Alcohol consumption is highly detrimental to tattoo healing, as it can thin the blood, delay healing, and disrupt self-control. Tattoo artists often recommend not consuming alcohol at least 24 hours before and during the appointment. Alcohol can significantly delay healing times and increase the risk of infections due to its effects on blood thinning, dehydration, and immune system suppression.
After getting a tattoo, the body will be considered an open wound, and alcohol can delay the healing process by dehydrating the body and reducing blood flow to the affected area. Alcohol also thins the blood, which can cause excess bleeding and setback the natural clotting and scabbing necessary for recovery. Too much alcohol weakens the immune system, and the body needs every reserve and healing power for your new tattoo.
It is best to avoid drinking alcohol before getting a tattoo, as it can slow down the healing process and make the tattooing process trickier for the artist. Alcohol can also decrease your normal blood clotting ability, leading to increased bleeding during the tattoo session.
To ensure a beautiful tattoo, prioritize water consumption before, during, and after consuming alcohol. Drinking plenty of water before, during, and after consuming alcohol can help prevent complications and ensure the healing process is smooth. Prioritize hydration by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after consuming alcohol to ensure a healthy and beautiful tattoo.
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| Drinking Alcohol Before & After Getting A Tattoo | Too much alcohol weakens your immune system and your body needs every reserve and healing power for your new tattoo. The many micro-injuries to … | barberdts.com |
| How Does Alcohol Consumption Affect Tattoo Ink and the … | Furthermore, alcohol’s effects on the body can hinder the healing process and even have long-term consequences on the tattoo’s quality. To … | xtremeinks.com |
📹 Tattoos and Alcohol: A Dangerous Mix Sorry Mom
In this video, Rasmus shares his thoughts and expert insights on why mixing alcohol and tattoos is a bad idea. Tune in to learn …
Where Is The Most Painful Tattoo?
When considering tattoo placements, pain sensitivity can vary significantly based on individual thresholds. However, certain areas of the body are universally recognized as the most painful spots for tattoos, largely due to their anatomical characteristics such as thin skin, proximity to bone, and concentration of nerve endings. The most painful areas include:
- Feet and Ankles: These regions have minimal fat or muscle, leading to exposed nerves, which heightens sensitivity.
- Rib Cage: The skin around the ribs is particularly thin, making this area notorious for intense pain during tattooing.
- Spine: Tattoos along the spine can also be very painful due to the bone's proximity and the numerous nerve endings present.
- Knees and Elbows: Both the front and back of the knees and elbows can be uncomfortable due to their bony structure and lack of cushioning.
- Armpits and Groin: These areas are not only sensitive but also have a high concentration of nerve endings, contributing to their painful reputation.
- Neck and Throat: The skin in these areas is delicate, and the nerves are particularly sensitive, resulting in a more intense tattoo experience.
Other body parts known for significant pain during tattooing include hands and fingers, especially the outer finger and back of hands, as well as face, ears, nipples, and the chest area. For those contemplating tattoos in any of these regions, it’s crucial to consider the potential discomfort associated with the procedure.
Many individuals report that, although the pain varies, highly sensitive areas like the ribs, spine, and inner wrist consistently rank as among the most painful. Hence, when deciding on a tattoo location, prospective clients should weigh both aesthetic desires and pain tolerance, particularly in the areas listed above, to ensure a satisfying experience. Overall, choosing a tattoo placement involves personal reflection and awareness of the body's sensitivity levels, making it a significant component of the tattoo journey.
Can Alcohol Fade Tattoos?
Ink Dispersion: Consuming alcohol can lead to excessive bleeding, which adversely affects the dispersion of tattoo ink, resulting in blotchy or faded areas, ultimately diminishing the tattoo's quality and appearance. This is particularly critical for first-time tattoo recipients, who may feel nervous and tempted to drink to relax. However, it is advisable to refrain from alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours before a tattoo appointment.
Scientific evidence supports that alcohol intake leads to temporary blood thinning, making it essential to avoid alcohol, as well as any other blood-diluting substances such as certain drugs or medications (like aspirin) prior to the procedure.
The impact of alcohol extends beyond the immediate tattooing process; it can also influence the tattoo's long-term quality. As noted, alcohol thins the blood, which can result in excessive bleeding. This bleeding not only complicates the tattooing process but can also result in fading or distortion of the tattoo's pigment over time, leading to a less vibrant and appealing design. Consequently, it is strongly recommended to abstain from alcohol 24 hours before the tattoo session and for at least 48 hours afterward. Given that a new tattoo is considered an open wound, alcohol consumption can significantly hinder the healing process.
Post-tattoo, while moderate drinking may not pose immediate risks, excessive alcohol intake can lead to complications such as excessive bleeding, increased infection risks, swelling, and dehydration. These factors not only slow down healing but also negatively impact the tattoo's appearance. It's equally crucial to avoid alcohol before any touch-up sessions for existing tattoos, as blood dilution and impaired judgment can further complicate the experience.
Regarding the application of rubbing alcohol, while it won't directly fade a tattoo, it should be avoided on new tattoos, as it can interrupt the healing process, potentially leading to faded or warped ink. Cleaning around the tattoo with alcohol can be acceptable for adhesive purposes; however, direct application is ill-advised.
In summary, drinking alcohol before and after getting a tattoo can lead to various undesirable effects, such as excessive bleeding that dilutes ink and impacts pigment. The potential for complications from alcohol consumption, including impeded healing and altered tattoo appearance, underscores the importance of abstaining from alcohol around the time of the tattoo procedure. Therefore, it is prudent to remain alcohol-free for at least 24 hours before and 48 hours after getting a tattoo to ensure optimal results and healing.
How Much Alcohol Is Bad Before A Tattoo?
You should refrain from drinking alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to your tattoo appointment due to its blood-thinning effects. Alcohol consumption can lead to increased bleeding during the tattooing process, complicating the artist's work and negatively impacting the quality of your tattoo.
When considering a small tattoo, it's critical to stop drinking well in advance. Experts advise that you should also avoid alcohol and caffeine for 48 hours leading up to the appointment. This is because alcohol can affect various factors such as blood quality, decision-making, pain tolerance, and the healing process. Post-tattoo, alcohol can further delay healing, heighten infection risk, and diminish overall tattoo quality.
Dehydration is another concern with alcohol consumption. Since it can dehydrate the body, it’s vital to counteract this by staying adequately hydrated with water, especially before getting tattooed. The combined effects of alcohol can make your skin less elastic, and excessive bleeding may occur during the process, leading to complications.
In summary, the risks associated with drinking alcohol within 24 hours before a tattoo session include thinned blood, dehydration, impaired judgment, and increased bleeding, potentially jeopardizing both the tattoo experience and healing process. Therefore, it is best to avoid alcohol altogether for at least a day prior to your appointment. Additionally, it is recommended to abstain from alcohol for 48 hours after getting a tattoo to minimize risks, ensure optimal healing, and maintain the quality of the artwork.
What Should I Avoid After Getting A Tattoo?
Vij provides important recommendations for tattoo aftercare to ensure proper healing and long-lasting beauty of your new body art. Here’s a summary of what to avoid after getting a new tattoo:
First and foremost, do not scratch or pick at the tattooed area, as this can lead to irritation and scabbing. Exfoliating the tattooed skin, using petroleum jelly, or applying sunscreen before the tattoo is fully healed is also discouraged. It is crucial to keep the fresh tattoo away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and irritation during the initial healing phase, which can take up to three to four weeks.
When it comes to clothing, avoid tight garments that may rub against the tattoo, which could cause discomfort and hinder the healing process. Furthermore, steer clear of immersing the tattoo in water, including hot tubs, bathtubs, and swimming pools, until you have received confirmation that the tattoo is completely healed.
If the new tattoo is in an area commonly shaved—such as underarms, legs, scalp, face, or neck—delaying shaving until full healing is advised, as using a razor on a fresh wound can cause complications. Aftercare begins as soon as the tattoo is completed, with proper cleansing a pivotal aspect of care. It’s advisable to use a mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water while avoiding abrasive materials like washcloths or loofahs during cleaning.
Additionally, it's best to avoid specific foods and drinks, such as soft drinks, processed juices, and fried foods, which may impact the healing process. For optimal healing, refrain from risky activities like swimming in natural water bodies or unclean environments. Follow these guidelines for a smoother recovery and to maintain the artistry of your tattoo.
How Long After A Tattoo Can You Drink Coffee?
When preparing for a tattoo, it is crucial to avoid alcohol and caffeine for 24 hours before and 3 days after the session. Both substances can thin the blood, leading to increased bleeding, which may cause the tattoo ink to not settle properly, resulting in a blotchy appearance. While enjoying a cup of coffee post-tattoo is possible, it's wise to consider your body’s reaction. Typically, it's recommended to wait at least 24 hours before consuming coffee.
If you decide to have coffee a few days after getting tattooed, it’s best to limit yourself to one drink and to include a hydrating snack, such as watermelon or salad, between drinks if you choose to have more.
Drinking coffee the morning of the appointment is generally acceptable, as maintaining your usual habits can prevent unnecessary stress on your body and mind. Alcohol will not harm your tattoo after a few hours, provided you are not on blood thinners or have underlying medical conditions. After two hours, your blood should clot, alleviating any concerns regarding increased bleeding.
How long prior to the tattoo any caffeine should be abstained from varies, but it's advisable to refrain from coffee or energy drinks for at least 24 hours leading up to the appointment. Although scientific evidence on the adverse effects of caffeine post-tattoo is lacking, it’s commonly suggested to avoid such beverages for two weeks or until the tattoo heals completely. Many tattoo artists recommend waiting 24 hours before resuming alcohol consumption to allow the tattoo to start forming a protective barrier.
In summary, it’s essential to refrain from alcohol before the tattoo and wait a bit longer afterward, while caffeine should be avoided a day before and limited post-tattoo to promote optimal healing.
Does Alcohol Affect A Tattoo?
Alcohol consumption significantly affects both the tattooing process and the long-term appearance of tattoos. It thins the blood, which can cause ink dispersal beneath the skin, resulting in blurry lines and faded colors. Therefore, it is widely recommended to avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before getting a tattoo and ideally abstain for 48-72 hours afterward.
Before tattooing, alcohol's blood-thinning properties can increase bleeding, complicating the process for the tattoo artist and potentially impacting the final artwork. Consuming alcohol post-tattoo can also have detrimental effects by increasing bleeding, leading to dehydration, and ultimately impairing the body's healing process. This can result in a faded or patchy tattoo. A new tattoo is essentially an open wound, meaning alcohol can hinder recovery and put individuals at a greater risk for infections.
In addition to increasing complications during the tattooing process, alcohol dehydrates the body, which is detrimental since proper hydration is crucial for healing. Therefore, not only does drinking alcohol before a tattoo pose risks, but it can also affect the overall quality and longevity of the tattoo.
Following the tattoo session, it is critical to continue avoiding alcohol for a specified period to promote better healing. Alcohol's effect on blood clotting can lead to excessive bleeding, making it essential to maintain proper care and hydration during the recovery period.
In conclusion, for anyone considering a tattoo, it is vital to follow guidelines regarding alcohol consumption to ensure the best possible outcome, both in terms of the tattoo’s appearance and the individual’s health. The general consensus is clear: abstaining from alcohol before and after getting a tattoo is key to a smooth process and a successful healing experience.
Can Alcohol Affect Tattoo Healing?
Drinking alcohol after getting a tattoo can significantly impair your body’s ability to heal. Alcohol consumption extends the overall healing time and negatively impacts your immune system, which is crucial for recovery. Since the skin is your largest organ, any disruption in its healing can complicate your body’s overall functioning. To ensure optimal healing, it is advisable to abstain from alcohol for a period of 48 hours following the tattoo application and to avoid drinking for at least 24 hours prior to getting the tattoo.
Alcohol, viewed as relatively harmless in social contexts, can have adverse effects on a healing tattoo. One of the main issues is that it thins the blood, potentially increasing bleeding both during and after the tattoo process, thereby prolonging healing. Additionally, alcohol dehydrates the skin and can suppress the immune system, making healing more difficult. This heightened dehydration interferes with the skin’s regeneration ability, while a weakened immune system increases the risk of infection, further delaying recovery.
For those wondering when it’s safe to drink again, waiting until about 24 to 48 hours after the tattoo is usually recommended; this timeframe allows for the initial healing process to begin. Hydration and rest are essential to support recovery during this period, so it’s crucial to prioritize these over alcohol consumption.
The importance of allowing the body’s natural defenses to function effectively cannot be overstated. Alcohol reduces the number of antibodies available, hindering the healing process, and your body needs all its reserves to recover. The formation of scabs, vital for tattoo healing, can also be affected by alcohol consumption, making it harder for your skin to heal properly.
While alcohol will not necessarily ruin the tattoo in the long term if the healing has progressed adequately, it's essential to understand that during initial healing, alcohol can lead to complications such as increased bleeding, swelling, and infection risk. Therefore, it is best to abstain from alcohol during the critical healing phase of your tattoo to ensure a smooth and effective recovery.
Does Alcohol Remove Tattoo Ink?
To remove a tattoo, soak a cotton ball in rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer and gently rub it over the ink. This technique aids in dissolving the ink, but be sure to rinse afterward. Alcohol intake can significantly influence both the tattoo application process and its healing phase. Experts recommend avoiding alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours prior to getting a tattoo and for 48 hours following it to ensure optimal healing and ink retention.
Alcohol might not only affect your body while getting tattooed but also how your tattoo looks in the long term. It’s known that alcohol thins the blood, causing excessive bleeding during tattooing, which can obscure the artist’s visibility and potentially ruin the final design.
After a tattoo, drinking alcohol can delay the body's healing process, as it dehydrates the skin and impairs the immune system essential for regeneration. Additionally, large amounts of alcohol can hinder the liver and kidneys from effectively clearing out fragmented ink particles post-laser treatment. Consequently, this can affect the ink’s quality and the overall appearance of your tattoo.
When caring for a new tattoo, refrain from using harsh cleansers, including rubbing alcohol and peroxide, as they can irritate the skin and jeopardize the ink’s integrity. Washing with mild, unscented soap is recommended during showers for care. Lastly, while combining alcohol with carrier oils may offer some skin care benefits, caution is necessary, as alcohol can still damage the tattoo. Adopting these safety measures is essential to achieving the best results and ensuring a successful healing process for your tattoo.
Will Sweat Ruin A New Tattoo?
Leaving sweat on a fresh tattoo can lead to color bleeding and increased infection risk. While sweating itself won’t ruin a new tattoo, excessive sweating can hinder the healing process, introducing bacteria that may cause infection or result in blurred lines and fading of the ink. It’s essential to minimize sweating in the days following the tattoo application, allowing the skin to heal properly. The body's sweating is necessary, but excessive amounts may complicate recovery and trap bacteria around the healing area.
For some, like the author, tattoos can heal well with minimal issues such as itchiness or scabbing, but it’s still crucial to recognize the risks associated with sweat. A little sweat can be part of an active lifestyle and might even add character to a tattoo, but it’s important to follow proper aftercare. Sweat contains bacteria and can complicate the healing process if the tattoo is bombarded with it. Therefore, it's better to let a tattoo heal before engaging in physical activities such as intense workouts.
Although sweating isn’t directly damaging, neglecting aftercare post-sweat can indeed create problems. Sweating soon after getting a tattoo is generally discouraged, as moisture can mix with ink, leading to potential fading or blurring. Excessive sweating can occur due to heat, strenuous exercise, or spicy food, all of which can negatively affect the tattoo's healing process.
While sweat itself may not cause immediate harm, it can lead to main issues, especially if the skin hasn’t fully healed. It’s advisable to chat with your tattoo artist, particularly regarding exercise and active lifestyles, to determine the best course of action and whether it might be worth waiting before getting a tattoo if you have an intensive physical regimen.
Ultimately, avoiding exercise and sweating right after receiving a new tattoo is crucial. The first 48 hours are particularly important for healing; friction from clothing or sweating in the tattoo area can disrupt this process. Heat, sweat, and prolonged sunlight exposure can further irritate and damage tattoos. For optimal results, consider scheduling tattoos during cooler months to minimize these risks.
In summary, while sweating can affect a new tattoo, careful attention to aftercare and avoiding excessive moisture and friction can ensure the tattoo heals beautifully without compromising its quality.
What Not To Do The Day Of Getting A Tattoo?
Before getting your first tattoo, it’s essential to avoid certain mistakes to ensure a smooth experience and optimal results. Here are key guidelines:
- Avoid Alcohol: Steer clear of alcohol for 24-48 hours before your session, as it thins the blood and can lead to excessive bleeding.
- Skip Tanning and Sunburns: Protect your skin from sunburns and tanning before your appointment to help ensure healthy skin for tattooing.
- No Blood Thinners: Avoid over-the-counter medications like aspirin that can thin your blood.
- Avoid Numbing Creams: These can interfere with the tattooing process, so it’s best not to use them.
- Don’t Rush Decisions: Take your time when choosing a design; impulsive decisions can lead to regrets.
- Limit Caffeine: On the day before your tattoo, try to limit caffeine to reduce the risk of blood thinning.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Proper hydration helps minimize discomfort during the tattooing process.
- Nourish Yourself: Eat healthy meals leading up to your appointment. Bring snacks and drinks to keep your energy up during a long session.
- Get Rest: Make sure you're well-rested, as fatigue can affect your pain tolerance.
- Moisturize: Keep your skin moisturized in the days leading up to the tattoo, but avoid applying moisturizer on the day of the appointment.
During the healing process, it is critical to avoid activities like swimming, scratching the tattoo, and exposing it to sunlight for at least two weeks. By following these guidelines, you enhance your tattooing experience and help your artist deliver the best possible outcome.
What Happens If You Put Rubbing Alcohol On A New Tattoo?
Alcohol can irritate the skin and lead to more bleeding, making it an unsuitable choice for tattoo care. It is advised to use "second skin" for healing; simply clean the area around the tattoo to ensure the adhesive adheres properly. This method has proven effective in preventing infection and preparing the skin for the tattooing process. When having a tattoo repaired, similar preparations as for a new tattoo are required.
Using rubbing alcohol on a tattoo is discouraged as it is too strong and can dry out the skin, potentially causing inflammation and irritation during the healing process. Following the tattoo artist's aftercare instructions is critical. For optimal healing, it is recommended to keep the initial application of the second skin for 24-48 hours, then remove it carefully and clean the tattoo with a mild, fragrance-free bar soap, allowing it to air dry.
Patience is key—once the bandage is removed, resist the urge to touch or disturb the tattoo. Rubbing alcohol may provide temporary relief from itchiness, but it is not necessary and can hinder healing. Instead, apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment to protect the area from bacteria.
Gentle cleansing is essential: wash with warm water and mild antibacterial soap, avoiding scrubbing. Pat the tattoo dry with a clean towel to prevent irritation. Cover the tattoo during activities that expose it to dirt or contaminants, and remember that the tattoo should be cleaned—not soaked. Hydration is vital; the tattoo must remain moist for effective healing, meaning alcohol-based products will only disrupt this process.
Other products like hydrogen peroxide are equally harsh and should not be used. They can cause drying, scabbing, and ink loss. Wearing tight clothing may also impede healing, so it's best to avoid it until the tattoo is fully healed.
Dermatologist Lauren Penzi warns that using rubbing alcohol can harm the tattoo and lead to adverse reactions. For professional and safe tattoo aftercare, stick to gentle washing, moisture retention, and adhering strictly to the aftercare guidelines provided by your tattoo artist, while steering clear of harsh chemicals.
📹 How Does Alcohol Impact Your Gut Microbiome & Leaky Gut? Dr. Andrew Huberman
Dr. Andrew Huberman explains how alcohol impacts your gut microbiome and leaky gut. Dr. Andrew Huberman is a tenured …
If anyone wants help with quitting the sauce, get to know the monkey on your back. It wears a watch, see how long your craving lasts. Mine was (only) twenty minutes every time I wanted to get drunk. Riding out my twenty minutes greatly helped me, it (only) took me 4 months to get back to shore. Good luck, peace
I have enjoyed moderate alcohol consumption for most of the last 45 years. I love my wine with dinner 2 to 4 glasses. I often enjoyed a small glass of scotch now and then. A beer or two on a hot day or after working in the garden went down well too. I dont think I ever got drunk. Two years ago I took a number of measures to get healthy and gave up drinking. Or at least I limited my drinking to having a couple of glasses of wine with an old friend every two or three weeks. Then I listened to the Huberman podcast on alcohol and its effects on the brain (the long one) a few months ago. I was so shocked that I gave up alcohol altogether.
Like a lot of people, I found myself drinking more during the pandemic and started to experience near-constant intestinal inflammation and bloating that flared up each time I drank. I had to accept that self-medicating with a glass (or three) of wine at the end of a stressful day was no longer a viable option if I wanted to enjoy a long healthy life. After only 3 weeks without drinking, taking probiotics and daily hour-long walks, my gut is already 75-80% better and I’m falling in love with feeling good every day, waking up alert and up for anything. Dry January might become permanent….
Great man! I confirm – I’m a former alcoholic. It took me so much effort to stop drinking…I still feel addicted though and often fight with a wish to have a drink ….but it’s worth it. Every effort. My life changed from wretched, in all aspects, to full of joy and energy. Main thing – my family relations restored, regained success at work (although it took me almost a year to put my brain back in order after drinking), now spend time that I gave to alcohol, on my children, wife, friends and good people. Spend it on sports and electronics, learning chinese, things i like to do. Just don’t give up. fight with alcohol with all your might for your dear ones, and you will win.
I drank almost daily for the last several years, quitting here and there but always going back to it. I started having gut issues and diarrhea in the mornings. My doctor diagnosed me with alcoholic gastritis, which is an inflammation of the stomach lining. Thankfully its curable, and now that I’m 14 days on the wagon, my gut related problems are virtually gone. Feeling better every day.
I am currently in the process of reducing my alcohol consumption that has been a major problem since having 2work related neck surgeries. I stopped training, and started drinking, for 4 years i smashed my body with pain killers and alcohol, and my body, brain and gut have never been the same. It all changes this year, I have broken my dependency on alcohol and now its time to rebuild from the ground up. A little daunting at 44, but articles like this give me confidence that i can fix it. So glad I found Dr Huberman’s YouTube and podcast.
I have recently found out that after years of leg cramps and trying electrolytes, hydration,topicals and ibuprofen it all came down to the alcohol usage. After I eliminated all alcohol my leg cramps and pain was reduced by 75-80%. I walk better and stairs are no longer a problem. Recently came back from a trip to Germany and Austria . The tour was centered around breweries. One day I did 19,000 steps and it was killing my legs. I couldn’t keep up with the tour group which was embarrassing. Now I know and just passing this along as my experience.
Thank you for your clear description of how our alcohol impacts our brain liver, and gut I’ve been alcohol free for almost 3 years now, and you describe the behavior that I was experiencing. I always assumed it was just a genetic predisposition, but based on what you’ve described, I was clearly in that cycle. Thank you I feel so much better about myself today.
I started drinking at 15 im 38 now and decided to walk away from alcohol, i drank every weekend why younger and then turned into everyday as i got into my 20s up till now!! I started feeling dreadful the last few months and ended up in hospital Christmas day, i kept feeling like i was going to pass out, i had a severally dehydrated kidney! It was my wake up call, ain’t touched a sip since that day! I am still having bad side effects from quitting, been having fast heart rhythms, head ake’s, i feel tired more, i won’t ever return to alcohol now my mind feels so much better and its only early days!
I’m 74 and drank steadily for years, seldom to the point of intoxication but 1-2 each day for years. Have had my sigmoid colon removed because it was dead tissue due to diverticulum with abscess’s. Also diagnosed with fatty liver which is a precursor to cirrhosis. Stopped drinking; no more issues. Booze is such a destructive drug!
I’m 63, all I know is work and sleep. No money for exotic vacations, etc…just the way things worked out, working class start to life. Having a few beers and perusal a game at a local tavern is one of the few glimpses of happiness I get. Probably twice a month. Feel good so far. No plans to quit that. No one has good health forever. This is good enough for me. That’s my take.
I started seeing a GI doctor about six months ago, because I was having horrible nausea, but only at night when I was laying down. As soon as I was prone, the nausea would start in. This was causing me to miss many, many hours of sleep. I was trying to sleep sitting up, but that ended up causing pilonidal disease; a sore near your tailbone. I had an Endoscopy, Fibroscan and stomach emptying study. All of these came back relatively normal. I didn’t realize that it was actually alcohol that was causing my stomach lining to be irritated. It only took a few days after I stopped drinking for my nighttime nausea to go away.
I think the most interesting science is how alcohol affects the heart and vascular system, which has the most devastating effects of all foreign systems in my opinion. 40% of all heart failure and arrhythmias is due to alcohol starving, heart cells of oxygen and causing chronic hypertension, exacerbating, acceleration of heart failure, and kidney damage
Helpful. I used to have 1-2 drinks almost every night, but stopped when my energy went down after an extended respiratory disease. It’s hard to find information on the impact of chronic alcohol use in moderate amounts; what I’ve seen is studies indicating it reduces the risk of heart attack, but I had long suspected it has deleterious effects on the liver and gut, and this gives a lot of insight.
Some other foods to help promote a healthy gut microbiome from personal experience. All of which have been helping me the last year or so. Fermented foods and cutting out sugar and alcohol like mentioned. Increasing your fibre and water intake is also very important. But for me, oats, bananas, avocado, cabbage, other dark leafy greens like spinach and kale, legumes and blueberries. Blueberries, bananas, cabbages and oats have especially helped me as well as increasing my soluble fibre and water intake. I’ve also started eating less red meat and more chicken and fish and reducing dairy due to developing a lactose sensitivity. Took some time but I’m sleeping better. Feeling better in general, both physically and mentally, and now I have a bad week each month or so instead of a good day or two each month, usually the bad week is after a night of drinking so that should also tell you something… Take good care of yourselves, you only get one body. Wish I’d valued mine more well before I turned 40, simple things like eating wouldn’t be such a struggle. Edit: A night of drinking OR binging on cheese or ice cream 🤣
I’ve been drinking heavily for past 4 years 8 -15 beers a day odd times at dinner add 2-3bottles some times weekends 15beers+3 bottles of wine special occasions add 2bottles of whiskey,or Havana Club,or Johnny Walker,or Chivas Regal etc Quit Monday August 12/24 3 days so far 🤞 Past 3 nights though I’m shaking like crazy sweating like I ran a marathon horrible nightmares,as a matter of fact it’s 1:00 am I need to go for a walk to try to tire myself out can’t sleep my anxiety is bad but I’m just keeping it to myself about quitting because I don’t want to announce it to anyone until I’m offered a drink, and then explain,why to my family and close friends . Honestly I don’t want to jinx it because from what I’ve been told and convinced myself…”action speaks louder than words. Take care everyone out there going through the same thing I am 🙏Bless
Stopped for 2 years felt amazing! Slowly introduced it and did very rarely now a few days ago drank a very heavy amount on a night out and feel very sour, low depressed emotional and my stomach feels like it’s burning this may be the final straw which led me to these articles love the advice in the comments here peace and health to all of us I hope 🤞
Good evening. I began drinking alcohol at age 38 for approximately seven years every night. I would then immediately go to bed. Fast forwarding I was clinical diagnosed with early stage Parkinson. this took place four years ago. I now have seen extreme improvements while taking a probiotic, turmeric six times a day, artemisinin, lemon balm, pinella antioxidant. I believe my gut microbiome was damaged thus creating toxic proteins, inflammation, leaky gut and so on. I also recently learned (as you stated) the gut is responsible for producing nearly fifty percent of dopamine. I’m currently seeking and working on improving my gut microbiome and hoping this continues to restore the levels of producing dopamine. I’m hopeful being that I’m only 49 it has not reached the pathway of the neurologic part of the brain as well. I off course stopped drinking over four years ago. Knowledge is power when utilized in the right manner! So, thank you for your dedication to sharing your knowledge. Please feel free to reach out if you have any insight to offer or require more information/data concerning my progress etc..
I started having sleep problems.. falling asleep, then waking up after one hour and being awake for 3-4 hours, because my stomach felt so full and not moving.. also combined with a heavy heart beat.. now i try not eating after 8 pm and also limiting alcohol to 1-2 times a week (been drinking beer or wine every day just to fall asleep for around 3-4 years)
I think people way underestimate what they drink and how it affects them. Working in GI you see the effects of mild-moderate use over time and it is not without consequence on the end organs and co-morbid conditions. One of the saddest things to have to tell someone that is my age is that they now have cirrhosis because they had NAFLD and drank 2-3 glasses of wine nightly. It is being seen in more women and in all people at younger ages.
i wish 16 years old me could watch this and actually take it seriously. im 37 now and completely stopped alcohol like 2 years ago. funny alright, but a proctologist recommended it to me, while we were discussing my weight issue, that im mega underweight and always have been. always meaning that for like 20 years i have been trying to gain weight but never stopped getting drunk 2-3 times a week. in my countries culture drinking alcohol every day is perfectly fine. but i moved to the west and now this random proctologist tells me im kind of an alcoholic and im killing my gut, intestines, etc? now im like 2kg-s away of having normal weight – according to BMI..
I love a good old fashioned with a prime sirloin steak with blue cheese and balsamic reduction. Crème brûlée or cheesecake for dessert. Have it every Saturday and look forward to it all week. I’ve dieted my way too much in the past, at almost 50 I’m going to enjoy good food in moderation and I don’t give a fluff anymore!
I drank a bottle of wine a night for many many years. I love the taste of alcohol and it helped relax me. I think I got off lightly and managed this for a long time. When this was coupled with severe and chronic stress due to family violence, things change. It was the strw that broke the camels back and I ended up with two severe diverticular haemmorhages which nearly killed me. I no longer drink and have spent 2 years focussing on healing my gut. High probiotic intake for three months, NAG, L glutamine and other things and I feel great.
I have a question about alcohol, percentages and effects of killing bacteria. I know that alcohol of 70% or more can kill bacteria. However, I would never think to pour a beer or wine over an open wound as the alcohol percentage is so low. I also read That alcohol of 10% or less had no effect on bacteria in the mouth. Would the same be true for bacteria in the gut? Would drinking a beer of 6% have the same affect on the gut as drinking a whiskey of 60%?
I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in my mid twenties and I’m fifty now…. And FINALLY have under control. Grateful for your wisdom Dr. Huberman! You have a real gift to break these things down for us so that we can understand it. Good thing i don’t like booze! I wonder if college binge drinking didn’t get this whole cycle spinning off into the crazies…. One plus one = exponential chaos.
Would you please consider discussing the effects of THC on the gut, brain and liver micro biome? Is it less destructive for the gut and is it a “healthier” alternative to alcohol? I have Hashimotos autoimmune and would like to know if it’s less inflammatory than alcohol on the immune system. Thank you for your topic consideration and help!
i am a cyclist, just for fitness, less than 100 miles a week. every summer when the heat rises, eventually i experienced loose movements. a few years back covid hits, all the bars closed. summer of 2020 no alcohhol, no loose movements. did not ever think to blame alcohol. now i drink 3-4 drinks a month november to march
Generally in agreement with your views on alcohol but I find your analogy lacking. Alcohol use as a disinfectant to really work against microbes, etc generally has to be 70% or higher (if not 90%) from my understanding (COVID brought that into focus). No one except some dudes in the mountains are drinking that percentage (most spirits are capped at 40%). And lemon juice and vinegar have also been used for eons for the same purposes you mention but those are established as very beneficial to the body (but like with almost everything – not in excess). Same goes for alcohol in my view. The human body is robust. If it weren’t, humans wouldn’t have made the cut.
I don’t necessarily disagree with you but how can you explain the areas in the world like Sardinia where they drink alcohol all throughout the day? I think that the abundance of chemicals Americans consume in their diet play a huge role. Most people I know aren’t concerned at all as to what they are ingesting. Most European countries do not allow a lot of the pesticides/chemicals that the US does. Sardinian people don’t eat junk and have no pesticides in their food and they live relatively stress-free lives. They have a lot of older people in their communities that are still very healthy into old age. I think the entire lifestyle And area in which you live should be examined before making these determinations.
I’m in the process if losing my brother to 40 plus years of smoking and alcohol. His liver is damaged causing him liver cancer. He suffered from pancreatitus and had a heart defibrillator something like that implanted on his heart. Now he’s only weeks if not days to live. I’ve a personal vendetta against alcohol abuse and smoking. Plus he had a Terrible diet and used drug’s like cocaine meth and heroine. His life was a life gone wrong due to these unhealthy behaviors. I myself am currently going through rectal cancer. However I’ve never used drug’s alcohol and gave at least tried to eat well especially now.🙏
I’m not a big drinker by any means, a 6 pack of beer will last me a month and a bottle of wine, or amontillado will last me a couple months so my question is not an attempt to justify a bad habit. My question is that if alcohol is as damaging as asserted here why is it that some of the healthiest people in the world live in Mediterranean countries where much alcohol (usually wine) is consumed? Does the type of food eaten with the drink have an affect of diminishing the negative qualities of the alcohol? This is an interested subject to me and one that I’m trying to learn more about.
As I believe most saurkraut is sterile I make my own – actually very simple- dice then crush cabbage and SUBMERGE in ~2% salt in water – put a weight on top the cabbage to keep it submerged – and in 7 to 14 days you’ve got saurkraut with active microbes ( cabbage has the necessary microbes just as grape skins have the necessary yeast to make wine- no need to add, but I’m pondering adding a little from an old batch as a starter like when I make yogurt)
The only small red flag I picked up was the statement that alcohol can destroy bacteria in the gut. I was under the impression that by the time it would take for alcohol or any of its by products to reach that part of the body the alcohol would have been changed to any of those by products such as acetate.
Thank you Dr.Andrew hudleman. Thank God I dont 🍸 it put me to sleep as well. But I like cooking with Saviour or Sauvignon blanc & Chardonnay white wine with Poultry cornish hens, chicken, turkey, quail, partridges & liqueur like Chambord, Grand Marnier in my French toast cheesecake, Desserts Rum in Eggnog pie And I simply love bitters over very good vanilla Ice cream.
Alcohol is the only thing that brings many people happiness in life. Just don’t abuse it. Most people complaining and talking negatively about it are the ones who have abused it, which is entirely their fault-don’t blame it on alcohol, blame it on your self-control. This doctor here himself has his own faults, do you think he eats and drinks perfectly all the time? Yet here he is telling people how to be perfect.
I somehow feel that as you cut down or as you slow down alcohol, it’s more damaging to you and your health when you suddenly starts consuming them again. My hangovers are usually only for half a day and I’d be able to function normally after. Nowadays, even during drinking and halfway drinking, I can feel my gut growling and filled with gasses. It’s like I’ve suddenly grew out of familiarity with it after cutting or slowing down. Now, everytime I consume alcohol, even at a fraction of what I used to be able to take, I’ll have bad reaction towards it.
ok the this has me reconsidering a drink with each sip. but it got me wondering if there’s an ABV threshold that wouldnt hurt the gut and b) how about warm foods.. or hot(temp) foods? how harmful is that for your gut microbiome? … I know these sound like “did he really just ask that?” questions…
i drink 2 pours of whiskey almost every night. i also maintain a balanced diet and exercise regularly. my golden rule is no drink before 5pm or after 8pm. i do feel fine and am quite ‘regular’ but this addiction will always have consequences. the paradox of my life is that i’m too good at abusing substances in a methodical manner.
since i have quite large tolerance to alcohol i never drink too much or often since it was quite expensive to get drunk. Have go from hard liquor to red wine and from bottle every 2-3 weeks to every 2-3 months as a health thing. I am only past 30 but older i get less taste for alcohol i have. Always listen to my body and rarely i ended up vomiting (sure not more then 5 times). After drinking always feel the effects for almost 3 days after. The more i negate unhealthy things like oil, bread and processed foods more clearly i feel the lasting negative effects of drinking.
I’m not sure but was on aspirin daily and started having reflux. I ended the aspirin and coffee. The reflux lessened. A upper endoscopy showed an ok esophagus but they found h. Pylori in the stomach. I went on the 3 antibiotics for 10days also a ppi. Yesterday I delivered a stool sample for H. Pylori check. Eating various probiotics. I think I’ve had the h. Pylori for years not sure. Drank heavy in my 20s and had continued reflux and gastritis bouts. Gave up drinking at 30 when they found the pancreas was enlarged.
Just about ready to watch this article but reading some of the comments and it really shows how bad a toxin alcohol really is for the body.i ocassionally have a drink 1 or 2 of a sat nite thinkn it was nice to relax with but an odd mad session every now and then but since turning 40 at December ive just lost all intrest in it i know how my body feels so great after 6 to 8 weeks not drinkn.i know my story isnt bad compared to some here but every bodys body is diff and 6 to 8 weeks i feel some diff.keep going strong and think of your future self and what you want to achieve by quitting
A couple of things here. Drinking alcohol is not the same as injecting it into your intestines straight up like dousing an external wound. By the time that wine gets into the intestines it is mostly absorbed through the stomach lining straight into the blood stream and metabolized by the liver. It never get’s that far down to the microbiome. Secondly, when the intestines process fibre it actually ferments into alcohol. That’s right, people who drink zero are carrying alcohol in their bodies all the time. So it can’t be totally foreign or evil to the body. What’s that saying ? The poison is in the dosage.
Drinking too much my employee had inflamed colon no pain but indigested food and he was losing weight. He usually drank 2-3 beers but too frequent almost every other day. Good thing quitting after 30 days he recovered completely using probotics cheese yougart pickles kambucha apparently and or other drugs his doctor gave him.
Ps at no point am I saying stop without professional health care.. I had no choice in it and having realised I’ve everything in common with bill Wilson life story addiction dependency picked to try not consume alcohol for 24 hour’s at a time. Starting with saying can have it now or in a hour’s time..
Carnivore helped me quit drinking. I was drinking every day and then around the 4 month mark my cravings went away. I am now 6 months carnivore and for the last 2 months I have been drinking once a week. Another couple months and I might be able to kick the habit. Today is day 5 without drinking and I have no desire to drink.
Thanks I found this website, I have been suffering from arthritis after I got a leaky gut due to the alcohol drinking and GERD I already stopped drinking now I have to find the solution or the right treatment for it no even sure what doctor I have to go yet (any help would be very much appreciated) . My fingers but mostly all my hands tendons hurts like crazy at night time very frustrating. Thanks again for the article.
There is something called ” restless leg syndrome” where it feels like electric jolts going down your legs and thighs (usually the outside) at night. This has been connected to irritable bowel syndrome and an unhealthy gut. Has anybody had experience with this? If so, if you quit drinking and restored normal healthy gut balance ecology did the restless leg syndrome vanish? Thank everyone in advance!
My uncle is 71 and has been getting drunk daily for about 40 years. He starts when he wakes up and continues until bedtime. Drinks at least a 12 pack a day or the equivalent amount of whiskey/wine. I thought he was going to die years ago but he seems fine and doesn’t have any major health issues. I’ve never seen him not drunk. If alcohol is so unhealthy, how can someone do this and live so long without major health issues??
The majority of people in England who live into their 90’s drink moderately. Of course, drinking beyond moderate is bad for you. I’ve drank about 2 drinks a week on average since going into the Army. I’m in my 80’s and in good health. My non-drinking friends are having much more health problems than me. Just saying, this one size fits all. You know, alcohol kills good germs on your skin when you apply it to a cut, for example. And science says the germs grow back in less than a minute. By the way, a long time ago a Sociology study showed if you were taught alcohol was bad you are far more likely to become an alcoholic. This has zero to do with the effects of alcohol. It has everything to do with your emotions.
Like many young men in the 1970’s during my years in University and well beyond, I used alcohol moderately, and once in a while, quite heavily. As I aged, I noticed I could just not tolerate alcohol as well. Long story short, by the time I was 50, I realized that alcohol was just another thing that was sold to the public as safe and even sexy – much as cigarettes were in the 50’s and 60′. I don’t drink at all now – I see alcohol as another poison. I don’t miss it or have even a slight desire for it, in fact, I respect my good gut bacteria that work with me everyday to make me healthy and strong. They are my allies. Why poison them?
Turmeric is a good anti-inflammatory, best taken with black pepper which aids it absorbtion. Beetroot cleanses your liver. In the UK you can buy those Yakult things, I think they are fermented drinks.. and just eat healthy. As the big man says, best not to drink alcohol..(tho red wine does have resveratrol in it which helps you with aging and they give resveratrol to astronauts) tho best not to avoid alcohol…x
alcohol is a virus coded in the matrix as a “mood enhancing substance.” when you drink, the positive effects you feel trick your mind into thinking they greatly outweigh the negative effects afterwards. the more you drink over time, the more you have to drink to *feel the same positive effects, meanwhile negative effects are increasing. finally, the more you drink, the more you come to depend on alcohol to function, while the quality of your life and in fact your life itself is deteriorating.
I actually don’t believe all this. Alcohol is almost completely absorbed in the stomach and upper small intestine. Neither of these sites are locations that harbor much in the way of the microbiota which is located mostly in the large intestine. Alcohol does increase intestinal permeability but it’s transient. There are no studies that show small amounts of occasional alcohol have detrimental long-term effects, and several studies that often show an increase in life span in those that consume small amounts of alcohol. Just because we know some mechanisms of alcohol that “might” be harmful, we can’t purport that this is necessarily harming us. And often things that “harm” us temporarily, actually stimulate the body to do things in response, leading to an overall net gain in health.
Simultaneously liked and disliked what you had to say….. I make a few cocktails a week, 2/3 usually because I enjoy the process, the taste, exploring new spirits etc. Trouble is they tend to have at least 3oz of spirit in them. Bummer. I suspect this explains why my body feels weary the day after instead of a headache….
Chronic alcohol consumption disrupts the gut-brain-liver axis, leading to inflammation, altered gut microbiota, and increased alcohol consumption. Highlights: 🍷 Alcohol’s Pleasure and Impact: Alcohol enjoyment is acknowledged, but moderate occasional consumption doesn’t pose major health risks. Regular, chronic patterns disrupt the gut-brain-liver axis. 🧠 Gut-Brain-Liver Axis: The gut, brain, and liver communicate via neurons and chemicals. Alcohol affects this communication, with the liver metabolizing it into pro-inflammatory compounds. 🦠 Gut Microbiome Disruption: Alcohol kills healthy gut bacteria, leading to an imbalance in gut microbiota. This disruption triggers leaky gut, allowing harmful bacteria to enter the bloodstream. 🔥 Inflammation and Brain Impact: Alcohol’s metabolism prompts inflammation, releasing cytokines. Inflammatory molecules reach the brain, causing neural circuit disruptions that drive increased alcohol consumption. 🔄 Cycle of Inflammation: Chronic alcohol consumption creates a cycle of gut-brain inflammation, promoting more drinking and exacerbating gut leakiness. 🍻 Alcohol Use Disorder: This harmful scenario is common in alcohol use disorder, particularly when ingesting 12-24 drinks weekly.
Wow!! This short clip really hit me and called my attention specially because you look so hyper! You move so much more from any other article and look down and read from some notes! Is so different from everything I’ve seen from you!! Don’t get me wrong!!! I’m not judging you if anything I’m judging myself and my drinking habits!!
2 myths out there. Not for aspartame in diet drinks though or in red wine consumption (seperate but misquoted constantly topic). Aspartame from Diet Coke does not destroy the microbiome. This has been studied in US sponsored clinical trials see 2 official trials concluding aspartame is not harmful to gut microbiota, nor does it shift or change it in any way- Tordoff and Alleva – Human trial 590 mg (3 Diet Cokes in one sitting) Ingestion and dietary record -Aspartame reduced sugar intake; no effects on gut microbiota. No change. Also a small amount of red wine per God is good for the body and that’s backed by research and trials too. Red wine studies also had no change to microbiota and did not harm it or change in any way in trials…
For God so loved the world, That He have His only begotten son, so that whosoever believes in Him would be saved. (John 3:16, Bible). We have all broken God’s moral law and have gotten the death penalty. However, Jesus lived a perfect life in order to take our place and endure the wrath of God. He did this because He loves us so much! Repent from sin and trust in what Jesus did for you so your sins can be forgiven and forgotten. <3
I lose occasionally to the urges and triggering cravings resulting in a night of intoxication and loads of nights day’s not lossing to urges in the simplicity of I can drink smoke pop pills right now or I can later.. AA will blow smoke up bum but once you find a speaker’s who tell the truth, modern revised AA only work’s for a minority 4 to 25% and it’s those who have accessed a recovery programme and detox.. Try except said truth and attend said meetings help self as Dr bob and bill Wilson did.. Do the programme to best of ability because you not getting any practical assistance to detox and recovery programme once provide by Dr bob and and nun hospital? As a baby crawl? Then walk run? Okay teach self via sleep hypnotherapy to walk crawl and over time you will be able to run ?