5 Myths About Alcohol Abuse vs. the Facts

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5 Myths About Alcohol Abuse vs. the Facts

It is estimated that one in 12 adults in the United States has an alcohol problem. Despite the fact that alcohol abuse and alcoholism are extremely common problems, there are still a lot of misconceptions about alcohol. Below is a list of some of the most common myths about alcohol abuse.

Understanding the Myths About Alcohol Abuse

Humans tend to believe “old wives tales” and other half-truths only because it fits into their concept of what they want to be the truth.  For that reason, many old-time adages have caused far too many people to experience serious problems with alcohol.

Some of those misguided myths about alcohol abuse are as follows:

  • Myth: If You Eat Before Going to Bed, it Will Reduce a Hangover

    Fact:  Many people eat a big meal before going to bed after a night of drinking. They think that eating before going to bed will help prevent a hangover. Eating does not have much of an effect on a hangover. However, eating a meal before you start drinking can contribute to slow down alcohol absorption.

  • Myth: Light Beer is Always a Healthier Choice

    Fact:  Many people think that drinking light beer is healthier than regular beer. Even though light beer has fewer calories than regular beer, it is not necessarily healthier. It is important to note that the number of calories in a beverage is not the only thing that determines how healthy it is. Furthermore, many people think that they can drink more if they stick to light beer.

  • Myth: You Can Sober Up by Taking a Shower or Drinking Coffee

    Fact:  Many people think that they can sober up more quickly by taking a shower or drinking coffee. However, time is the only thing that can sober you up. Drinking caffeinated coffee can make things worse. Caffeine is a stimulant, so it can cause you to stay awake longer. This is one of the more popular myths about alcohol abuse.

  • Myth: You Can Reduce Your Chances of Hangover by Taking Aspirin Before You Drink

    Fact:  Many people think that taking a painkiller will help prevent a hangover. However, that is a big misconception. Taking a painkiller before you have any pain does not help you. It is also important to note that taking Aspirin or any other painkiller while drinking can be very dangerous, especially for the stomach, liver, and kidneys. Painkillers have a tendency to erode the stomach lining. If you take a painkiller while drinking, then the damage may be even worse. However, a painkiller can help temporarily alleviate pain.

  • Myth: Drinking Alcohol Before Bed Can Make It Easier for You to Fall Asleep

    Fact:  You may have an easier time falling asleep after a night of drinking. However, it will probably be harder for you to stay asleep. Studies have shown that drinking alcohol helps disrupt rapid eye movement or REM sleep.

Why Inpatient Rehab is Ideal for People With a Drinking Problem

It is very easy for a drinking problem to get out of hand. Fortunately, inpatient rehab can help. Inpatient rehab gives people all of the resources and guidance they need to stay sober. It also helps people stay alcohol-free for life. Debunking certain myths about alcohol abuse or alcoholism can help a person understand that maybe there is a bigger need to get their loved one help.

NOTE:  April 2015 is National Alcohol Awareness Month sponsored by NCADD (National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc.) Also, the weekend of April 3rd – 5th is National Alcohol-Free Weekend, both designed to raise awareness of the dangerous effects of alcohol abuse on a person’s mind and body, and the consequences suffered by friends and loved ones of the alcoholic. Learn more about this effort and find out how you can participate.

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