Separating Fact from Fiction About Alcohol
Duncan Bhaskaran Brown
Helping organisations confront the hidden wellbeing crises | The Alcohol Awareness Expert
We've all heard them - those age-old sayings about alcohol that seem to hold some truth. But are they really accurate? This #AlcoholAwarenessWeek, let's debunk some common misconceptions about alcohol and get to the bottom of the facts.
Myth #1: Red Wine is a Heart Hero
This one has been around for a while - the idea that a glass of red wine a day keeps the doctor away, specifically the heart doctor. While it's true that red wine contains antioxidants called resveratrol, research on its heart benefits is far from conclusive. In fact, excessive alcohol consumption, regardless of the type of beverage, is linked to an increased risk of heart disease. So, ditch the notion that red wine is a magic potion for heart health.
Myth #2: Nightcaps for Better Sleep? Think Again!
Many people reach for a nightcap to unwind and supposedly drift off to sleep faster. However, the reality is quite different. Alcohol disrupts sleep cycles, preventing you from entering those deep sleep stages crucial for feeling rested. This can lead to fragmented sleep, frequent waking, and feeling more tired overall, even if you fall asleep quickly at first.
What Myths Are You Curious About? Let's Keep the Conversation Going!
These are just two of the many myths surrounding alcohol. Do you have questions about other commonly held beliefs? Share them in the comments below, and we'll tackle them in future #AlcoholAwarenessWeek posts!