Overall, our unique set of hormones work in a perfectly united network that ensures our bodies are healthy, strong, and fit. Functioning in unison, our hormones serve as powerful chemical messengers that coordinate proper tissue and organ function. Ultimately, when these chemicals are working up to speed, the right sequence of hormones is released at the perfect time, allowing our bodies to keep up with new changes. However, when people begin to consume alcoholic beverages, this perfect equilibrium is instantly disrupted and thrown into an unbalanced mess. Drinking these substances can ultimately put a damper on glands that control the release of hormones and damage tissue that is repaired or soothed by hormones. Particularly severe health problems stemming from alcohol-induced hormone disruption include appetite changes, metabolic errors, and osteoporosis. Let’s take a closer look at the effects of alcohol on normal hormonal function in more details now.
Blood Sugar Problems
Ultimately, sugar glucose (or glucose) is the most important source of energy for all tissues in our bodies. Drawn from food or normal biological processes in our systems, blood sugar is controlled by two chemicals called insulin and glucagon (secreted by the pancreas), which regulate glucose at just the right level that prevent us from passing out or suffering from brain damage. However, if a person consumes alcohol, blood sugar immediately flies into a tailspin. Here are the ways this substance inhibits our normal glucose levels:
- Limited glucose intake (due to poor eating and drinking)
- Impedes glucose production (during the metabolizing of alcohol)
- Puts a damper on insulin secretion (causing hypoglycemia temporarily)
- Inhibits hormonal responses to low insulin levels
Poor Reproductive Function
A large quantity of hormones in our bodies also regulates our reproductive system. The two main types (androgens and estrogens) are synthesized in organs called the testes and ovaries, respectively, and are solely responsible for controlling reproductive capabilities and functions. For men, these hormones control sexual maturity, fertility (including sperm count), and male behavior. For women, these hormones are responsible for controlling the development of secondary sexual aspects, breasts, body hair, and menstrual cycle and manipulate the course of pregnancy. Ultimately, excessive alcohol consumption will interfere with every one of these functions.
Always remember that alcohol does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your alcohol abuse or addiction troubles today.
