Impact of alcohol on aging

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The impact of alcohol on aging is multifaceted. Evidence shows that alcohol consumption can cause both accelerated aging – in which symptoms of aging appear earlier than normal – and exaggerated aging, in which the symptoms appear at the appropriate time but in a more exaggerated form.[1]

[edit] Brain

Alcohol is a potent neurotoxin.[2] The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has found, "Alcoholism may accelerate normal aging or cause premature aging of the brain."[3] Another report by the same agency found, "Chronic alcohol consumption, as well as chronic glucocorticoid exposure, can result in premature and/or exaggerated aging." Specifically, alcohol activates the HPA axis, causing glucocorticoid secretion and thus elevating levels of stress hormones in the body. Chronic exposure to these hormones results in an acceleration of the aging process, which is associated with "gradual, but often dramatic, changes over time in almost every physiological system in the human body. Combined, these changes result in decreased efficiency and resiliency of physiological function." Chronic stress and chronic heavy alcohol use cause a similar premature aging effect, including nerve cell degeneration in the hippocampus.[1] Non-alcoholics tend to be faster and quicker in cognitive abilities than alcoholics of the same age.[4]

[edit] Skin

Alcohol causes effects on the skin that resemble those of aging. Over time, alcohol can permanently damage blood vessels in the skin, causing the alcohol consumer to appear flushed.[5] Alcohol dehydrates the skin and can cause a dull complexion.[6] Alcohol is also a source of free radicals.[7] Alcohol dilates the blood vessel in the skin which leads to sagging of the skin and wrinkling. Excessive alcohol intake worsens acne and leads to skin rashes, red spots and itchiness. Alcohol makes skin appear blotchy and destroys the body supply of vitamin A. Drinking too much can also interrupt one's sleep, causing a tired look.[8]

[edit] References

  1. ^ a b http://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/arh23-4/272-283.pdf
  2. ^ Thomas P. Beresford, Edith Lisansky Gomberg, Edith S. Gomberg. Alcohol and Aging, 85. 
  3. ^ Alcohol and Aging - Alcohol Alert No. 40-1998
  4. ^ Alcohol and its effects
  5. ^ http://www.sixwise.com/newsletters/06/04/26/why_your_face_ages_and_how_to_avoid_premature_aging.htm
  6. ^ how to prevent premature skin aging
  7. ^ The 4 Causes of Sickness, Disease and Premature Aging
  8. ^ Six Things That Make Us Look Older in Beauty Tips and Make up Tips