When to stop drinking: Age doctors say it's time to give up
Photo: At what age alcohol consumption is prohibited (Getty Images)
Although moderate alcohol consumption is part of social life for many people, neurologists and dietitians warn that after a certain age, even small amounts can become dangerous, reports the National Library of Medicine.
When alcohol should be avoided
Experts say that after a certain age, the body metabolizes alcohol more slowly, increasing its toxic effects. Even small amounts can:
- Impair coordination and increase the risk of falls
- Cause dizziness and weakness due to age-related bone fragility
- Damage neurons and worsen memory, raising the risk of dementia
- Negatively interact with medications, from blood pressure drugs to sedatives
For this reason, specialists recommend that people over 65 either completely abstain from alcohol or limit it to very rare occasions. Instead, it is beneficial to focus on a healthy diet (such as the Mediterranean diet), regular physical activity, and adequate hydration.
Alcohol and teenagers: Even a sip is risky
Doctors emphasize that alcohol is completely contraindicated for children and adolescents. Between the ages of 15 and 17, the brain is still developing, and even occasional drinking can:
- Slow brain development
- Impair memory, concentration, and learning
- Disrupt hormonal balance and emotional regulation
Moreover, being exposed to alcohol at an early age greatly raises the risk of developing an addiction later in life.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
