Last week alcohol and bodybuilding was discussed. This week is somewhat of a continuation. If you are someone who works out but imbibes habitually or just now and then, keep reading.
Alcohol is a carbohydrate, but it does not convert to glucose like most carbs do. Instead it converts into a fatty acid and is consequently more likely to be stored in the body as fat. So, if you drink alcohol and exercise, you are effectively putting your metabolism on hold.
The caloric content of alcohol is seven calories per gramme. A shot of gin contains around 110 calories, while a 12 oz beer contains 146 calories, 13 grammes of carbs, and some vitamins and minerals.
The effects of alcohol on the body
Alcohol is the most abused drug in the Americas and it affects many people’s lives. It is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant.
The central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord and along with the peripheral nervous system comprise a primary division of controls that command all physical activities of a human.
Neurons of the central nervous system affect consciousness and mental activity while spinal extensions of central nervous system neuron pathways affect skeletal muscles and organs in the body.
This means that there is very little difference in the amount of alcohol that will get you drunk and the amount that will kill you. The reason more persons don’t die from alcohol poisoning, is because the stomach begins to reject it by vomiting.
Acute alcohol intoxication can result in tremors, anxiety and irritability, nausea, decreased mental function and vertigo. Chronic alcohol use leads to internal destruction of the liver, heart, brain, muscle and cancer in any or all of them.
Research has shown that small amounts of alcohol may benefit the body. This means a 12 oz beer or a small glass of wine. However, to get the most out of the drink, going with a darker, less processed product is best. Darker beers and wines offer more nutrients.
When it comes to your workouts or athletic competition, alcohol impairs balance and coordination since it affects that CNS. Strength and power are also affected since it dehydrates the body, making muscle and other tissue unable to work optimally.
Conclusion
To conclude, if you’re spending your hard-earned money and time working out to get the physique that you desire, you may be wasting it all away by too much elbow bending.
