When it comes to alcohol, we often convince ourselves that our drinking habits are reasonable and that we are in control. However, sometimes this simply isn’t the case. Recent research claims that many middle-aged women feel like their drinking habits aren’t a problem because they feel in control of their drinking and are respectable in society. However, this outlook can have severe consequences on their health and well-being.
Women that are 50 to 70 years old often drink more than acceptable low-risk guidelines deem as normal consumption. This study researched the drinking habits of women aged between 50 and 69. Forty-nine women participated in the research, and they were all from Denmark and Australia.
Health authorities have cautioned that drinking over two standard drinks can significantly enhance the risk of premature death. However, the researchers found that many women feel like their ability to stay presentable, in control, and respectable is the main factor in deciding whether they have had too much to drink, not the amount of consumed alcohol. This is extremely important as alcohol can pose a significant risk to health.
Many women that took part in the research believed if they performed some actions that were positive for their overall health, like exercising, they would neutralize the adverse effects of alcohol on their health.
A vast majority of women from both Australia and Denmark felt like drinking at their age was nothing out of the ordinary. They believed it was normal and claimed that it had to do with what became normal with their friends and family members.
The study also highlighted that cultural differences play a massive part in determining how women view drinking. Women from Australia had an interesting outlook on the correlation between alcohol and stress. When they are feeling stressed, they feel it is acceptable to drink. Also, they don’t mind sharing they are drinking because they had a long or stressful day. On the other hand, women from Denmark had a different outlook on things. They believed that alcohol shouldn’t be used as a coping mechanism.
Monitoring our drinking habits is extremely important. Even though it might not seem like a problem, the overconsumption of alcohol can damage our health. This is why we should stay aware of our behavior and avoid using alcohol to cope with stress.
