New research from Stanford University suggests that people undergo significant biological changes at the ages of 44 and 60, resulting in declines in immune system regulation, kidney function, and the ability to metabolize substances like alcohol and caffeine. This news may not come as a surprise to those approaching middle age who have experienced worsening hangovers after just one glass of wine. While anecdotal evidence points to the fact that hangovers can get worse with age, scientists have not extensively studied the mechanisms behind hangovers and how age plays a role in their severity.
Dr. Daniel Puleston, an assistant professor of immunology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, noted that there is not a lot of research linking hangover severity with age. Hangovers can be challenging to study because they rely on self-reported information, making it difficult to measure objectively. Factors like blood alcohol content, the duration of alcohol in the bloodstream, and inflammatory markers have been associated with hangover severity. As we age, our liver function decreases, our bodies contain less water, and we may have more alcohol circulating in our bloodstream due to these biological changes.
While aging may lead to changes in the body’s ability to metabolize alcohol and cope with oxidative stress, there is evidence that subjective intoxication – how drunk someone feels – is a better predictor of hangover severity than factors like blood alcohol concentration. A study found that hangover severity actually decreases with age, possibly because older individuals become more tolerant of alcohol or less sensitive to pain. However, some people may experience worse hangovers as they get older due to drinking less frequently, having health conditions, or taking medications that impact their sensitivity to alcohol.
The Stanford University research is part of a growing body of evidence challenging the idea that moderate alcohol consumption may be beneficial for health. Some experts now believe that any amount of alcohol poses health risks. Dr. Maria Torroella Carney, a professor of medicine at Northwell Health, noted that there is more evidence suggesting that alcohol can be harmful to the brain and cells, emphasizing the importance of limiting alcohol consumption. While alcohol can have social benefits and be enjoyed in moderation, it is crucial to be mindful of its potential negative effects on health.
While the science behind hangovers and age-related changes in the body’s ability to metabolize alcohol is still evolving, it is clear that understanding these processes can have implications for public health recommendations and individual choices regarding alcohol consumption. By recognizing the potential impacts of alcohol on the body as we age and being mindful of how it affects our health, individuals can make informed decisions about their drinking habits. Ultimately, being aware of the changes that occur in the body as we get older can help us make better choices for our overall health and well-being.
