What happens if you drink beer every day: Changes you won't notice immediately
What happens to the body if you drink beer every day (photo: Freepik)
A daily glass of beer may seem like an innocent habit. However, regular alcohol consumption gradually changes the functioning of the heart, liver, and brain, reports Eating Well.
Potential health impact
Sleep disruption
Although drinking beer, like other types of alcohol, creates feelings of relaxation and euphoria, alcohol intoxication can also affect brain health.
The journal Sleep Medicine Reviews states that alcohol in beer can affect the brain in a way that slows reflexes and can also disrupt balance, memory, and sleep.
Even a small dose of alcohol delays the onset of REM sleep and reduces the duration of this phase. While metabolizing alcohol, the liver becomes more active, which can lead to interrupted sleep at night.
Slowed weight loss
Every time you drink beer, it reaches the liver. The body recognizes alcohol as a toxin. So, if you are trying to lose weight, alcohol can slow down the entire fat-burning process.
The liver's function is to filter circulating blood and destroy toxic substances, including alcohol. The liver can handle a certain amount of alcohol, but if a person continues to drink, this can lead to irreversible damage.
Digestive problems
At first, alcohol is broken down in the stomach, which increases digestive juices. Alcohol can also affect the normal speed of food movement, which can lead to stomach pain, bloating, and diarrhea.
When consumed in large quantities, alcohol can cause inflammation of the intestines, gastrointestinal problems, and liver issues.
Alcohol can negatively affect gut bacteria and penetrate the mucous membrane, making the body more susceptible to diseases, including alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Dehydration
Alcohol in beer can lead to dehydration. The kidneys are responsible for regulating fluids and electrolytes, and alcohol can disrupt this process. It also affects the hormones that influence kidney function.
Nutritional value
The US Department of Agriculture reports that one 355 ml can of regular beer contains:
- Calories – 153
- Carbohydrates – 13 g
- Added sugar – 0 g
- Protein – 2 g
- Saturated fat – 0 g
- Sodium – 14 mg
- Niacin – 2 mg
- Folate – 21 mcg
Earlier, we wrote about how your body changes with proper nutrition.
