Drinking Less Alcohol Can Help You Age Well

How to Cut Down Your Alcohol Intake

A drunkard is like a whiskey-bottle, all neck and belly and no head. AUSTIN O'MALLEY on alcohol, Keystones of Thought

Alcohol is a drug that depresses the brain. Initially drinking might give some relief from anxiety or help us forget our problems, or if we are shy, help us interact better socially. However, drinking too much can have the opposite effect, causing or aggravating depression. Losing one’s inhibitions can also lead to problems. Driving under the influence is one of the number one causes of road accidents and drunken individuals are more likely to be involved in other forms of anti-social or violent behaviour.

Drinking can increase desire and enhance enjoyment of sex, but in addition to the hangover, you might wake up regretting your choice of partner or worse still having taken risks that could lead to unwanted pregnancy or a sexually transmitted disease. Drinking can also lead to impotency in men.

While drinking initially makes you tolerant and good-humoured in certain individuals it can make people argumentative or even violent. Alcoholism can lead to behaviour that causes marriage breakdowns or loss of friendships.

Good versus Bad Dietory Effects

If you are watching your weight, it is also a good idea to cut down on your intake, as all these beverages are very fattening, containing loads of calories and virtually no nutrients.

Cutting Down

Try and identify what triggers your desire to drink and avoid or learn how to deal with these in an alternative manner. Set yourself a limit each week and stick to it. Don't be shy about saying no and asking for an alternative. Try spritzers - if you are offered white wine, dilute it with sparkling water for a refreshing change.

Tell your partner or your family and friends that you have decided to cut down and ask for their help. If you are at a party sip your drink and watch if people are topping you up as it is very easy to drink more than you intended if the host is being generous with the wine. Ask for water and drink this for your thirst. Some tips on how to cut down on your alcohol intake

Alcohol Dependence

Drinking to access can cause high blood pressure or heart problems. It could eventually lead to liver problems such as cirrhosis of the liver and many difference forms of cancer in the digestive system.

If you find that you are becoming dependent, it is very important to seek medical help, as this is a problem that it is difficult to control on your own.

Although it is imperative to have the will to stop, the help of a therepist and support from family and friends is essential for success.

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