

To Drink or Not to Drink
29 snips Nov 29, 2021
David Nutt, a renowned professor of neuropsychopharmacology, discusses the nuanced world of alcohol and its effects on health. He explores the reasons people develop a taste for what is essentially a poison and how it impacts both body and mind. Nutt highlights alcohol's surprising health consequences, including its links to cancer and stroke. He advises on safe drinking practices and shares insights into the growing trend of reducing alcohol consumption. Plus, he reveals his work on synthetic alcohol that mimics its relaxing effects without the downsides.
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Rising Alcohol Consumption
- Alcohol consumption in the West is generally high, with 10-15% of adults experiencing alcohol-related problems.
- The rise is attributed to lower prices relative to inflation and increased availability, especially in supermarkets.
Alcohol's Hidden Dangers
- Alcohol, a drug often overlooked due to its social acceptance, has significant health risks.
- The alcohol industry promotes "responsible drinking," shifting the onus of responsibility to consumers while downplaying risks.
Alcohol's Acquired Taste
- Alcohol's burning sensation is due to its toxicity, irritating nerves in the mouth like it does on skin.
- The acquired taste for alcohol develops as people associate the initial unpleasantness with the subsequent pleasurable effects.