Neurologists warn of habit that ages the brain faster

ANDthere are certain habits that may eventually affect the health of your brain. In this case, there is one in particular that neurologists point to as a habit that ages the brain faster. Is it something you do regularly?

To EatingWell several neurologists point out that drinking alcohol may be impairing their cognitive function. In this case, it is about regular consumption and not that drink that you sometimes only drink on the weekend, for example.

How does alcohol affect the health of the brain?

“A habit that many people underestimate, but that can silently harm healthy aging of the brain, is regular alcohol consumption, especially nighttime consumption, excessive alcohol consumption or alcohol use to relax or deal with stress” begins by saying Lynette Gogol.

“Alcohol is a neurotoxin, which means it can negatively affect the function of brain cells, white matter pathways that bind to different parts of the brain and ultimately to the very size of the brain,” says Zack Ramilevich.

They also point out that alcohol consumption is usually more accepted than tobacco, but the effects on the brain can be equally harmful.

On the other hand, experts point out some of the reasons alcohol can affect brain health. Firstly, they say that it interrupts sleep. “Alcohol can fragment sleep, reduce its quality, interfere with REM sleep and worsen snoring or sleep apnea in more susceptible people,” says Lynette Gogol.

It can also affect the way brain cells communicate. “Alcohol can affect the structure and communication networks of the brain. Neuroimaging studies show that excessive alcohol consumption is associated with a lower volume of the brain.”

Alcohol: Less nutrients and more inflammation 

It still affects them blood vessels. “Anything that harms vascular health can also affect cognitive resilience over time. Cognitive resilience helps promote healthy brain aging,” continues Lynette Gogol.

The expert also points out that it may end up exhaust vital nutrients for the health of the brain. At EatingWell, specialist Adam Mednick points out that alcohol eventually lowers the levels of vitamin B12, vitamins B, thiamine, and folate. “These nutrients play several important roles in brain health, including the production of neurotransmitters,” he said.

O increased inflammation it is another problem that may be associated with alcohol consumption in a regular way. “Over time, chronic inflammation can damage neurons and reduce the volume of the brain, thus making it less resistant as it ages,” continues Lynette Gogol.