Every glass counts! Know why alcohol hits women harder than men

Research reveals that women face a higher chance of developing health issues from drinking; even if they are consuming at lower level than men. Guilt- free drinks is a marketing strategy to make female more comfortable about drinking.

New Delhi: The adverse effect of heavy drinking is well known to all of us. For decades, alcohol-related issues were largely related to males, especially in Asian countries. As the gender gap in terms of alcohol is disappearing, the trend has changed women drinkers rapidly increasing. It's not a success for equality; rather, it’s a warning because several studies uncover the painful and distinct ways in which alcohol negatively impacts the female body and psyche. Alcohol is widely consumed to manage stress, anxiety, and pressure, and social pleasure, but studies indicate women are more likely to drink to numb negative emotions. 

Why does Alcohol affect women more severely? 

• Women's bodies, on average, have less water and a higher percentage of body fat (smaller body size than men). Alcohol mixes with body water, as women have lower water levels; Every sip of alcohol becomes more concentrated in her system, leading to a higher blood alcohol level from the same amount of drink.

• Women have lower levels of the stomach enzyme called dehydrogenase (ADH), primarily present in the liver. This helps in the breakdown of alcohol before it enters the bloodstream. Resulted in women being less efficient at processing alcohol, as more circulation of alcohol causes greater damage to vital organs.
  

  Your well-being is worth more than a glass (Source: pexels)

The data shows that alcohol- related deaths among women have increased at a faster rate in recent years. The trend has a higher hidden cos. One of the most concerning things is that moderate drinking can increase the risk of breast cancer, faster damage to the heart and liver. The glass of wine that relieves stress is harming you slowly, which is invisible in the short term.  

For years, we have normalized alcohol as a form of self-care for women, but we need to stop believing myths. It's not about shaming women who consume alcohol; it's about acknowledging the truth and making healthier choices. In the past, women's alcohol drinking was considered fun and empowering, but the real danger is vast and hidden. Mommy juice, or a healthier or guilt-free drink, is a marketing strategy to make females more comfortable about drinking. They use terms like “skinny”, “light”, and “natural flavor” designed to appeal to health-conscious consumers, but alcohol is alcohol, the primary product is the same as any other, and heads to the same health risks.