In our society, alcohol is, quite literally, everywhere. It is seen as a non-negotiable part of social gatherings and celebrations, a weekly (or, for some, daily) ritual, and a source of comfort during times of stress. While moderate drinking might seem harmless or even culturally normal, the inconvenient truth is that the negative effects of alcohol on health and fitness can be significant.
Though we wholeheartedly believe that the occasional beer or glass of wine can absolutely be part of a healthy lifestyle, it’s important to understand the risks and costs associated with consuming too much alcohol – which is what we’ve provided below, along with some tips for mitigating the impact of moderate alcohol consumption on your overall health and fitness.
PHYSICAL HEALTH
Excessive alcohol consumption can cause liver inflammation, leading to fatty liver disease, hepatitis, or cirrhosis. Alcohol also weakens the body’s immune response, making you more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
Furthermore, alcohol increases risk for chronic health conditions like cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and pancreatitis. Research shows that approximately 5.3% of all global deaths can be attributed to alcohol consumption. Furthermore, the burden of alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) accounts for 5.1% of all disease and injury worldwide. (Aslam & Kwo, 2020).
MENTAL HEALTH
Alcohol is a depressant, and consuming too much of it can exacerbate mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Long-term alcohol abuse can also lead to memory problems, impaired judgment, and a higher risk of developing neurological conditions like dementia. The World Health Organization found that alcohol consumption increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, and a 2023 study by the Journal of Alcohol and Alcoholism found that “participants who increased their alcohol use had higher odds of developing mental health disorders than those who maintained their pre-pandemic drinking habits.”