CNN reports that a new study may have confirmed one of our biggest fears. No, Scott Disick isn’t dating your younger sister—moderate drinking could negatively impact your brain health over time. Say it ain’t so!
In a recent study, which was published in the BMJ last week, researchers observed the alcohol intake of the Whitehall II study’s participants. The Whitehall II study is a long-term study that has looked at the stress and health of several participants over the last 30 years.
During the study, researchers found that people who drank more often have a greater risk of brain damage, and therefore could be more susceptible to developing neurological disorders associated with memory loss (such as Alzheimer’s and dementia). Yikes. It might be time to cut back on that wine with dinner, even if an occasional glass of wine could help your heart’s health.
The Guardian explains that these study participants didn’t have any form of alcohol dependence, and the amount of alcohol each of the participants consumed varied from person to person. Regardless, the researchers found that those who drank more units of alcohol each week were more likely to experience shrinkage on the right side of the hippocampus, which can account for issues with processing long-term memory.
Don’t worry, you don’t need to spit out your sangria just yet! To prevent yourself from losing your cherished memories later in life, you just need to focus on drinking in moderation. After all, drinking in excess is never good for your body or your judgement, and that’s just science.
According to the Whitehall II researchers, you just need to focus on drinking 14 units of alcohol or less each week and you could have a better chance of combating Alzheimer’s and dementia. If you’re like most people and only know how to measure you alcohol in shots and pints, The Independent can help you convert your favorite drinks into 14 units. Your older self will thank you later.
Whether you keep ordering endless mimosas every weekend or you decide to start chugging sparkling apple juice in place of champagne, that’s totally up to you and we support you, boo. After all, your health should be priority no matter what