Scientists from the University of New South Wales have identified three ages at which alcohol consumption affects the human body the worst. The results of the relevant study are published on The British Medical Journal.
It is noted that the human brain goes through dynamic changes throughout life. At different times, it becomes less resistant to the toxic effects of alcohol. As a result, serious changes can occur in the organ.
The first dangerous age is the period when the child is in the womb. Alcohol use by the mother can lead to a decrease in fetal brain volume, cognitive impairment and psychological impairment. The second dangerous age is from 15 to 19 years. At this time, alcohol consumption is fraught with a decrease in the volume of the neocortex, a weakening of the white matter and, as a result, a deficit in cognitive functions.
Finally, drinking alcohol is dangerous in old age as it can contribute to the development of dementia. At the same time, the authors of the study emphasize that even moderate doses of alcohol can be dangerous.
Earlier, British scientists determined a harmless dose of alcohol during self-isolation. They recommended drinking no more than 112 grams of alcohol per week – in terms of the usual drinks, this is about seven glasses of beer or 50 gram shots of spirits.