
Moderate Drinking is OK, But Overdrinking Will Come Back to Haunt You
Most doctors agree that there’s no harm in having a glass of wine with dinner or an occasional cocktail. Alcohol consumption is fine in moderation, but excessive or binge drinking can cause serious health issues. Like smoking, alcohol has different health effects on women and men. Women generally metabolize alcohol slower than men, which means a smaller amount of alcohol can have a more pronounced effect.
Drinking too much impairs the function of the heart and brain. Both of these impacts happen faster and with less alcohol consumption in women than men. Women are at a higher risk of severe liver disease from heavy drinking. Alcohol consumption is also linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and several other cancers. Drinking can make existing health conditions like diabetes or insomnia worse.