Alcoholism and Nutrition

Damage can result from over indulgence

Alcoholics sometimes consume as much as 20 percent of their total calories in alcohol. A diet high in alcohol is nutritionally inadequate in many respects.

The chronic alcoholic is at high risk for developing many nutritional deficiencies. Alcoholics sometimes consume as much as 20 percent of their total calories in alcohol. A diet high in alcohol is nutritionally inadequate in many respects.

Nutritional deficiencies can result

The nutrients most often lacking among heavy drinkers are protein, the B vitamins (such as thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, pyridoxine and folic acid), and minerals such as magnesium, potassium and zinc. Alcoholics are likely to suffer from any of three nutritional deficiencies: Polyneuropathy, which is a thiamine deficiency; pellagra, which is a niacin deficiency; and fatty liver, which is caused by eating too little protein. Fatty liver can lead to cirrhosis, a liver condition which may be fatal.

Because the alcoholic substitutes alcohol for food, the individual may develop one of these deficiencies. The more calories consumed as alcohol, the less food is eaten. Even though an alcoholic may satisfy his appetite with calories obtained from alcohol, he may not get enough vitamins, minerals and proteins. Alcohol, which is high in calories, has no other nutrients. One gram of alcohol supplies 7 calories, as compared to one gram of carbohydrate or protein, both of which supply 4 calories. One gram of fat supplies 9 calories.

Heavy drinkers may also damage their intestinal tracts. This damage to the intestinal tract may lessen the body's ability to absorb what nutrients are consumed.

A few simple rules

The best rule to follow in regard to alcohol is use in moderation. At social events, make available nonalcoholic drinks such as fruit juice, soft drinks, coffee or tea. Eating food while drinking can slow down the rate your body absorbs alcohol. Eating can also lessen the effects resulting from drinking on an empty stomach.

If you're pregnant, don't drink. No safe level of alcohol intake during pregnancy has been established, so it's better to avoid alcohol completely during pregnancy. If you're taking a drug of any kind, don't drink. Alcohol can either increase the potency of certain drugs or destroy the effectiveness of the drug altogether. Either situation can cause serious illness or death.

For more Information on alcoholism and nutrition, contact your local county Extension office.