Although excessive alcohol consumption is a health hazard clearly established, studies have already shown a link between low alcohol consumption and a reduction in risk of stroke Where heart failure.
This time, the study conducted by Dr. Maiken Nedergaard of the University of Rochester (USA) suggests that consuming alcohol in very moderate quantities would help the brain to get rid of its toxins.
More efficient cleaning at night
Dr. Nedergaard’s research has focused on the glymphatic system, the process that cleans up accumulated toxins in the brain (including amyloid and tau beta proteins that are associated with Alzheimer’s disease). This system is more active at night, when we sleep.
By studying the glymphatic system of mice, the researchers discovered, as they expected, that excessive alcohol consumption generated significant inflammation of the brain. On the other hand, rodents exposed to a moderate amount of alcohol showed much less inflammation in the brain and above all had a more efficient toxin cleansing system than those who had not received alcohol.
“Previous studies have shown that low-to-moderate alcohol consumption is associated with a lower risk of dementia, while heavy drinking over many years is associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline. Our study may help explain why it happens. Specifically, low doses of alcohol appear to improve overall brain health” emphasizes Dr. Nedergaard.
This study was published in Scientific reports.
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