Humans have been drinking fermented beverages for thousands of years, and they have also been arguing about the merits and demerits of doing so for just as long.
The debate lives on today, with a lively back-and-forth over whether alcohol is good or bad for your health. But no matter your opinion on the subject, it’s safe to say that alcohol is both a tonic and a poison.
The difference lies in the amount you consume. Past studies suggest that moderate drinking is good for the heart and may even protect against diabetes. However, heavy drinking is a major cause of death.
Heavy drinking can damage your liver and heart, harm unborn children, increase your risk of breast cancer, contribute to depression and violence, and interfere with relationships. Alcohol’s two-faced nature shouldn’t come as a surprise. The active ingredient in alcoholic drinks – ethanol – can affect the body in various ways. Read more…
