Let’s talk about alcohol and health…

As a Nutritional Therapist I’m often asked my thoughts on alcohol in relation to health. I’ll always respond that it depends on the health of an individual, the type, amount & quality of alcohol consumed, the environment it’s consumed in and the reason for it.

Too much alcohol is of course a burden on the liver and puts a stress on all systems of the body. In addition, if it is being used as a way to distract or numb feelings, it's also not helpful for wellbeing. And for certain health conditions or medications it can be advisable to avoid it completely.

But enjoying a small glass or two of wine to celebrate an achievement / birthday or with a meal in the company of family and friends can also have positive effects on our wellbeing. We can look to the Blue Zones as an example of this - regions of the world where people live the longest and healthier lives. Their secret? They drink moderately (i.e. one to two small glasses of wine per day) with friends and / or with food 💙

So if you do enjoy a glass, ensure to enjoy it in moderation, always have it with food, among good company, keep hydrated with a glass of water alongside it and choose a good quality wine (i.e. organic & biodynamic).

Your body and liver will be thanking you the next day 🙂