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Alcohol is good for your health and long life

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If it is consumed in moderation, Alcohol may help you live longer

 

Text Credit: Shibul Pavithran 

‘Drinking alcohol is injurious to health’, is the very popular statutory warning seen almost ‘everywhere’. But let’s change it a bit and say drinking excess amounts of alcohol is injurious to health. Drinking for some may be out of mere addiction and for some its just due to a casual event or occasion happening. If there’s one thing that tends to blur the line between friend and foe, it’s alcohol. One glass of wine or beer can easily be morph into two to three and so on.  Instead of drinking like crazy on weekends, let’s try drinking in less often so we don’t have to face any problems … it’s like changing your favourite song from ‘Saturday Night‘ ( Whigfield) to ‘Staying Alive’ (Bee Gees). Yes, let’s try working the sober way out with some fun.    

Drinking about two glasses of wine or beer a day was linked to an 18% drop in a person’s risk of early death—an even stronger effect than the life-preserving practice of exercise The results came from the 90+ Study, a research project out of the University of California Irvine’s Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders that examines the habits of people who live to at least 90.

Though the study has not yet been published in a scientific journal, it triggered a spate of booze-praising headlines. But can alcohol actually help you live longer? Researchers have gone back and forth on that question for years. Here’s what the research really says about alcohol and health.

Alcohol linked with longevity

The new study isn’t the first to link alcohol with a long life, suggests of people with mild Alzheimer’s, for example, found that moderate drinkers were less likely to die during the study’s follow-up period than teetotalers. A large study also found that light and moderate drinkers were less likely to die from cardiovascular disease than those who never sipped. Red wine, in particular, is often singled out for its anti-aging benefits, usually because of a compound called resveratrol — though that explanation may be over-simplified, and more research is needed.

Beverages themselves are giving longevity benefits, or if the health effects come from other lifestyle factors common among moderate drinkers, such as a strong social network. Plus, most research focuses specifically on moderate drinking, which is typically defined as no more than a drink a day for women or two drinks a day for men. Research has generally not found health benefits for people with heavier drinking habits — and, in fact, a recent report says that alcohol abuse is causing a decline in US  life expectancy.

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Alcohol may or may not be good for your heart

The relationship between alcohol and cardiovascular health is perhaps the most debatable of all. Quite a few studies have linked moderate drinking with better heart health, but some researchers have questioned these findings based on something called the abstainer bias: the idea that many non-drinkers teetotal because they have other health issues, or because they’re recovering from addiction. Including these folks in studies could skew the data to make people who don’t drink look unfairly unhealthy, and to falsely equate booze with health benefits.

A large study suggests, however, was designed to eliminate the possibility of abstainer bias. It still found that moderate drinking may protect against heart attacks, strokes, chest pain and fatal heart disease.

Alcohol may contribute to weight gain

It’s easy to forget, but alcoholic beverages are often quite high in calories. Regularly imbibing, then, can sneakily contribute to weight gain and obesity. Those can come with their own set of health problems, ranging from heart disease to type 2 diabetes.

The bottom line

There’s still a lot of scientists don’t know about drinking, but the research clearly suggests that moderation is key. While it’s smart to cut back if your drinking veers into bingeing territory, there’s likely no reason to stop drinking if you do so in small amounts — just as you probably shouldn’t feel compelled to start sipping if you don’t already. The healthiest game plan: Stick to drinking in moderation (one drink a day for women, two drinks for men) and avoiding binge drinking. And know yourself, adds Moore. Before popping bottles, consider your family health history, what—or how many—drinks it takes to trigger bad behavior, and whether or not you’re on any meds that may have less-than-stellar alcohol interactions. And last but not the least, keep your body hydrated (drink lots of water).

Cheers! 🍷

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Incorporating Vitamin E into Your Diet: Delicious Fruit Options

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Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy cells, boosting immunity, and protecting against oxidative stress. While it’s commonly found in nuts, seeds, and oils, did you know that several delicious fruits are also excellent sources of this essential nutrient? Let’s explore some mouthwatering fruit options that can help you meet your daily vitamin E needs while tantalizing your taste buds.

Avocado:

Often hailed as a superfood, avocados are not only creamy and delicious but also packed with nutrients, including vitamin E. Adding slices of ripe avocado to salads, sandwiches, or simply enjoying it on its own can provide a significant portion of your daily vitamin E intake.

Kiwi:

Bursting with flavor and vibrant green hues, kiwis are not only rich in vitamin C but also contain a good amount of vitamin E. Enjoy them sliced over yogurt, blended into smoothies, or incorporated into fruit salads for a refreshing and nutritious treat.

Mango:

Sweet, juicy, and tropical, mangoes are a delightful source of vitamin E. Whether enjoyed fresh, diced into salsas, or blended into creamy mango smoothies, these golden fruits offer a delicious way to boost your antioxidant intake.

Papaya: With its luscious orange flesh and sweet flavor, papaya is another fruit that’s brimming with vitamin E. Indulge in slices of fresh papaya as a standalone snack, blend it into tropical fruit juices, or add it to fruit platters for a dose of sunshine in every bite.

Blackberries: These small but mighty berries are not only bursting with flavor but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants, including vitamin E. Incorporate blackberries into your breakfast oatmeal, sprinkle them over yogurt, or enjoy them by the handful for a tasty and nutritious snack.

Apricots: Whether fresh or dried, apricots are a fantastic source of vitamin E. Snack on dried apricots for a convenient and portable boost of nutrients, or enjoy fresh apricot slices as a refreshing addition to salads and desserts.

Kiwano (Horned Melon):This exotic fruit may look unusual with its spiky orange exterior, but its vibrant green flesh is not only visually striking but also rich in vitamin E. Kiwano can be enjoyed on its own or added to fruit salads for a unique and flavorful twist.

Incorporating vitamin E-rich fruits into your diet is not only delicious but also beneficial for your overall health and well-being. Whether you prefer the creamy texture of avocados, the tropical sweetness of mangoes, or the tangy bite of kiwis, there are plenty of delightful options to choose from. So why not add a splash of color and flavor to your meals and snacks with these nutrient-packed fruits?

Remember to enjoy a varied and balanced diet to ensure you’re getting all the essential nutrients your body needs for optimal health. With these tasty fruit options, boosting your vitamin E intake has never been more enjoyable!

 

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Beauty

Rihanna’s Jaw-Dropping Maternity Shoot: Unveiling Goddess-Like Beauty and Baby Bump Glamour!

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Rihanna, the iconic pop star, recently celebrated the beauty of her pregnant form by sharing a throwback maternity shoot on social media. Pregnancy is a transformative journey filled with mental, physical, emotional, and hormonal changes, and Rihanna wanted to showcase the goddess-like essence that comes with it. The captivating photo series, titled “Rub on ya titties,” features Rihanna in beach waves, adorned with body chains, and with her unborn child, affectionately referred to as Baby RZA, in her womb.

In a heartfelt caption accompanying the photos, Rihanna reflected on her first experience with pregnancy and impending motherhood as she prepares to welcome her second child with A$AP Rocky. She honored the magic of her body and the journey of embracing motherhood like a true warrior. She humorously acknowledged that Baby RZA has no idea about the vibrant personality of his mama or how deeply he would captivate her.

Beyond the sentimental message, Rihanna’s maternity shoot offered inspiration for achieving vacation-ready beauty. The photos showcased dewy, sun-kissed skin, accentuated by golden accessories. Long, boldly colored nails added instant glamour, even without a full ensemble. The effortlessly tousled texture, reminiscent of just-emerged-from-water locks, served as the go-to style for achieving a mermaid-inspired look. And to add a touch of Rihanna’s signature bad gal vibe, a swipe of peach lip gloss provided a warm, luxurious, and seemingly effortless finish—a perfect reflection of Rihanna’s approach to parenthood and life as a whole.

Rihanna’s throwback maternity shoot not only celebrated her own journey but also emphasized the beauty and power that pregnancy brings. It served as a reminder that embracing the changes and nurturing the divine creation within is a truly awe-inspiring experience.

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Beauty

Why Priyanka Chopra’s Choice Can Energize and Strengthen Your Body

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Priyanka Chopra, the renowned actress and global icon, leads a wholesome life when she’s not busy with events and commitments. Alongside her DIY skincare hacks, she engages in various fitness activities such as swimming, cycling, yoga, bodyweight exercises, and weightlifting. Swimming, in particular, holds a special place in her heart, as she finds it not only energizing but also mood-boosting. In this article, we explore the reasons why swimming is an excellent exercise for holistic well-being and why you should consider incorporating it into your fitness routine.

Swimming is a comprehensive workout that engages different muscle groups, providing extensive training for the body. It enhances strength, stamina, and cardiovascular fitness. Beyond the physical benefits, swimming also stimulates positive mental well-being. Research suggests that swimming can ease anxiety and depressive symptoms, promote a sense of well-being, and elevate mood and energy levels. By diving into the water, you dive into a pool of mental stimulation and rejuvenation.

One of the remarkable aspects of swimming is its low-impact nature. The buoyancy of water reduces stress on joints and minimizes the risk of impact-related injuries, making it an ideal exercise for people of all ages and fitness levels. Additionally, swimming can aid in rehabilitation after injuries, as it reduces stress on bones, joints, and connective tissues. Individuals with arthritis, joint pain, or those recovering from injuries can benefit greatly from swimming as part of their rehabilitation program.

Swimming serves as an excellent aerobic activity, providing a workout for the heart and lungs. Regular swimming trains the body to utilize oxygen more effectively, resulting in a decrease in resting heart rate and breathing rate. The muscles in the arms, legs, and core are all utilized during swimming, enhancing their power, flexibility, and endurance. Moreover, swimming can help lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, and improve overall heart health.

Swimming is an effective calorie-burning exercise. A leisurely swim can burn around 500 calories per hour, while a more intense session could burn up to 700 calories. Not only does swimming burn calories, but it also helps build lean muscle, which boosts metabolism. By increasing your lean muscle mass, you increase your body’s calorie-burning potential. Therefore, swimming can be an excellent aid in weight loss or weight maintenance, while also improving overall metabolic rate.

Swimming promotes flexibility and joint mobility due to the range of motion required during swimming movements. The water’s supportiveness allows for stretching and loosening of muscles, which can enhance overall flexibility. Whether you want to improve your range of motion during other exercises or simply feel more agile in daily life, swimming is a great way to increase flexibility and improve joint mobility. Regular swimming can also enhance muscle endurance, contributing to improved overall fitness.

Following Priyanka Chopra’s footsteps, incorporating swimming into your fitness routine can provide numerous benefits for both your body and mind. Swimming offers a well-rounded approach to fitness, enhancing strength, stamina, cardiovascular fitness, and flexibility. It is a low-impact exercise suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Moreover, swimming aids in weight management, calorie burning, and metabolic boost. By diving into the pool, you not only get a full-body workout but also experience the positive mental effects of swimming. So, jump in and swim your way to energized and fit well-being.

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