During Alcohol Awareness Month, Alexis LaPietra, DO, FACEP, Medical Director, RWJBarnabas Health Institute for Prevention and Recovery, and Director, Addiction Medicine RWJBarnabas Health, debunks some common misconceptions when it comes to alcohol and your health.
Myth: Alcohol only hurts your liver.
Truth: Drinking can affect other parts of your body, including your heart, blood pressure, kidneys and mental health. When ingesting alcohol, it enters your bloodstream and compromises all parts of your body.
“Studies show that alcohol is the strongest modifiable risk factor for cancer after tobacco use and excess body weight,” states Dr. LaPietra. “While there is strong and consistent evidence that drinking alcohol increases the risk of developing at least six cancers, including colorectal, breast, esophageal, liver, stomach and oral cancers, most Americans are not aware of this link or that alcohol is a cause of tens of thousands of cancer cases in the U.S. every year.”
Myth: Alcohol isn’t as harmful as other drugs.
Truth: Alcohol is a highly addictive substance and, like other commonly misused substances, can slowly deteriorates one’s mental and physical health. Excessive alcohol consumption poses significant health risk as alcohol can affect the brain, liver, pancreas, heart, and other systems of the body.
“Comparing alcohol harm directly to other substances can be complex since different substances affect individuals differently and have various societal impacts,” shares Dr. LaPietra. “However, alcohol ranks among the most harmful drugs globally due to its widespread use and associated health and social consequences.”
Myth: Alcohol is a great way to relax and reduce stress.
Truth: While alcohol can initially make you feel looser and at ease, the effects don’t last long. Alcohol can actually cause more anxiety the day after. Practicing and using healthy coping skills is a better alternative to manage stress.
Dr. LaPietra explains, “Alcohol gives us this sense of relaxation by changing the neurotransmitters in our bodies and dulling them. What we think of as a relaxed state is really the toxic effects of alcohol suppressing our nervous system.”
Myth: A drink before bed can help you sleep.
Truth: You may feel that an alcoholic drink before bed helps you relax and fall asleep faster. However, alcohol inhibits deep sleep and disrupts regular sleeping patters. Overtime, it becomes difficult to re-establish a normal sleep pattern. A consistent lack of proper sleep can impact other areas of your mental and physical health.
“Sleep is an essential part of our lives and necessary for our minds and bodies to function properly. Alcohol can interfere with REM sleep, which is crucial for feeling rested and refreshed,” states Dr. LaPietra. “It’s generally better to avoid alcohol close to bedtime if you are hoping for better sleep.”
Myth: Moderate drinking is good for your health.
Truth: Drinking moderate amounts of alcohol every day does not protect against death from heart disease, nor does it contribute to a longer life. In terms of health, the less alcohol you consume, the better.
“Moderate alcohol consumption, including ‘a glass of wine a day’ may have been traditionally associated with some health benefits, but recent research suggests that the risks outweigh any potential advantages,” shares Dr. LaPietra. “Even small amounts of alcohol can increase the risk of certain cancers, liver disease, and other health problems.”