How Drinking Can Inhibit Your Sleep and Recovery
In a recent article in 220 Triathlon, they discuss the affect that alcohol can have on your sleep and your recovery if you are training or an athlete. According to the article, “Alcohol affects your sleep quality, quantity, and ability to recover in a number of ways.” For athletes, sleep is the most important part of recovery. Alcohol not only affects the “REM part of the sleep cycle” but also human growth hormone (HGH) secretion which occurs during “slow-wave sleep.” Alcohol inhibits the production of this necessary tool for muscle development. Furthermore, particularly for an athlete or someone training, alcohol can leave you dehydrated further impairing your performance.
Read more about the importance of sleep for your recovery on 220 Triathlon: “Why is Sleep Important for Athletes?”
Even if you are not an athlete or training for a race, alcohol can greatly affect your overall health. From your heart to your liver, nearly every organ takes a hit when you drink excessively. Alcohol can impair your judgement and greatly impact your relationships. It is essential to seek treatment for any alcohol dependence or alcohol use disorder. Millions of Americans suffer from an unhealthy reliance on alcohol without ever seeking treatment. It is never too early to get help. Whether during the past year you have drank more than you intended or experienced cravings to drink, had alcohol interfere with your work or ability to care for your children, treatment can help.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created a world of uncertainty, adding stress and insecurities to once stable careers. Researchers have seen a drastic increase in alcohol sales and many fear that more people are suffering from alcohol use disorder than ever before. Now is the time to get the professional help you need.