While many people associate alcohol with relaxation and socializing, it's essential to know that alcohol is a depressant, which means it can slow down your central nervous system, leading to reduced cognitive and motor function.
Alcohol is relatively high in calories. It contains 7 calories per gram, which is more than carbohydrates and protein (4 calories per gram) and close to the calorie content of fat (9 calories per gram). Drinking in excess can contribute to weight gain.
Different types of alcoholic beverages have varying alcohol content. Beer typically contains 3-12% alcohol, wine ranges from 12-15%, and spirits (e.g., vodka, whiskey) can be 40% alcohol or more.
Your BAC is a measure of the amount of alcohol in your bloodstream. It varies based on the number of drinks you've consumed, your body weight, and other factors.
Alcohol can interact with various medications, potentially reducing their effectiveness or causing harmful side effects.
While alcohol can make you feel drowsy and help you fall asleep more easily, it disrupts the sleep cycle, leading to poorer sleep quality and less restorative rest.
Prolonged and heavy alcohol use can lead to changes in the brain's structure and function, affecting decision-making, mood, and cognitive abilities.