The Good Effects of Alcohol
Excess alcohol consumption contributes to numerous health problems, such as liver damage and sexual dysfunctions; however, when taken in moderation, alcohol also offers some health benefits. But the positive effects of alcohol do not always outweigh the consequences. While older individuals may reap the benefits of moderate drinking, the habit may only diminish the overall health of young adults.
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Stroke Prevention
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Moderate consumption of alcohol may lower your chances of experiencing a stroke. An ischemic stroke occurs when a clot forms in an artery, blocking the blood flow to the brain. Alcohol may prevent the development of those blood vessel clots
Gallstone Prevention
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Gallstones are hardened deposits of cholesterol that form in the gallbladder, causing abdominal pain. Moderate consumption of alcohol lowers your risk of gallstones by reducing the levels of cholesterol in your gallbladder's bile. On the other hand, there are many other gallstone prevention methods, such as drinking water and exercising, which bring numerous benefits for your overall health.
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Cognitive Aid
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According to the State University of New York at Potsdam, moderate drinking improves memory and promotes clear thinking. Individuals who drink in moderation experience less cognitive impairment throughout the day than those who abstain from alcohol. In addition, older adults who are light drinkers have a decreased risk of developing dementia.
Heart Disease Prevention
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Moderate drinking may reduce calcification of the arteries. Less calcium in your arteries means less chance of heart disease. In addition, moderate drinking increases your chances of surviving a heart attack by reducing the amount of damage to cardiac tissues. On the opposite end of the spectrum, excessive drinking contributes to heart disease.
Cardiovascular Disease and Type 2 Diabetes Prevention
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If you have high blood pressure, you can lower their risk of cardiovascular problems by drinking in moderation. This is especially true if you habitually abstain from alcohol. Light drinking can also decrease your chances of developing type 2 diabetes.
Bone Disease Prevention
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Moderate drinking reduces your risk of developing some forms of arthritis. Moderate drinking also increases bone density, protecting you from conditions such as osteoporosis. Too many drinks will damage your bones.
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References
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