The Effects of Alcohol on Athletic Performance

The Effects of Alcohol on Athletic Performance
 

Athletes rely on their bodies and their physical endurance, which is hindered by drinking alcohol. The effects of alcohol on athletic performance can become extreme since motor skills, aerobic performance, and recovery from training are manipulated. Alcohol does not affect everyone the same. There are numerous factors involved, including the type of alcohol that is being abused.

Does Drinking Affect Athletic Performance?

Yes, drinking does affect athletic performance. Excessive drinking can lead to alcoholic athletes who neglect their training and threaten their careers. Alcohol is used for celebrations or as a reward for the week’s training and the challenging work behind a win. Factors such as genetics, gender, the amount, and type of alcohol consumed, and the overall body mass and health of a person determine the severity of the side effects of alcohol.

Alcohol in the blood increases after consumption, resulting in slowed signals in the central nervous system. The disruption decreases coordination efficiency and delays reactions and reasonable judgment. The long-term effects of alcohol can cause organ failure, cognitive decline, and improper brain functioning, which makes training extremely difficult.

How Does Alcohol Affect Working Out?

Beer has received influence for being a so-called recovery beverage since it contains carbohydrates and electrolytes; however, not enough to help an athlete fully recover. The negative effects outweigh the positive, and an athlete is at risk of substance abuse if drinking becomes excessive. Here are some effects of alcohol on muscle development and recovery after working out:

  • Impairs memory
  • Slows reaction time
  • Depletes energy levels
  • Nutritional deficiencies
  • Impairs muscle growth
  • Cardiovascular problems
  • Prevents muscle recovery
  • Inhibits nutrient absorption
  • Irregular eating patterns
  • Weight loss or gain

Alcohol and muscle recovery do not go hand in hand, and neither do alcohol and exercise. For an athlete to perform their best, proper nutrient intake, sleep, and training consistently with substantial energy are required. Alcohol affects athletic performance since it can cause a lack of sleep, which causes a higher risk of injury, and hormones manipulate muscle growth and vitality. In addition, alcohol depletes testosterone secretion, which is needed for hormonal balance during the recovery process.

Alcohol and athletic performance can determine the fate of an athlete's long-term health and the duration of a career. Drunk athletes who are drinking before, during, or after training should consider seeking an alcohol addiction treatment program to avoid the chronic effects of alcoholism.

Addiction Treatment at Our Rehabs in Palm Springs

At Banyan Treatment Centers Palm Springs, we offer an excellent alcohol detox program that helps patients be safely guided through the withdrawal symptoms. We pride ourselves on maintaining a clean and secure establishment for patients to express themselves and receive the treatment they need to properly recover from substance abuse. We offer unique programs like our 12-step program, which produces a successful method to overcome addiction and prevent relapse.

 

Speak to a specialist at Banyan Palm Springs by calling 888-280-4763 and asking about our residential treatment program to get started on the path to recovery today!

 

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Alyssa
Alyssa
Alyssa who is the National Director of Digital Marketing, joined the Banyan team in 2016, bringing her five-plus years of experience. She has produced a multitude of integrated campaigns and events in the behavioral health and addictions field. Through strategic marketing campaign concepts, Alyssa has established Banyan as an industry leader and a national household name.