20th November 2023
The holiday season is just around the corner, and whilst like many, I do enjoy an alcoholic drink, I wanted to share a bit of information about its effect on health and particularly training.
Alcohol interferes with the body’s ability to recover and adapt to exercise. It dehydrates the system, hindering muscle repair and growth. Alcohol also impairs sleep quality, a crucial component of the recovery process. Inadequate sleep disrupts hormonal balance, affecting metabolism and energy levels, which can hinder training progress. Alcohol acts as a depressant on the central nervous system, meaning it can lower mood and trigger anxiety.
Binge drinking, characterised by consuming large quantities of alcohol in a short period, poses an even greater threat. It can lead to inflammation, weaken the immune system, and damage organs, compromising the body’s ability to withstand the physical demands of training.
So as Christmas party season approaches, I’ll just say this… while occasional, moderate alcohol consumption may not derail your fitness journey, it’s crucial to be mindful of the potential pitfalls associated with excessive drinking on both your training and overall mental and physical health. Striking a balance between social enjoyment and fitness goals is key!
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