What People 50+ Should Know About Alcohol and Their Health

Note: This blog is for informational purposes only, always check with your doctor or healthcare provider about any medical issues or symptoms you are experiencing. Call 911 if you are in distress or having symptoms that could be serious.

As we age, it becomes increasingly important to understand how lifestyle choices impact our health, and alcohol consumption is no exception. Recent research has linked alcohol consumption to an increased risk of several types of cancer, making it essential for those 50 and older to reevaluate their drinking habits and make informed decisions.

Alcohol and Cancer: What You Need to Know

Alcohol is now recognized as a carcinogen by the Centers for Disease Control, meaning it can contribute to the development of cancer. Even moderate drinking can increase the risk of cancers such as:

• Breast cancer
• Liver cancer
• Esophageal cancer
• Colorectal cancer
• Mouth and throat cancers

For individuals over 50, this is especially concerning because age itself is a significant risk factor for many cancers. Combining alcohol with other risk factors, such as smoking or poor diet, can compound the risks.

You may be interested in reading, 3 Ways too Much Alcohol Can Impact Your Retirement

Are You Drinking Too Much?

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines moderate drinking as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men. However, these guidelines are not one-size-fits-all. Factors like age, weight, medications, and overall health can influence how alcohol affects your body. As we age, our bodies metabolize alcohol more slowly, increasing its effects and potential harm.

Here’s how a “standard drink” is typically defined:

• 12 ounces of beer (5% alcohol content)
• 5 ounces of wine (12% alcohol content)
• 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits (40% alcohol content)

Exceeding these limits can lead to health issues such as:

• Liver damage
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Cognitive decline
• Increased risk of falls and injuries

Check out the Alcohol Spending Calculator to see how much you’re spending on alcohol as another way of looking at the impact to not only your health but your wallet.

Tips for Healthy Drinking Habits

If you choose to drink, consider these strategies to minimize risks:

1. Know Your Limits: Understand how much alcohol your body can handle and stick to those limits.
2. Stay Hydrated: Drink water throughout the day and alternate alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic ones. Be sure not to drink too much water which you can read more about in our blog, How to Know When Drinking Too Much Water is Dangerous
3. Eat While Drinking: Consuming food can slow alcohol absorption and reduce its effects.
4. Avoid Binge Drinking: Consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short period is particularly harmful and increases health risks.
5. Be Mindful of Medications: Many medications commonly prescribed to older adults can interact negatively with alcohol.

You may be interested in reading, 3 Ways too Much Alcohol Can Impact Your Retirement

When to Seek Help

If you’re concerned about your drinking habits or feel alcohol may be affecting your health, don’t hesitate to seek help. Talk to your doctor or explore resources such as counseling or support groups you can also contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Addressing potential issues early can help you maintain your health and quality of life.

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Protecting Your Health as You Age

Being informed about the risks of alcohol consumption and taking steps to drink responsibly can help you safeguard your health. Whether you choose to reduce your intake or eliminate alcohol altogether, every step toward moderation is a step toward better health.

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