suicides, birth defects, and overall mortality (deaths).
Too much alcohol may cause cirrhosis of the liver, inflammation
of the pancreas, and damage to the brain and heart. Heavy drinkers
also are at risk of malnutrition because alcohol contains calories
that may substitute for those in more nutritious foods.
Who should not drink?
Some people should not drink alcoholic beverages at all. These include:
- Children and adolescents.
- Individuals of any age who cannot restrict their drinking to
moderate levels.
- This is a special concern for recovering alcoholics and people
whose family members have alcohol problems.
- Women who are trying to conceive or who are pregnant. Major
birth defects, including fetal alcohol syndrome, have been attributed
to heavy drinking by the mother while pregnant. While there is
no conclusive evidence that an occasional drink is harmful to
the fetus or to the pregnant woman, a safe level of alcohol intake
during pregnancy has not been established.
- Individuals who plan to drive or take part in activities that
require attention or skill. Most people retain some alcohol in
the blood up to 2-3 hours after a single drink.
- Individuals using prescription and over-the-counter medications.
Alcohol may alter the effectiveness or toxicity of medicines.
Also, some medications may increase blood alcohol levels or increase
the adverse effect of alcohol on the brain.
ADVICE FOR TODAY
If you drink alcoholic beverages, do so in moderation, with meals,
and when consumption does not put you or others at risk.
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