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Published Jan 11, 2023

The Health Effects of Alcohol: Hormones & Brain Health with Dr. Aviva Romm & Louisa Nicola

Liz Moody, Dr. Aviva Romm, and Louisa Nicola delve into the complex effects of alcohol on mental health, hormones, and brain function, unraveling its impact on neurotransmitter balance, hormonal health, neuroplasticity, and potential risks like breast cancer. They provide strategies for mitigating these effects and emphasize mindful consumption to maintain well-being.
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  • Menstrual Cycles

    Alcohol consumption can significantly impact menstrual cycles, potentially leading to irregularities and exacerbating conditions like PCOS and endometriosis. explains that even moderate drinking can suppress progesterone, increase testosterone, and elevate estrogen levels, which may worsen these conditions 1. She suggests that eliminating alcohol for six weeks can help regulate cycles, as alcohol affects the gut microbiome and hormone elimination 2.

    Alcohol in general can make a huge difference on sleep.

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    Additionally, alcohol disrupts circadian rhythms, further affecting hormonal balance and menstrual health 3.

       

    Breast Cancer

    The link between alcohol consumption and breast cancer risk is alarming, especially for women with pre-existing risk factors. highlights that even low levels of alcohol intake, such as one to three drinks a week, can increase breast cancer risk by up to 5% 1. This risk is compounded for women with a family history of breast cancer, making moderation crucial.

    Alcohol is the only known substance, food wise, or that we ingest, that's actually been proven to be associated with an up to 5% increased risk.

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    She advises limiting alcohol to one or two drinks a week, particularly avoiding wine, which seems to have the most significant impact on hormone disruption 4.

       

    Cortisol & Stress

    Alcohol's impact on cortisol levels can exacerbate stress and disrupt hormone balance. notes that alcohol may be perceived by the body as a stressor, increasing cortisol and potentially worsening conditions like endometriosis 5. This stress response can lead to inflammation and hormonal imbalances, affecting overall health.

    Alcohol itself directly affects the hypothalamus and the pituitary and changes the way that clock is reading time.

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    Additionally, alcohol disrupts the circadian rhythm, impacting the release of hormones and leading to irregular cycles and fertility issues 6.

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