Excessive Alcohol Consumption Tied to Brain Damage and Increased Risk of Cognitive Decline

Drinking Eight or More Alcoholic Beverages Weekly Linked to Brain Damage and Cognitive Decline

Regularly consuming eight or more alcoholic drinks per week is associated with brain lesions known as hyaline arteriolosclerosis. These lesions, caused by damaged blood vessels that reduce blood flow, can impair memory and thinking over time.

Researchers also observed a higher presence of tau tangles—a key marker of Alzheimer’s disease—in both heavy and former heavy drinkers. Former drinkers also showed decreased brain volume and poorer cognitive performance. Alarmingly, heavy drinkers were found to have a life expectancy about 13 years shorter than those who abstain.

Key Findings:

Brain Lesions: Heavy drinkers had a 133% higher risk of developing brain lesions than non-drinkers.

Alzheimer’s Risk: Tau tangles were more prevalent in heavy and former heavy drinkers.

Shortened Lifespan: Heavy drinkers died, on average, 13 years earlier than non-drinkers.

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