Benefits of alcoholic beverages (and possible risks)

Although excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages can lead to the development of various types of health problems, conscious and moderate consumption can bring some health benefits, especially in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, reducing cholesterol levels and improving circulation. blood.

In addition to being good for your physical health, conscious alcohol consumption can also contribute to a more active social life, which ends up having a positive impact on mental health and can even reduce the chances of depression.

However, it is always necessary to remember that alcoholic beverages must be consumed responsibly to avoid the serious harm that improper consumption can cause. See the effects of excessive alcohol consumption on the body.

Main benefits

The benefits of alcoholic beverages vary depending on the type of drink, and include:

1. Beer

Beer is a fermented malt drink that is rich in antioxidants that prevent cardiovascular diseases, and in B vitamins that work to improve metabolism, memory, the appearance of skin and nails and combat fatigue.

Furthermore, beer improves bowel function and is rich in magnesium, which promotes muscle relaxation and reduces tension.

Ideal amount per day: daily beer consumption by women should not exceed 350 mL, or 1 can of beer. Men, on the other hand, should not drink more than 700 mL per day, or 2 cans of beer. Understand what it is and see all the benefits of beer malt.

2. Caipirinha

The cachaça present in caipirinha is rich in antioxidants that protect the heart and combat high cholesterol, as well as anticoagulants, substances that improve blood circulation and prevent stroke and thrombosis.

The longer it is aged, the greater the benefits of the cachaça, and together with the caipirinha fruits they form a drink full of antioxidants that protect your health.

Ideal amount per day: 2 doses (88 mL) for men and 1 dose (44 mL) for women, of distilled alcohol with an alcohol content of up to 40%.

3. Red wine

Red wine is rich in resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant that prevents heart disease, thrombosis, stroke, improves blood circulation and reduces high cholesterol. According to several studies, people who drink at least one glass of wine a day live longer and healthier lives.

Ideal amount per day: 296 mL for men and 148 mL for women, of wine with an alcohol content of up to 12%.

Amount of alcohol and calories in drinks

The maximum amount of alcohol that should be consumed per day to obtain the benefits of the drinks is approximately 30 g. Therefore, the following table describes the amount of alcohol in each of the drinks listed above, as well as the number of calories:

Risks of excess alcohol

Despite the benefits obtained from moderate daily alcohol consumption, excessive alcohol consumption is linked to an increase in problems such as cancer, cardiovascular, neurological and gastrointestinal diseases. See what diseases are caused by alcohol.

Those who have difficulty consuming just 1 or 2 glasses of alcohol per day can choose to take medications that help them stop drinking, such as Antiethanol and Revia, which must be taken according to medical advice. In addition, you can also seek help in AA groups, Alcoholics Anonymous, which help treat addiction and overcome social and family problems caused by drinking.

It is also important to remember that after consuming alcohol, even in small quantities, you should not drive. In the breathalyzer test, for example, the maximum permitted alcohol limit is 0.05 mg, which can already be detected after consuming just 1 piece of liquor, for example.