Drinking alcohol affects the body and brain in many ways. The effects of alcohol change depending on how much and how often people drink. While everyone experiences alcohol effects in different ways, it’s important to know the general effects of this drug. In some cases, having a deeper understanding may motivate people toward getting the help that they need.

Effects of Alcohol on the Body

Alcohol use really takes a toll on the body. Studies show that it affects a number of systems in the body, including:

  • Digestive system
  • Central nervous system
  • Excretory system
  • Circulatory system

All of these systems are necessary for the body to function properly. Unfortunately, alcohol can knock them out of sync and disrupt their functions. Over time, alcohol can cause a number of serious health problems because these systems function poorly.

In terms of digestion, alcohol causes inflammation of the pancreas. The inflammation hinders the ability of the organ to regulate metabolism and aid digestion. Alcohol can damage the digestive system, causing abdominal fullness, gassiness or even diarrhea.

The drug also makes it hard for the digestive tract to absorb vitamin B and control bacteria. Because of an inability to absorb certain nutrients, many alcoholics suffer from malnutrition. Alcoholics run the risk of developing throat, esophageal, and mouth cancer as well.

Sexual and Reproductive Health

Alcohol inhibits hormone production in men, which can lead to both erectile dysfunction as well as testicular issues.

Women aren’t safe from the effects of this drug either. Studies show that women who drink heavily may stop menstruating because they become less fertile than women who don’t.

Shrinking Frontal Lobes

Although most people think that alcohol only impacts the body, it has dangerous psychological effects too. Alcohol travels quickly through the body and into the brain. Over time, it shrinks the frontal lobe, causing slurred speech and dizziness.

Shrinking frontal lobes cause a number of other problems as well. People often find it harder to talk and concentrate. Damage to this area of the brain also causes memory loss and confusion over time.

Don’t Let Alcohol Ruin Your Body and Mind

While people think of drinking as a social event, the effects of alcohol on the body and brain are real. Now that you know what alcohol addiction does to the body, you know how important it is to get help for alcohol abuse or addiction. At 1st Step Behavioral Health, we provide substance abuse programs to help you overcome alcoholism. Some of the different programs that we offer include:

Fight back against your addiction, and start a new life. Don’t let the fear of failure keep you from getting help. Contact 1st Step Behavioral Health today at (855) 425-4846 for more information.

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