The effects of alcohol can change quickly from the perfect buzz to violent vomiting and passing out. Alcoholic beverages suppress the amygdala (the fear-sensing portion of the brain), while simultaneously stimulating the reward centers, so it’s no surprise that a few drinks feel pretty darn good. We’re almost like super-beings, as we become more talkative, funnier, less inhibited and more outgoing. However, drowsiness and withdrawal begins to occur as alcohol is eliminated from the body, which causes the drinker to keep consuming to maintain the buzz. There comes a point where the switch turns off that reminds one to be conscientious of one’s alcohol level. At worst, drinking high alcohol content can suppress the centers of the brain that control breathing.

How does the binge drinking of alcoholic beverages affect the brain in the long run? As many as 80% of alcoholics have a thiamine deficiency, which predisposes them to serious brain disorders like Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome (WKS). WKS consists of a short–lived (but severe) condition called Wernicke’s encephalopathy and a long–lasting (and debilitating) dysfunction known as Korsakoff’s psychosis. The encephalopathy side induces mental confusion, nerve paralysis in the eyes and poor muscle coordination. Korsakoff’s psychosis leads to learning and memory failure, frustration and forgetfulness bordering on amnesia. Chronic alcohol consumption hurts the cerebellum worst of all and 25% of patients who develop WKS require a caretaker.

A new study revealed that roughly 50% of pregnant women in France are uneducated about the dangers of consuming alcoholic beverages while carrying an unborn baby. Fetal alcohol syndrome is the most preventable prenatal disorder. Characteristics include facial abnormalities and decreased brain cell count, as well as learning and behavioral problems that can last life-long. While some people speculate that a glass of wine here and there won’t do any damage, most doctors recommend to avoid any alcoholic drink altogether when pregnant, to avoid the chance.

Alchohol is known to be responsible for other problems that while not the potential killers mentioned above, they are certainly cause for complaint. Alcohol is a known cause for snoring and should be avoided in the evenings if you suffer from snoring. Another problem aggravated by alcohol is acid reflux. If you are currently on any acid reflux remedy it’s wise to keep off alcohol while on the treatment as advised by health blog online.