While consumption of alcohol in social events or rarely and in moderation may not be harmful for men’s health, too much and regular intake of alcohol can have a devastating effect on men’s health in many ways. According to Evan Bass Men’s Clinic, habitual and excessive drinking can impact men’s overall well-being in different ways, physically, mentally, and socially. Understanding these effects helps men make informed lifestyle choices.
Impact on the Liver
Consuming too much alcohol can primarily have an impact on liver health. Heavy drinking over time can cause fatty liver, hepatitis, and even deadly cirrhosis of the liver. Typically, all these issues are destructive and lessen the ability of the liver to process toxins. Damage to the liver can also inhibit the ability of the digestive system to work as it should, leading to fatigue and lack of energy.
Heart and Circulatory Health
Drinking alcohol habitually and heavily, also known as alcohol addiction, can strain the heart and the blood vessels. Heavy drinkers mostly struggle with high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and carry a heightened risk of stroke. Drinking in the long term also worsens the heart muscle, causing cardiomyopathy. Moderation is the only way to protect heart health.
Hormonal Changes
Consuming alcohol in the long term and excessive amounts typically upsets the normal hormonal balance in males. In due course, it can lead to a decline in testosterone levels. Consequently, lower testosterone balance can result in fatigue, lack of focus, cognitive impairment, and low libido. Hormonal imbalance has a deep relation to sexual health, can lead to erectile dysfunction, and contribute to infertility.
Mental Health Issues
Being a depressant, alcohol can have a major impact on the brain and mood when consumed frequently and in excessive amounts. Typically, those alcohol addictive men can experience anxiety, depression, or memory impairment. Such mental health issues tend to affect relationships and job performance.
Digestive System Issues
Regular drinking bothers the lining of the stomach and causes ulcers or acid reflux. Alcohol also disrupts nutrient absorption. This results in deficiencies of vitamins and minerals necessary for health. Poor digestion compromises immunity and energy levels with time.
Increased Risk of Cancer
Studies indicate that chronic drinking increases the risk of various cancers. Heavily drinking men are at higher risk of getting cancers of the liver, throat, esophagus, and colon. Even moderate drinking can lead to increased risk of certain cancers when matched with smoking or an unhealthy diet.
Weight and Metabolism
Alcohol has zero calories and decreases metabolism. Drinking regularly by men might add pounds, particularly around the belly. This sort of fat is associated with heart disease and diabetes. Blood sugar levels are also affected by alcohol, contributing to insulin resistance with prolonged use.
Sleep and Energy Levels
Though alcohol might help men to sleep faster, it lowers sleep quality. Chronic drinking interferes with the normal sleep pattern, making men drowsy and cranky. Poor sleep also affects concentration, productivity, and temper.
Social and Lifestyle Impacts
Apart from physical well-being, alcohol affects lifestyle and relationships. Gradually, dependency can result in workplace issues, domestic conflict, and economic pressure. Social impacts create more stress, which further damages overall well-being.
Alcohol impacts men’s health in various ways when drunk over the long term. In the opinion of Evan Bass Men’s Clinic, opting for moderation and a healthy lifestyle can assist men in safeguarding their well-being in the years ahead.
