Physical Effects of Alcohol on Men
Men who indulge in too much alcohol or drink it on a regular basis may incur health-related consequences. Depending on the quantity and frequency of consumption, symptoms can be as minimal as weight gain or as severe as impotence. Drinking typically also impairs judgment, affects organs and causes overall changes in behavior.
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Deadly Consequences
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In 2001, approximately 75,000 deaths were attributed to overindulgence in alcohol. Excessive drinking itself can lead to other events including automobile accidents, suicide or simply drinking oneself to death.(Interior body breakdown, including liver disease, and internal bleeding are some results when alcohol is consistently abused over the long term in extreme quantities. Death may be the outcome in some cases after a person's body has become internally impaired.)
Impairment of the Liver
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Too much alcohol can decrease liver function. The liver is the organ with the tough job of eliminating wastes from the body. A person's liver is able to withstand some invaders here and there, including a daily drink, but excessive amounts can cause serious consequences and overload this vital organ, limiting its ability to function. Cirrhosis of the liver is an irreversible condition that can result from consistent, long-term alcohol abuse.
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Sexual Consequences of Too Much Alcohol
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Some men have a misconception that excessive drinking is a macho thing. Yet it increases estrogen levels in men, which will change a man's mood and also bring out female attributes, including enlarged breasts. Excessive alcohol consumption may cause impotence or infertility in men, since it lowers sperm production.
Additionally, since inhibitions tend to be lowered from too much alcohol, promiscuity and unprotected sex can be its byproducts. Some results of unprotected sex and promiscuity are sexually transmitted diseases and unexpected pregnancies.
What Amount of Alcohol Is Considered "Safe"?
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A "safe" daily amount of alcohol is 3 to 4 units; in most cases, 1 unit translates into one beverage. A single can of beer equates to approximately the daily 4-unit maximum.
For more examples, see the "Safe Alcohol Intake" link in Resources.
A Drink a Day...
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Studies have shown that one or two glasses of red wine per day can have health benefits, including lowering cholesterol and the risk of coronary disease.
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