Episode 61: The Alcohol Video
In this episode of Life after Kids with Drs. Brooke and Lynne we’re discussing the pros and cons of alcohol on the health and longevity of midlife women. We also give options for choosing smarter and healthier ways to drink alcohol
A fizzy glass of champagne in celebration, a crisp glass of white whine on a summer's day, a robust red wine with a delicious meal, a cold bottle of beer apres ski...Which do you prefer? Maybe it's no alcohol at all!
Is alcohol really all that bad for us? Doesn't it have some health benefits? What's wrong with a few glasses on the weekend? Aren't we at the age where we should be enjoying ourselves with a couple of glasses of wine with friends? There's so much conflicting information about alcoholic beverages and their effect on our overall health. Several years ago, research came out stating that a few glasses of red wine a week were actually good for your health due to the high level of antioxidants. More recent research finds that the overall effects of alcohol are detrimental to us. It's easy to want to believe the best when it comes to things we really enjoy. So in this week's episode of Life after Kids with Drs. Brooke and Lynne, we're breaking down the pros and cons of alcohol in midlife. And, we're giving our best tips for drinking smarter and in a healthier way, should you choose to indulge. Highlights from The Alcohol Video are below.
Overall, alcohol is not good for us. This doesn't mean you shouldn't enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail, but it does mean you shouldn't be drinking often, assuming it's not bad for your health
Health risks of drinking regularly include: inflammation, gut disturbances, blood sugar imbalance, and liver toxicity.
Alcohol can wreak havoc on your hormones. If you're struggling with menopause, you may want to limit alcohol or stop drinking at least for a few months to see how you feel
Many of us use alcohol at night to help us sleep better. But, alcohol actually disrupts our sleep. It may help us fall asleep faster, but it keeps us from getting the deep restful sleep that our body needs to be healthy and well.
Think of alcohol like a treat or a dessert and limit the amount you have and the frequency of which you enjoy it. Then, when you do have a drink, you'll enjoy it even more.
Choose low sugar alcohol like champagne, tequila, and vodka
Use seltzer or sparkling water with fresh squeezed lemon, lime or a few berries in lieu of fruit juices and sodas
Try a hard cider instead of beer.
Drink earlier in the day, a minimum of 3-4 hours before bed. Your body will have a chance to metabolize the alcohol so you sleep won't be disrupted
Always eat something when you have a drink so your blood sugar isn't thrown off