University of Glasgow Cirrhosis of the Liver Study

[Riverkilt]

Just published the link to the study for those interested.

What is sad for me is how young so many of us start drinking. In the U.S.A. the drinking age is 21 when everything else is legal at 18 because the human liver does not mature until age 21.

So many young people begin heavy drinking in their youth and easily become addicted and build a high tolerance early on. High tolerance means it takes a lot more alcohol (carrier vehicle doesn't matter. Alcohol is alcohol no matter what beverage its in) to keep that wonderful buzz.

The more alcohol a human consumes the more damage is done to their body by alcohol and its metabolite acetaldehyde. Young organs have little chance against such chemical assault.

While its impossible - finding a way to keep youth from alcohol until their liver matures and they have a chance so be social drinkers rather than alcoholics - would go far in reducing alcohol related deaths.

Here in the U.S.A the American Medical Association believes that more than five drinks in one day is binge drinking. A drink being a regular beer or a shot. Four drinks for ladies.

And of course alcoholism is a disease that tells us we don't have a problem.

It was sad to see this particular study because it indicates that many Scots have crossed the line from social drinking to alcoholism.

Hope I'm not preaching here. Intent is to point out the study and increase awareness of a very real danger.

Ron

[ghostlight]

In the U.S.A. the drinking age is 21 when everything else is legal at 18 because the human liver does not mature until age 21.

I had no idea there was a biological reason for the specified age.

I'm embarrassed to admit I thought the choice was politically motivated.