Beware of the Consequences of Alcoholism

With the advancement in medical science over the past couple of years, people are soon coming to terms with the seriousness of the alcohol abuse. It is because of the fact that brain imaging studies (conducted over a five year period) have revealed the physical shrinkage the region of the brain that commands learning and memory. As a matter of fact the shrinkage is more extensive in the cortex of the frontal lobe, which is known to be the center of higher intellectual functions and of course this shrinkage increases with continued alcohol use and age.

Not to forget, short-term memory loss is usually the first noticeable sign of alcohol related brain damage. Any alcoholic who consumes loads of alcohol over a long period of time becomes a potential candidate for alcohol related brain damage. How extensive the damage is depends on the system of the drinker, the type and amount of alcohol consumed, and diet that accompanies the chronic drinking. Apart from that nutritional problems caused by alcohol consumption can also contribute to brain damage. The worst part is that the vital parts of the brain become susceptible to damage due to vitamin deficiencies, especially thiamine deficiency. Toxicity caused by alcohol in the system during and after use can also seriously damage vital organs such as the brain, liver, kidneys and pancreas. Alcohol also has a serious effect on the central nervous system.

But thankfully, most of the damage caused by alcohol is reversible provided if it is caught early enough. Even at times it can disappear altogether. However a total abstinence from alcohol, along with an improved diet and consumption of vitamins, especially thiamine, vitamin B1, definitely helps in the reversal process. If you or someone you know is an alcoholic, take the appropriate steps to seek help and treatment today, before it is too late.