Everyone experiences different side effects after consuming alcohol. Some people immediately feel nauseous after consuming one glass of beer, while other may be able to drink two martinis without any problems. However, recent studies have shown that gender may be a determinant in how our bodies react to alcoholic drinks, as well. Experts confirmed that men and women absorb alcohol differently due to specific factors like muscle mass, metabolism, and brain structure. So, why do women and men have different reactions?
Metabolism and Absorption
Medical studies have proven that female bodies contain lower concentrations of water and higher percentages of fat than male bodies, meaning that women retain larger quantities of alcohol in their bloodstreams than men. Likewise, women experienced higher BAC (blood-alcohol content) than their male counterparts after both groups consumed the same quantities of alcohol. Related studies have also proven that, as a result of these factors, women may be more susceptible to liver damage and emotional problems after excessive drinking.
Impact on the Brain
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) tests have also revealed that males are less at risk for alcohol-induced brain damage than women. A region of the brain responsible for primary body functions (including metabolic processing) was confirmed to be smaller in female patients than males. Nevertheless, scientists have reinforced the fact that, in terms of reasoning capability, women are less likely to abuse alcohol for long periods than men.
Menstrual Cycle: A Natural Part of Womanhood
Perhaps the most important factor to consider in this discussion is the female body’s uniqueness. Additional research has proven that women will react differently to alcohol depending on their internal clock, or the calendar of their menstrual cycle. Hormones like estrogen and progesterone can greatly influence the metabolic processing of alcoholic beverages. For example, a past study may have confirmed that women who consumed alcohol during the premenstrual phase experienced relatively higher BACs than other test groups.
Regardless of gender, alcohol is a potentially dangerous chemical that should not be consumed in abundance. Addiction and abuse are just a glass of wine or a shot of whiskey away.
Remember that alcohol does not have control over your life. You do. If you are suffering from addiction or abuse or have a friend or family member suffering from these illnesses, get in touch with Asana Recovery. Counselors and healthcare experts can walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and help guide you to a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While it might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to keep you and your unborn child 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 addiction troubles today.
