Use of Oral Contraceptives and Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption among women has increased significantly in recent years, making it essential to understand how it interacts with the use of oral contraceptives.

Impact of Alcohol on the Effectiveness of Oral Contraceptives

Although there are no conclusive studies showing that alcohol directly reduces the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, excessive drinking may indirectly compromise their effectiveness. The main reason is that alcohol can cause a person to forget to take the pill at the correct time.

Another relevant factor is the impact of alcohol in cases of vomiting (1). If someone consumes large amounts of alcohol and vomits within two hours of taking the birth control pill, the medication may not be fully absorbed by the body, reducing its effectiveness.

In addition, excessive alcohol consumption, including episodes of binge drinking, is associated with a higher risk of medical complications such as blood clots in the lungs or legs (2). Some women are already at increased risk of developing clots due to the use of hormonal contraceptives, and heavy alcohol use can heighten that risk (2,3).

Importance of Contraceptive Choice and Medical Guidance

While alcohol does not appear to directly compromise the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, excessive consumption can affect adherence to the method and pose additional health risks. Besides the pill, there are other contraceptive methods that may be more suitable for some women, such as hormonal IUDs, implants, and contraceptive injections, which do not require daily administration and may be less prone to failure due to inconsistent use.

Therefore, it is essential for each woman to seek medical guidance to choose the contraceptive method that best suits her lifestyle and health history. Talking to a healthcare professional can help clarify questions about the possible impacts of alcohol and ensure a safe and effective contraceptive choice.

References:

1. Planned Parenthood. (2015, June 22). Does drinking alcohol affect how well my birth control works
2. Ballard, H. S. (1997). The hematological complications of alcoholism. Alcohol health and research world, 21(1), 42-52.

3. Shen, C. J., Kao, C. H., Hsu, T. Y., Chen, C. Y., Lin, C. L., & Shih, H. M. (2017). Effect of alcohol intoxication on the risk of venous thromboembolism: A nationwide retrospective cohort study. Medicine, 96(42), e8041.

Korean study highlights impact of frequent alcohol consumption on healthcare costs

Frequent alcohol consumption has a significant economic impact on healthcare systems, generating substantial additional costs and requiring specific public policies to reduce them. A recent study conducted in South Korea identified significant increases in healthcare costs associated with frequent alcohol consumption.

A recent study (1) conducted in South Korea analyzed data from a longitudinal cohort of 62,965 adults aged 40 to 69 years, with the aim of investigating the additional healthcare costs associated with frequent alcohol consumption. Using information collected by the National Health Insurance Service of Korea (NHIS-NSC), the study followed participants over a decade, allowing a detailed assessment of the costs related to different levels of alcohol consumption in the long term.

The results highlighted that frequent alcohol consumption has a significant economic impact on healthcare costs. Men who consumed alcohol almost daily had 21.4% higher costs compared to non-drinkers. Among women, the impact was even more significant, with an increase of 31.8%, corresponding to additional annual expenditures of up to US$433 for women and US$284 for men.

The study also showed that the frequency of consumption plays a crucial role in costs. Among men, moderate consumption (1 to 2 times per month or week) was associated with lower costs compared to non-consumers. However, as frequency increased to 3 or more times per week, health expenditures increased significantly.

These findings emphasize the relevance of public policies focused on reducing frequent and excessive alcohol consumption to alleviate the financial burden on health systems.

Based on the findings, some practical recommendations are important:

1. Strengthen educational campaigns on the economic and health risks related to frequent and excessive alcohol consumption.

1. Implement preventive programs and specific interventions for groups that consume alcohol almost daily.

1. Promote strategies for responsible consumption, especially among vulnerable groups, such as women and older adults.

References:

1. Kim Y. The effects of smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and physical inactivity on healthcare costs: a longitudinal cohort study. BMC Public Health. 2025;25:873. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-025-22133-4..

Wine Consumption and Health: Study Suggests Protective Effect of Polyphenols Against Metabolic Syndrome

A recent study investigated the relationship between the consumption of polyphenols, found in foods and beverages such as wine, in the diet and the risk of metabolic syndrome in Brazilian adults. The findings indicate that higher intake of polyphenols is associated with a lower chance of developing metabolic syndrome, suggesting that diets rich in these substances may play a protective role against cardiometabolic risk factors.

A study (1) conducted using data from the Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brazil) analyzed the association between polyphenol intake (found in foods such as fruits, coffee, chocolate, and wine) and the incidence of metabolic syndrome, considering cardiometabolic risk factors. Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of risk factors, such as abdominal obesity, hypertension, altered cholesterol levels, and high blood glucose, that increase the likelihood of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and other health problems. Treatment and prevention are based on lifestyle changes, such as healthy eating, physical activity, and weight management.

The research evaluated 6,387 participants, with a mean age of 49.8 years, of whom 65% were women. Dietary intake was estimated using a semi-quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire, and polyphenol intake was calculated using the Phenol-Explorer database.

Key Findings
Metabolic syndrome was defined according to the Joint Interim Statement criteria, and associations between polyphenol intake and cardiometabolic risk factors were assessed using logistic regression. During a median follow-up of 8.19 years, 2,031 participants developed metabolic syndrome. Individuals in the higher tertiles of total polyphenol intake had a lower risk of metabolic syndrome compared to those in the lowest tertile. After adjusting for sociodemographic factors, lifestyle, and diet, the risk was 22% lower in the second tertile and 23% lower in the third tertile of polyphenol intake (T2 vs. T1: OR 0.78 [95% CI: 0.68-0.90]; T3 vs. T1: OR 0.77 [95% CI: 0.66-0.90]).

Additionally, inverse associations were observed between the risk of metabolic syndrome and the consumption of phenolic acids, lignans, stilbenes, and other polyphenols. Although total flavonoid intake did not show a significant association, subclasses such as flavan-3-ols (monomers and polymers) demonstrated a protective effect. Total polyphenol intake was also inversely associated with waist-to-hip ratio, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, HOMA-IR, triglycerides, and C-reactive protein, while showing a positive association with total cholesterol, LDL, and HDL.

Implications and Limitations of the Study
The findings reinforce the importance of polyphenol-rich diets, such as those based on fruits, vegetables, and other natural foods, in reducing cardiometabolic risk. Adopting dietary habits that prioritize sources of polyphenols may contribute to strategies for preventing metabolic syndrome and promoting cardiovascular health. Furthermore, these results could support nutritional recommendations and public policies aimed at improving the food quality of the Brazilian population.

However, some caveats should be considered:

• The study assessed dietary habits at a single point in time, which may not reflect changes over time.
• Individuals with higher cardiometabolic risk may have adopted healthier diets during the study, influencing the results.
• Consumption of these foods should follow a nutritional profile: fruits can be consumed in larger quantities, while chocolates and wines should be consumed in moderation.
• The analysis used Odds Ratio (OR) in a longitudinal study, whereas Relative Risk (RR) or Hazard Ratio (HR) would be more appropriate, as OR tends to inflate results for common outcomes.

Conclusion
The findings suggest that the consumption of polyphenols, including those present in red wine, may be associated with a lower risk of metabolic syndrome and its components. However, the role of wine in health should be evaluated within the context of a balanced diet and within the limits of moderate alcohol consumption.

References:

1. Carnauba RA, Sarti FM, Coutinho CP, Hassimotto NMA, Marchioni DM, Lotufo PA, Bensenor IM, Lajolo FM. Associations between polyphenol intake, cardiometabolic risk factors and metabolic syndrome in the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil). J Nutr [Internet]. 2024 Nov 26. Disponível em: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tjnut.2024.11.016.

American Research Suggests Semaglutide May Help Reduce Alcohol Cravings and Consumption

A recent clinical trial conducted in the United States investigated the impact of semaglutide, a medication used to treat diabetes and obesity, on reducing alcohol consumption. The findings suggest that the use of this medication may help decrease both the craving for and the amount of alcohol consumed, opening new perspectives for the treatment of alcohol use disorder (AUD).

A new study (1) published in JAMA Psychiatry suggests that semaglutide, a drug originally developed for diabetes and obesity, may also have a positive impact on reducing alcohol consumption. The study was a phase 2 randomized clinical trial conducted in the United States, involving adults diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (AUD). The results showed that weekly doses of semaglutide helped reduce alcohol consumption and the craving for alcoholic beverages.

The study included 48 participants who were not seeking treatment for AUD. They were divided into two groups: one receiving semaglutide and the other a placebo. After nine weeks of treatment, participants who used semaglutide consumed significantly less alcohol than those in the placebo group. The study also showed a reduction in binge drinking episodes and a decrease in the desire to drink.

How Can Semaglutide Influence Alcohol Consumption?

Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), which affect appetite regulation and the brain's reward system. Preclinical studies had already suggested that GLP-1RAs could influence alcohol consumption behavior by reducing the pleasure associated with drinking.

In the clinical study, participants treated with semaglutide consumed less alcohol when subjected to a laboratory test of self-administration of alcoholic beverages. The researchers also noted that semaglutide did not directly affect the number of days participants drank, but it reduced the amount consumed per drinking day.

Possible Clinical Implications

Although the results are promising, the authors highlight that larger studies are needed to confirm the findings and assess the safety of long-term use of semaglutide for treating AUD. Currently, less than 10% of individuals with alcohol use disorder receive pharmacological treatment. If its effectiveness is confirmed, semaglutide could become a new option for people who want to reduce alcohol consumption without completely abstaining.

What Does This Mean for Those Who Want to Reduce Alcohol Consumption?

If you are concerned about your alcohol consumption pattern, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before considering any medication. The study suggests that semaglutide may help reduce alcohol consumption, but it is not a universal solution. Other approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and social support, remain essential for managing AUD.

With more research, semaglutide may represent an innovative therapeutic option in the future. For now, the best strategy for maintaining balanced alcohol consumption remains self-awareness, moderation, and professional support.

References:

1. Hendershot CS, Bremmer MP, Paladino MB, et al. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults With Alcohol Use Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Psychiatry. 2025. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2024.4789.

Why Alcohol Can Cause Anxiety the Day After Consumption

Many people report feeling anxious after excessive alcohol consumption, especially the morning after a binge. This phenomenon, sometimes called “hangxiety” (a combination of the words hangover and anxiety), refers to the feelings of unease, nervousness, and discomfort that occur during a hangover. In fact, a hangover includes not only physical symptoms (such as headache, nausea, fatigue) but also negative emotional and cognitive effects (1).

Anxiety and irritability are among the mood symptoms reported during a hangover, although they occur less frequently compared to physical symptoms. For example, in a study with 1,837 young adults, about 22.6% reported feeling anxious during a hangover (in comparison, 34.2% reported feeling depressed) (2). This "hangover anxiety" can worsen the discomfort of the following day and interfere with daily activities, making it important to understand why it happens and how to prevent it.

Biological Mechanisms Involved

Several biological mechanisms help explain why alcohol can leave the body in an anxious state. Initially, during intoxication, alcohol acts as a depressant on the central nervous system (CNS), increasing the activity of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA and reducing the activity of the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate. The body tries to compensate for this effect: after a period of repeated or intense consumption, it reduces the sensitivity/quantity of GABA receptors and increases the number of glutamate receptors to counterbalance the sedation caused by alcohol.

Thus, when alcohol leaves the bloodstream, a rebound effect occurs, with low GABAergic inhibitory signaling and excess glutamatergic excitatory activity, leaving the brain in a hyper-stimulated state. This state of "hyper-excitation" manifests in a manner similar to a mild withdrawal syndrome, activating the body's alert system and leading to symptoms such as tremors, sweating, increased heart rate, and anxiety. In other words, after the initial depressant effect of alcohol, the CNS "fires up," generating feelings of anxiety the next day due to the imbalance between inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters.

Another key factor involves the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, responsible for the stress response. High alcohol consumption can activate the HPA axis and elevate cortisol levels, the stress hormone. Normally, cortisol follows a daily rhythm (higher in the morning and decreasing in the evening), but alcohol disrupts this rhythm, and this misalignment can contribute to feelings of anxiety.

Recently, science has highlighted the role of the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) system, a neuropeptide central to the stress response, in modulating alcohol’s effects on mood. Specifically, two CRF receptors (known as CRF1 and CRF2) have opposite functions in the context of alcohol consumption. According to a study in an animal model of binge drinking, immediately after an intense drinking episode, animals showed anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and even antidepressant responses mediated by the activation of CRF2 receptors. However, after 24 hours, the same animals exhibited clear signs of anxiety and depression, this time related to the activation of CRF1 receptors (3).

Tips for Minimizing the Effects of Post-Alcohol Anxiety

Fortunately, it is possible to adopt strategies to reduce the chances of experiencing anxiety after drinking or at least lessen its intensity. Here are some practical tips:

• Take it easy on consumption: The most effective way to prevent hangover anxiety is to avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Know your limits and prefer to drink moderately, spacing the drinks over time.
• Stay hydrated and well-fed: Alcohol causes dehydration (it is diuretic) and can lead to low blood sugar and other imbalances that worsen discomfort. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water and avoid drinking on an empty stomach – have light meals before and during consumption.
• Don’t try to relieve symptoms with more alcohol: It may be tempting to have a drink when you wake up to alleviate the symptoms, but this is not recommended. While it may provide temporary relief (because alcohol will again activate GABA receptors, producing a sedative effect for a short period), this only masks the problem and can reinforce a dangerous cycle of consumption.
• Seek support if needed: If you find that you frequently experience intense anxiety after drinking or are using alcohol to cope with pre-existing anxiety, consider seeking professional help. A doctor or psychologist can guide you, whether to manage anxiety (with therapy or medication if indicated) or to adjust your drinking habits.

Feeling anxious the day after consuming alcohol is a relatively common experience, especially after episodes of excessive drinking. While intoxication may provide an apparent calming effect (anxiolytic), this is temporary – and even deceptive – because it will be followed by the discomfort of the hangover when alcohol is gone. Moderation or abstinence from alcohol consumption and simple health practices (hydration, rest) can make a significant difference in the quality of the following day and long-term mental well-being.

References:

1. Mackus, M., Loo, A. J. V., Garssen, J., Kraneveld, A. D., Scholey, A., & Verster, J. C. (2020). The Role of Alcohol Metabolism in the Pathology of Alcohol Hangover. Journal of clinical medicine, 9(11), 3421. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm9113421 
2. van Schrojenstein Lantman, M., Mackus, M., van de Loo, A. J. A. E., & Verster, J. C. (2017). The impact of alcohol hangover symptoms on cognitive and physical functioning, and mood. Human psychopharmacology, 32(5), e2623. https://doi.org/10.1002/hup.2623 
3. Simon, B., Thury, A. Á., Török, L., Földesi, I., Csabafi, K., & Bagosi, Z. (2023). The effects of alcohol on anxiety-like, depression-like, and social behavior immediately and a day after binge drinking. Alcohol (Fayetteville, N.Y.), 112, 17–24. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.alcohol.2023.05.004

Brazilian Study Highlights the Relationship Between Alcohol Consumption and Suicide in São Paulo Metro area

The harmful use of alcohol is a known risk factor for various forms of impulsive and violent behavior, including suicide. An observational study conducted in Brazil analyzed the relationship between blood alcohol levels and suicide cases in towns of the São Paulo metropolitan area, revealing associations between alcohol consumption and suicide deaths.

A recent study (1) with data from the Forensic Medical Institute of the State of São Paulo (IML-SP) and published in the journal Forensic Science, Medicine and Pathology investigated the relationship between alcohol consumption and suicides in four municipalities of Greater São Paulo: Franco da Rocha, Caieiras, Mairiporã, and Francisco Morato. The research analyzed data from 805 autopsies performed between 2001 and 2017, of which 41 cases were identified as suicides. The aim was to assess the presence of alcohol in the blood of the individuals and its possible influence on the suicidal act.

The results showed that 92.68% of the suicide victims had elevated blood alcohol concentrations (above 0.3 mg/dl), with particularly high averages in cases of hanging (2.3 mg/ml). Furthermore, the data indicated that most of the victims were male (85.36%), predominantly young adults aged 18 to 23 years. Among women, the most affected age group was 12 to 23 years, highlighting a concerning pattern of vulnerability among adolescents.

The researchers also observed that the use of more lethal methods, such as firearms and sharp objects, was associated with higher blood alcohol levels. These findings support the hypothesis that harmful alcohol consumption can increase impulsivity and lower inhibitions against self-destructive behavior.

Based on the findings, some recommendations are important:

• Prevention and Awareness: Suicide prevention programs should include strategies to address harmful alcohol use, especially among adolescents and young adults, who are at higher risk.
• Restriction of Access to Lethal Means: Measures such as controlling access to firearms, pesticides, and neurotropic medications can reduce the lethality of methods used in suicide attempts.
• Use of Peripheral Biomarkers: Screening individuals with suicidal ideation using peripheral biomarkers (biological substances in body fluids that indicate physiological processes, diseases, or responses to treatments) can be a valuable tool to identify those at risk.
• Protection in Public Spaces: Structures such as viaducts and bridges should be designed with safety measures to prevent intentional falls.

These recommendations are particularly relevant for regions with high socio-economic inequality, where alcohol consumption and suicide rates tend to be higher. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that the prevention of harmful alcohol use is an important factor that can significantly contribute to reducing suicide rates.

References:

1. Miziara, I.D., Miziara, C.S.M.G. Suicide victims and alcohol-related consumption in Brazil: An observational study and a narrative review of the literature. Forensic Science, Medicine and Pathology , 2023. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12024-023-00766-4.

How Many People Suffer from Alcoholism in Brazil and Around the World?

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), commonly known as alcoholism, is one of the most prevalent mental health conditions worldwide. However, its true extent is difficult to predict, as many cases remain undiagnosed (1) due to limited access to specialized healthcare services in various countries.

Global Alcohol Consumption and Health Impacts

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is characterized by a problematic pattern of alcohol consumption, leading to significant distress or impairment in various areas of life, such as work, relationships, and physical health. In 2019, it was estimated that around 400 million people aged 15 years and older were living with alcohol use disorders, with 209 million (52.3%) diagnosed with dependence. Globally, the prevalence of AUD was 5.1%, with a marked gender difference: 8.6% of men and 1.7% of women were affected in 2016 (2).

The prevalence of AUD tends to be higher in high-income countries (8.4%) and upper-middle-income countries (5.4%), suggesting the influence of socioeconomic factors on consumption patterns and alcohol availability. In contrast, low-income countries generally have lower prevalence rates, but may suffer from limited access to treatment and a higher prevalence of alcohol-related deaths.

The Situation in Brazil

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) also affects a significant portion of the Brazilian population. According to data from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) Global Burden of Disease (2024), presented on the platform Our World in Data (3), approximately 3.3% of the Brazilian population had alcohol use disorder in the 2010s. However, this rate has slightly decreased over recent decades, standing at about 2.9% in 2021. This reduction may reflect changes in access to information, public policies, and consumption patterns, although the prevalence remains high compared to other mental health disorders.

As with the prevalence of AUD, alcohol-attributable deaths in Brazil have also shown a trend of reduction over the last decade. According to the CISA publication Álcool e Saúde dos Brasileiros - Panorama 2024, the alcohol-attributable death rate fell from 36.7 to 30.4 per 100,000 inhabitants between 2010 and 2019. However, this trend was interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with a significant increase starting in 2020, reaching 32.5 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2022. These data emphasize the importance of sustainable and continuous public policies to address the impacts of alcohol on public health.

Facing the Problem: Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the existence of effective treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapies and medications, access to these interventions remains limited. In Brazil and other countries, addressing alcohol use disorder requires:

• Reducing stigma: Awareness campaigns can help promote a more informed and compassionate view of the disorder.
• Improving screening: The use of simple tools in primary healthcare units can facilitate early diagnosis.
• Investing in accessible treatments: Expanding specialized services and including innovative therapies is essential.

Alcohol Use Disorder is a public health issue with profound implications for individuals, families, and societies. Understanding its prevalence and associated factors is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment policies. By addressing stigma, improving screening, and expanding access to health care, it is possible to significantly reduce the impact of AUD on global health.

Remember, those suffering from this issue in Brazil can seek free help at any Basic Health Unit (health clinic) linked to the SUS (Unified Health System) or at units of the Psychosocial Care Centers for Alcohol and Drugs (CAPS-AD).

References:

1. Divya Ayyala-Somayajula, Jennifer L. Dodge, Adam M. Leventhal, et al. Trends in Alcohol Use After the COVID-19 Pandemic: A National Cross-Sectional Study. Ann Intern Med. [Epub 12 November 2024]. doi:10.7326/ANNALS-24-02157
2. Rehm J, Shield KD. Global Burden of Alcohol Use Disorders and Alcohol Liver Disease. 2019 Dec 13;7(4):99. doi: 10.3390/biomedicines7040099. PMID: 31847084; PMCID: PMC6966598. 
3. IHME, Global Burden of Disease (2024) – with major processing by Our World in Data. “Share of population with an alcohol use disorder”. IHME, Global Burden of Disease, “Global Burden of Disease - Prevalence and Incidence” [original data]. Retrieved January 27, 2025 from https://ourworldindata.org/grapher/share-with-alcohol-use-disorders

American Review Study Suggests That Moderate Alcohol Consumption is Associated with a Reduced Risk of Mortality from All Causes

Consumption of alcoholic beverages is widely practiced across various cultures, but scientific evidence shows that its harmful use is associated with a range of health risks. A review of evidence analyzed the impacts of alcohol consumption on several health conditions, including mortality from all causes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and neurocognitive effects.

A recent study (1) compiled by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, an entity of the United States Government, systematically reviewed the evidence on the impacts of alcohol on health. The methodology followed strict standards for systematic review, including searching recognized databases, selecting studies with predefined quality criteria, and assessing the risk of bias (study quality) by independent reviewers, following the highest standard in terms of scientific evidence. The goal was to evaluate the relationship between moderate alcohol consumption and various health outcomes, based on high-quality studies and systematic reviews.

An important requirement of the study was to establish a comparison group that did not include both people who have never drunk and former drinkers, as this could create an "abstinence bias." This bias could lead to misleading results, as the reasons for abstinence can vary significantly between these two groups, including people who have never drunk for religious reasons, and others who may have stopped drinking due to health issues. This bias could create a misleading impression that the health of non-drinkers is worse than that of moderate drinkers. By excluding this bias from the selected studies, the chances of obtaining more reliable results regarding the effects of moderate use on health are greater.

The results highlighted significant associations between alcohol consumption and various health conditions, including:

• Mortality from all causes: Moderate alcohol consumption was associated with a 16% reduction in the risk of mortality from all causes compared to abstainers (RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.81-0.87).
• Cardiovascular diseases: Moderate consumption was associated with a lower risk of myocardial infarction (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.68-0.90) and ischemic stroke (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.86-0.90).
• Cancer: Moderate alcohol consumption was associated with a 10% increase in the risk of breast cancer (RR 1.10, 95% CI 1.02-1.19), while evidence for other types of cancers remained inconsistent.
• Neurocognitive effects: The impact of alcohol consumption on neurocognition still shows conflicting results, with some evidence suggesting a negative relationship with cognitive decline.

Recommendations:

• Avoid excessive consumption: Moderation is essential to minimize the associated health risks.
• Attention to specific conditions: Individuals with pre-existing conditions such as liver diseases (cirrhosis, hepatitis), cardiovascular diseases (hypertension, heart failure), gastrointestinal diseases (gastritis, pancreatitis), neurological disorders (epilepsy), psychiatric conditions (depression, anxiety), diabetes, kidney diseases, or autoimmune diseases should avoid alcohol consumption, as it can affect treatment and the progression of these conditions, as well as pose additional health risks.
• Awareness of risks: It is important to inform the population about the impacts of alcohol consumption, even in moderate amounts.

These recommendations are particularly relevant for individuals in high-risk situations, such as those with cardiovascular diseases or a family history of cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that no amount of alcohol is absolutely safe. Pregnant women and minors, in particular, should completely avoid alcohol consumption due to the significant risks associated with these conditions.

References:

1. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Review of Evidence on Alcohol and Health. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press, 2025.

Drinking Alcohol and Flying: Health Risks During Long Flights

Consumption of alcoholic beverages on flights is a common practice, especially on long trips. However, studies show that this practice can pose health risks due to the combination of alcohol and the specific conditions in the aircraft cabin.

A study (1) conducted by the Institute of Aerospace Medicine at the German Aerospace Center investigated the effects of moderate alcohol consumption under simulated flight conditions. The goal was to analyze how the combination of alcohol with the specific conditions of the aircraft cabin, such as low pressure and reduced oxygenation, affects health and well-being, particularly during sleep.

Participants went through two experimental nights: on one, they consumed alcohol before sleeping; on the other, no alcohol was consumed. The sessions were carried out both under simulated flight conditions and at sea level. The results showed that those who consumed alcohol had a higher frequency of hypoxia (reduced oxygen levels in the blood) and increased heart rate during sleep. Additionally, the combination of alcohol and low atmospheric pressure intensified known negative effects, such as reduced sleep quality and oxygen saturation.

How Alcohol Affects the Body During a Flight:

• Dehydration: Alcohol contributes to dehydration, which is already exacerbated by the low humidity inside aircraft cabins.
• Reduced Oxygenation: The study indicates that alcohol consumption in low-pressure conditions (simulating cruising altitude) significantly reduces blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), potentially leading to prolonged periods of hypoxia (oxygen levels below 90%).
• Cardiovascular Changes: Alcohol combined with hypobaric conditions (2) (the reduction of atmospheric pressure at high altitudes) increases heart rate, placing more strain on the cardiovascular system.
• Impact on Sleep: Although alcohol helps with falling asleep, it reduces deep sleep phases, making rest less restorative. Additionally, alcohol can impair breathing during sleep, increasing the incidence of apnea and snoring episodes, contributing to worsened fatigue symptoms by the end of the flight (3).

Recommendations:

• Avoid alcohol consumption before and during the flight: This practice helps prevent dehydration, hypoxia, and excessive fatigue.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential to minimize the effects of low cabin humidity.
• Prioritize rest: Avoid substances that could interfere with sleep quality, such as alcohol, coffee, and other caffeinated drinks, especially on long flights.

These precautions are particularly important for individuals with pre-existing conditions, such as respiratory or cardiovascular diseases (4). Raising passenger awareness about the risks associated with alcohol consumption during flights can be an effective measure to improve the safety and comfort of air travel.

References:

1. Trammer RA, Rooney D, Benderoth S, Wittkowski M, Wenzel J, Elmenhorst EM. Effects of moderate alcohol consumption and hypobaric hypoxia: implications for passengers' sleep, oxygen saturation and heart rate on long-haul flights. Thorax. 2024 Sep 18;79(10):970-978. doi: 10.1136/thorax-2023-220998. PMID: 38830667.
2. Petrassi FA, Hodkinson PD, Walters PL, Gaydos SJ. Hypoxic hypoxia at moderate altitudes: review of the state of the science. Aviat Space Environ Med. 2012 Oct;83(10):975-84. doi: 10.3357/asem.3315.2012. PMID: 23066620.
3. Park SY, Oh MK, Lee BS, Kim HG, Lee WJ, Lee JH, Lim JT, Kim JY. The Effects of Alcohol on Quality of Sleep. Korean J Fam Med. 2015 Nov;36(6):294-9. doi: 10.4082/kjfm.2015.36.6.294. Epub 2015 Nov 20. PMID: 26634095; PMCID: PMC4666864.
4. Seccombe LM, Peters MJ. Physiology in medicine: acute altitude exposure in patients with pulmonary and cardiovascular disease. J Appl Physiol (1985). 2014 Mar 1;116(5):478-85. doi: 10.1152/japplphysiol.01013.2013. Epub 2013 Dec 26. PMID: 24371015.

Health Care During the Summer Holidays

Summer holidays are a time for relaxing, but they also require extra attention to health. CISA – the Center for Information on Health and Alcohol – highlights the importance of practices that promote well-being and prevent excesses that could compromise health and enjoyment during this special period.

Despite the relaxed atmosphere, the holidays can bring challenges when it comes to maintaining healthy habits. From food and drink choices to managing rest time, taking care of your health is essential to celebrate with vitality and energy. Here are some tips for enjoying the holidays in a healthy way:

• Moderation in food and alcohol consumption: Opt for lighter, balanced meals paired with good hydration, especially on hotter days. When it comes to alcoholic beverages, it's important to respect your limits and alternate with water.
• Attention to rest: The holidays are marked by many activities and gatherings, but it's essential to prioritize adequate sleep. A good night's rest helps maintain energy and emotional balance.
• Practice empathy and inclusion: Not everyone drinks alcohol or follows the same habits. Be inclusive and respectful, creating a comfortable environment for everyone.
• Care with heat: Outdoor moments require special attention to hydration. Water and natural juices are the best options for combating the heat without overloading your body.
• Plan ahead: Organizing your commitments well helps avoid overload and allows you to make the most of each moment. Remember to take breaks and respect your limits.

With these simple measures, the summer holidays can be enjoyed with health and safety. Enjoy every moment, but don’t forget that taking care of yourself is essential to start the new year with energy and vitality.