There are many myths and misconceptions associated with the benefits of alcohol. In fact, doctors and scientists urge not to flatter themselves on the usefulness of alcohol, especially in large quantities. In today's selection we will debunk Top 10 Alcohol Myths.
By the way, the standard of “fiery water” recommended by the World Health Organization is not so small - no more than 2 liters of pure alcohol per year, i.e. about a bottle of light wine per week.
10. Vodka - a cure for colds and flu
For many, vodka with pepper is a favorite recipe at the first sign of a cold. However, scientists argue that strong alcohol is not able to improve the functioning of the immune system, and such experiments are completely dangerous for a sore throat. After all, vodka and even pepper irritates the mucous membrane.
9. Alcohol helps keep you warm quickly
Therefore, alcoholic drinks are often called strong drinks. Indeed, 50 grams of cognac or vodka can expand blood vessels and improve blood circulation in the body. But everything above this dose gives the opposite effect. Dilated vessels, including those near the surface of the skin, enhance heat transfer, and the body quickly loses heat.
8. Alcohol is good to drink before eating for appetite
A glass of “for appetite” is 25-30 grams of vodka, not more. This amount helps activate the saturation center in the brain. True, the effect will come only after 20-30 minutes, and few will wait so long before the meal. Yes, and doctors urge not to pour alcohol into the empty stomach, which aggressively affects the mucous membrane.
7. Quality alcohol is harmless
Without exception, all alcoholic beverages have a toxic effect on the body. Of course, low-quality alcohol does much more harm, as it often contains fusel oils, which repeatedly increase intoxication. Of course, you need to choose good alcohol, but you should not say that it is harmless.
6. Alcohol protects against radiation
Scientists have proven that alcohol reduces the barrier function of all tissues in the body, thereby increasing the dose of radiation that penetrates the body. Everyone has heard about the use of red wine to remove radionuclides from the body. However, for these purposes, doctors strongly recommend green tea.
5. Beer is less harmful than vodka.
Any alcohol-containing drink causes harm to health if consumed in large quantities. Sociologists in many countries claim that beer lovers ultimately consume even more ethyl alcohol than those who prefer strong drinks. This is explained by the affordability of the “foamy drink” in comparison with vodka, cognac and whiskey.
4. Alcohol is not calorie
This common myth is often repeated by fans of all kinds of diets. Meanwhile, the energy value of 100 grams of vodka is more than 200 Kcal. Moreover, it is difficult for the body to burn these calories, since they are brought only through alcohol. It is easier to get rid of wine calories, because the calorie content of this drink is partially due to the presence of carbohydrates.
3. Alcohol relieves stress
Very often in stressful situations, we resort to the help of alcohol to relax and relieve stress. Doctors say that 20-30 ml of vodka or 50 ml of wine have a therapeutic effect. Large doses can either aggravate the feeling of fatigue and depression, or lead to a state of artificial euphoria, followed by a deep depression with a hangover.
2. Alcohol reduces pressure
This myth is caused by an incorrect interpretation of the vasodilator action of alcohol. Indeed, alcohol lowers the tone of the vascular wall, but this does not help to lower the pressure. Indeed, at the same time, the heartbeat intensifies and blood is more actively pushed into the bloodstream, which increases pressure. Therefore, alcohol is strictly contraindicated for hypertensive patients.
1. Alcohol improves performance
Many people think that after a glass, work is arguable. However, Australian scientists have refuted this myth in practice. According to the results of a large-scale study, it was proved that even small doses of alcohol dull the reaction rate and reduce the ability to concentrate. As a result, the likelihood of errors and even injuries during work increases.
