How does alcohol affect men’s health?
Alcohol consumption is deeply embedded in many cultures and is often seen as a way to socialise or relax. However, excessive drinking poses significant risks to men’s health, affecting physical, mental and reproductive wellbeing. Over time, heavy alcohol use can lead to severe health issues, including chronic diseases, hormonal imbalances, and mental health disorders. Understanding these effects and how to manage alcohol consumption is critical for long-term health and quality of life.
How much alcohol should men drink weekly?
In the UK, men and women are advised to consume no more than 14 units of alcohol per week, spread over three or more days. This guideline is equivalent to about six pints of average-strength beer or ten small glasses of wine. Drinking less is always safer, and alcohol-free days can help reduce the overall health impact. Regularly exceeding this limit increases the risk of conditions like liver disease, heart disease and certain cancers.
You may be interested in reading 'Is wine good for you?'.
Debloat & Detox
Signs of alcohol dependence
Alcohol dependence develops when drinking becomes a priority over other aspects of life. Warning signs include:
- A strong craving or compulsion to drink.
- Difficulty controlling alcohol intake.
- Withdrawal symptoms like sweating, shaking or anxiety when not drinking.
- Prioritising alcohol over responsibilities and relationships.
Recognising these signs early and seeking help is crucial to prevent further health deterioration. Discover 5 signs your liver needs a detox and the best foods for detoxing your liver.
Effects of alcohol on men
Physical impact
Excessive alcohol consumption significantly impacts men’s physical health. Long-term effects include liver damage, digestive issues, weakened immune system and risks of cancer.
Alcohol irritates the stomach lining, causing gastritis and ulcers, and increases the risk of pancreatic irritation. Frequent drinking can suppress immune function, making men more vulnerable to infections.
Chronic drinking leads to liver diseases such as fatty liver, hepatitis, and cirrhosis. Heavy drinking can also increase blood pressure, raise cholesterol levels, and contribute to arrhythmias. It is also known that alcohol is a risk factor for cancers of the mouth, throat, oesophagus, liver and bowel.
Mental health implications
The effects of alcohol can often exacerbate or trigger mental health conditions. Alcohol is a depressant that can worsen feelings of sadness and anxiety.
While alcohol may initially induce sleep, it disrupts sleep quality, leading to fatigue, poor concentration and sleep disorders. Regular use may alter brain chemistry, making it harder to control cravings. Long-term heavy drinking can impair memory, learning, and decision-making skills causing cognitive decline. Find out the worst foods for memory.
Libido and Hormones
Alcohol can also interfere with male sexual and reproductive health in several ways, from hormonal imbalances and erectile dysfunction to reduced sperm quailty and temporary libido increase.
Excessive drinking lowers testosterone levels, affecting libido, energy, and muscle mass. While alcohol might initially lower inhibitions, heavy drinking often reduces sexual performance and satisfaction. It also impairs blood flow, making it harder to achieve and maintain erections. Chronic alcohol abuse exacerbates this problem. You may be interested in reading the steps to improve your libido as you get older or the connection between the gut and erectile dysfunction.
Studies show that alcohol consumption has an impact on sperm quality. It decreases sperm count, motility, and morphology, negatively impacting fertility. Learn more about the semen microbiome or discover how sperm may impact the risk of diabetes.
Steps to reduce alcohol consumption
Reducing alcohol intake requires commitment and lifestyle adjustments. Here are actionable steps:
Lifestyle changes
Exercise: Regular physical activity reduces stress and provides a healthy alternative to drinking.
Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods supports liver health and stabilises energy levels. If you're not sure what nutrients your diet may be missing, take our free Diet Profile and find out in 3 minutes.
Supplements: Consider supplements like DR.VEGAN's Stay Calm® to manage stress, Vitamin D3 to counter deficiencies linked to alcohol use, and a Daily Multi-Vitamin to ensure adequate nutrient intake. You may be interested in trying Men's ProMulti, an all-in-one formula of active bacteria (‘probiotics’), prebiotics, botanicals, amino acids, vitamins and minerals to support the changing health needs of men over the age of 45. It is specially formulated to support prostate health, testosterone health, daily vitality and wellbeing.
Men's ProMulti
Seek professional help
If reducing alcohol consumption proves challenging, seek help:
- Book an appointment with your GP for personalised advice and resources.
- Access support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).
- Consult a therapist specialising in addiction for coping strategies and behavioural therapy.
Conclusion
While moderate alcohol consumption may have a place in social or recreational contexts, excessive or regular drinking poses severe risks to men’s health. From physical complications like liver and heart damage to mental health struggles and reproductive issues, the effects of alcohol can permeate every aspect of life. Taking proactive steps to manage alcohol consumption through lifestyle changes, professional guidance, and supplementation can lead to improved health and wellbeing. Recognising the risks early and acting accordingly ensures that men can maintain both their physical and mental health for the long-term.
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