Drinking alcohol grew into a socially acceptable activity in multiple societies, starting in the Neolithic period. From the earliest traces of brewing, which happened about 10,000 years ago, to former trade negotiations and family celebrations – the use of alcohol intertwined with people’s everyday life.
In the U.S., data from the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) shows that over 85 percent of adults aged 18 and older admitted to drinking alcohol at some point in their life, with more than 25 percent engaging in binge drinking. And although light-to-moderate drinking may bring some health benefits, including lowering the risk of heart disease and reducing stress, long-term excessive drinking can wreak havoc on the brain.
But when does the line between a couple of occasional drinks and heavy drinking begin to blur? How much is too much for alcohol to start affecting the brain?
Having a pint ...
