Alcohol has been a part of human society for centuries and continues to be a popular beverage. While moderate alcohol consumption may have some health benefits, drinking too much booze can have negative consequences on men's health. 

Below we explore the various effects of alcohol on men's health, including fertility, skin, and long-term medical conditions. We get into why men have a higher alcohol tolerance than women, what a healthy alcohol intake is, and solutions for how to take care of the side effects on the skin.

Why Do Men Drink Alcohol?

There are many reasons why men drink alcohol! Alcohol is a natural social lubricant that helps us feel more relaxed and confident in social situations. Men drinking alcohol is common at football games, BBQs, and other social gatherings. Alcohol can also be used to cope with stress and anxiety, unwind after a long work day, or celebrate a special occasion. Unfortunately, alcohol can also be a coping mechanism for deeper emotional turmoil, like depression and trauma, so it’s good to keep an eye on how much you are drinking.

Effects of Alcohol in Men’s Fertility

Alcohol can adversely affect men's fertility, impacting their ability to have children. Men who consume alcohol in excess may experience reduced sperm count, motility, and erectile dysfunction. Studies have shown that men who consume more than five alcoholic drinks per week have lower sperm quality than men who drink less or abstain from alcohol. Let’s get into some of the other negative side effects alcohol has on testosterone, estrogen, and libido.

Alcohols Effect on Testosterone

Alcohol and testosterone do not get along. Excessive alcohol consumption can decrease testosterone production. This is because alcohol can damage the Leydig cells in the testes that produce testosterone.

Alcohol and Estrogen

In addition, alcohol can also disrupt the body's balance of hormones, leading to an increase in estrogen levels (which can further suppress testosterone production). Excessive alcohol intake can interfere with the body's ability to metabolize and eliminate estrogen, leading to increased estrogen levels.

Alcohol and Libido

Alcohol can harm men's libido and sexual performance. Low to moderate drinking may positively affect sexual desire, but excessive drinking can lead to decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. This happens because alcohol can interfere with hormone levels, blood flow, and the nervous system, affecting sexual function and performance.

Effects of Alcohol in Men’s Appearance

Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to premature aging, wrinkles, and fine lines. Alcohol dehydrates the body, including the skin, leading to a loss of elasticity and firmness over time. Additionally, alcohol can cause inflammation and damage skin cells, leading to the breakdown of collagen and elastin, which are essential for healthy, youthful-looking skin. This can result in wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. Long-term alcohol abuse can also lead to several other physical changes, including yellowing of the skin and eyes, swollen or bloated appearance, and a general decline in overall health.

Alcohol and Bodybuilding

Alcohol abuse among male bodybuilders is a common problem that can interrupt health and fitness goals. While some alcoholic bodybuilders believe that alcohol can help them relax and recover after intense training, the reality is that alcohol can impair muscle recovery and overall performance.

Additionally, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration, which can cause muscle cramping and fatigue. Long-term alcohol abuse can also lead to liver damage, hormonal imbalances, and other health problems that can impact a bodybuilder's ability to achieve their goals.

Long Term Medical Conditions Caused by Alcoholism

Alcoholism in men can lead to long-term health consequences. Below we list a few long-term medical conditions that may develop from excessive drinking.

• Excessive alcohol consumption can cause liver damage, including liver cirrhosis, alcoholic hepatitis, and liver cancer.

• Chronic alcohol consumption can damage the pancreas, leading to pancreatitis, a painful and potentially life-threatening condition.

• Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and stroke.

• Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to neurological damage, including cognitive impairment, memory loss, and peripheral neuropathy.

It’s clear that there are severe negative health affects of alcohol.

Why Do Men Have Higher Alcohol Tolerance Than Women?

Men generally have a higher alcohol tolerance than women due to differences in body composition and alcohol metabolism. Men have a higher percentage of body water compared to women, which can help dilute the alcohol and reduce its concentration in the bloodstream.

Additionally, men have higher levels of the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) in their stomachs and livers, which is responsible for breaking down alcohol in the body. As a result, men can metabolize alcohol faster than women, leading to a higher tolerance. Women also have higher levels of estrogen, which can cause them to absorb alcohol more quickly and feel the effects of alcohol more strongly than men.

What Is a Healthy Alcohol Intake for a Man?

The recommended safe limit for men is no more than two standard drinks per day, with at least two alcohol-free days per week. It's important to note that the size of a standard drink varies depending on the type of alcohol, but as a general rule of thumb, a “standard drink” contains 10 grams of alcohol. Exceeding the recommended safe limit can lead to a range of health problems, including the ones we covered above.

Healthy Drinks for Men's Health

Of course, the best drink for your health excludes alcohol, but below, we list a few “healthier” options for the next time you want an alcoholic beverage.

Red wine

Red wine contains antioxidants called polyphenols, which can help protect against skin damage and premature aging.

Light Beer

Light beer contains fewer calories and less alcohol than regular beer, making it a healthier choice for those concerned about skin health.

Vodka

Mixing vodka with soda water or seltzer is a low-calorie and low-sugar option that can help you avoid the negative effects of sugary mixers.

Tequila

Tequila is made from the blue agave plant and contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and protect against skin damage. Mixing it with fresh lime juice can add an extra dose of vitamin C, which is essential for healthy skin.

It's important to remember that moderation is key, and excessive alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration, which can mess with skin health. So, always drink responsibly and keep your overall health and well-being in mind.

Why Is Dermaclara the Perfect Solution for Men’s Skin Health?

While alcohol consumption can negatively affect the skin, there are steps men can take to take care of themselves. And the first step is Dermaclara. With a non-invasive, dermatologist-approved approach, Dermaclara provides an effective solution for fine lines, wrinkles, stretch marks, and loose skin.

Dermaclara employs innovative silicone technology to target imperfections without harsh chemicals. By creating a microclimate between the seal and the skin, Dermaclara enhances moisture levels and stimulates collagen and elastin production, effectively reversing signs of aging. The patches are reusable, making them a more sustainable option compared to traditional creams and serums. Follow the steps below for perfect skin.

Step 1: Prep

Clean your face with Claraprep, our soft and gentle cleanser. Claraprep will help clear away dirt, sweat, and makeup.

Step 2: Apply Patches

Dermaclara patches are dynamic and can be applied wherever you want to see change. Apply the forehead, eye, mouth, neck, or chest silicone patches. Set the timer for 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 3: Peel-Off Patches

After the time is up, gently remove the patches and clean them with Patch Prep. Let them dry before reapplying them to the backing card.

Step 4: Moisturize

Finish off your skincare routine with Clarasome. This moisturizer is specially formulated to support collagen production with lightweight ingredients.

So, there you have it; the secret to being the strongest and hottest man alive is switching to light beer, caring about your overall health and well-being, and using Dermaclara!