Why does alcohol change my mood

A. Booze depresses the nervous system, which is why people lose their inhibitions, making them act out of character. However, alcohol can also depress people and too much shuts off part of the brain�that controls judgement. In the long-term alcohol abuse can lead to depression, anxiety and lethargy.

�

Q.� What are safe drinking levels

A.� A�glass of wine a day is said to protect against heart disease, strokes and perhaps some form of gallstones. The official government guidelines for safe drinking are 14 units a week for women and 21 for men. A unit is equivalent to one glass of wine or half pint of beer or single pub measure of spirits.

�

Q.� Why can't women drink the same as men

A.� Although women generally drink less than men, the consequences of them drinking too much are more serious. This is because women's bodies have less fat and water than men and the concentration of alcohol is, therefore, much higher.

�

Q.� Why is drinking too much so dangerous

A.� There are various illnesses caused by excess booze. Although red wine can protect the heart, too much is thought to actually cause heart disease and high blood pressure, which can lead to strokes.

�

Alcohol is very fattening. A single glass of white wine contains 85 calories and sweet wine 120. If you stick to recommended drinking levels, you can consume an extra 6,500 calories per month.

�

Alcohol also affects the liver. Prolonged heavy drinking upsets the delicate balance of enzymes in the liver, causing fatty globules to develop�that can swell the liver.

�

For more food and drink related questions and answers, click here

�

By Katharine MacColl