Alcohol and Nutrition: How Alcohol Affects Nutrition, Digestion and Overall Health of the Body
- The Basics of Alcohol
- Alcohol and Digestion
- Nutritional Impact of Alcohol
- Alcohol and Dehydration
- Alcohol and Weight Gain
- Alcohol and Mental Health
- Chronic Health Risks of Excessive Alcohol Consumption
- Responsible Drinking and Nutritional Balance
The intricate dance between alcohol and nutrition is a topic that has piqued the interest of many health enthusiasts, researchers, and the general public alike. With the global consumption of alcoholic beverages being a widespread practice, understanding its effects on our body’s nutrition and overall health becomes paramount. This section provides a brief overview of the relationship between alcohol and nutrition and underscores the importance of understanding the effects of alcohol on the body.
The Global Affair with Alcohol
Alcohol has been a part of human culture for millennia. From ancient civilizations using it in religious ceremonies to modern societies indulging in it during social gatherings, its presence is undeniable. According to the World Health Organization, nearly 58% of men and 28% of women globally consumed alcohol in 2016. Such widespread consumption prompts the question: How does alcohol impact our nutritional health?
The Dual Nature of Alcohol
At its core, alcohol is a paradox. On one hand, moderate consumption, especially of certain types like red wine, has been linked to potential health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health. On the other hand, excessive or prolonged intake can lead to a myriad of health issues, ranging from digestive problems to chronic diseases.
Alcohol and Nutrition: A Complex Relationship
When we consume alcohol, it becomes a priority for our body to metabolize. This is primarily because our body recognizes alcohol as a toxin. As the liver works overtime to process the alcohol, other essential metabolic processes, especially those related to the digestion and absorption of nutrients, might take a backseat.
Furthermore, alcohol itself contains calories – seven calories per gram, to be precise. However, these are often termed “empty calories” as they provide no nutritional value. This means that while you’re adding to your daily caloric intake, you’re not necessarily nourishing your body.
The Importance of Knowledge
Understanding the effects of alcohol on nutrition is not just for those who consume it regularly. Even occasional drinkers can benefit from this knowledge. Being aware of how alcohol affects nutrient absorption, digestion, and overall health can guide individuals in making informed decisions about their drinking habits. It can also help in striking a balance, ensuring that one’s nutritional needs are met even when they choose to indulge in an alcoholic beverage.
The Basics of Alcohol
The Science Behind Alcohol
At a molecular level, the primary component of alcoholic beverages is ethanol (C2H5OH). Ethanol is a psychoactive substance, which means it affects the central nervous system and can alter mood, behavior, and cognitive functions. When consumed, ethanol is absorbed into the bloodstream and affects various bodily systems, leading to the feeling of intoxication.
The Process of Fermentation
The production of alcohol is rooted in the process of fermentation. Fermentation is a natural metabolic process where yeast and certain bacteria convert sugars into ethanol and carbon dioxide. This process has been harnessed by humans for millennia to produce alcoholic beverages.
- Wine is produced by fermenting the sugars present in grapes.
- Beer is made by fermenting malted barley and other grains.
- Cider is derived from the fermentation of apple juice.
Distillation: Creating Stronger Spirits
While fermentation gives us beverages like beer, wine, and cider, the process of distillation is used to produce spirits with a higher alcohol content. Distillation involves heating a fermented liquid to separate the alcohol from the water and other components. The resulting vapor is then cooled and condensed to produce spirits.
Examples of distilled spirits include:
- Whiskey: Distilled from fermented grain mash, including barley, corn, rye, and wheat.
- Vodka: Typically distilled from fermented grains or potatoes.
- Rum: Made from fermented sugarcane juice or molasses.
- Tequila: Distilled from the fermented juice of the blue agave plant.
The Importance of Moderation
While enjoying an alcoholic beverage can be pleasurable, it’s crucial to understand its potency. The effects of a drink on the body and mind can vary significantly based on its alcohol content. Hence, being aware of the ABV of a beverage can guide individuals in consuming it responsibly.
Alcohol and Digestion
The digestive system, a complex network of organs and enzymes, plays a pivotal role in breaking down the food and drinks we consume into nutrients that the body can use. But when alcohol enters the equation, the dynamics of this system can change. This section explores how alcohol interacts with our digestive processes, from metabolism to nutrient absorption.
Metabolizing Alcohol: The Liver's Role
The liver is the primary organ responsible for metabolizing alcohol. Once alcohol is consumed, it quickly enters the bloodstream and makes its way to the liver. Here, enzymes, primarily alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), break down ethanol into acetaldehyde, a toxic compound. Further enzymatic reactions convert acetaldehyde into acetate, which the body eventually uses for energy or expels.
It’s worth noting that the liver can only metabolize a certain amount of alcohol per hour. Consuming alcohol faster than the liver can process can lead to intoxication and other adverse effects.
Alcohol's Impact on Digestive Enzymes
Digestive enzymes are crucial for breaking down food into absorbable nutrients. Alcohol can interfere with the production and function of these enzymes. For instance, excessive alcohol consumption can inhibit the pancreas from secreting digestive enzymes, leading to impaired digestion and nutrient absorption.
Nutrient Absorption and Alcohol
The intestines play a vital role in absorbing nutrients from digested food. However, alcohol can compromise this function in several ways:
- Vitamin Absorption: Alcohol can reduce the absorption of essential vitamins, including B vitamins and vitamin C, leading to deficiencies.
- Mineral Absorption: Excessive alcohol intake can hinder the absorption of vital minerals like calcium, magnesium, and zinc.
- Protein Digestion: Alcohol can affect the breakdown and absorption of proteins, essential for muscle growth and repair.
Alcohol and Gastric Acid Production
Alcohol stimulates the stomach to produce more gastric acid. While this acid is essential for digesting food, excessive amounts can lead to issues like gastritis, ulcers, and acid reflux.
The Gut Microbiome and Alcohol
Recent research has shed light on the importance of the gut microbiome – the community of beneficial bacteria residing in our intestines. Alcohol can disrupt this delicate balance, reducing the number of beneficial bacteria and allowing harmful bacteria to thrive. This imbalance can lead to digestive issues, weakened immune function, and increased inflammation.
The Long-Term Effects
Chronic excessive alcohol consumption can have severe repercussions on the digestive system:
- Liver Diseases: Conditions like fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, fibrosis, and cirrhosis can develop.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, leading to digestive complications.
- Gastrointestinal Cancers: Prolonged heavy drinking increases the risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, and colon.
While enjoying a drink occasionally may not have significant adverse effects on digestion, it’s essential to be aware of the potential implications of excessive and prolonged alcohol consumption. By understanding how alcohol interacts with our digestive system, we can make informed decisions about our drinking habits, ensuring that we prioritize our digestive health and overall well-being.
Nutritional Impact of Alcohol
Alcohol’s influence extends beyond the immediate sensations of relaxation or euphoria. Its consumption has profound implications for our body’s nutritional balance. This section delves into the nutritional ramifications of alcohol, from its caloric content to its impact on essential vitamins and minerals.
Empty Calories: The Nutritional Void
One of the most immediate nutritional impacts of alcohol is its caloric content. Alcohol provides 7 calories per gram, making it more calorie-dense than carbohydrates and proteins, which offer 4 calories per gram. However, these calories from alcohol are often termed “empty” because they lack essential nutrients.
For perspective:
- A standard glass of wine (5 oz) can contain about 120-130 calories.
- A 12 oz beer might have anywhere from 150 to 200 calories.
- A 1.5 oz shot of distilled spirits, like vodka or whiskey, provides roughly 90-100 calories.
These numbers can add up quickly, especially during social events or gatherings where multiple drinks are consumed.
Alcohol and Appetite
Alcohol can stimulate appetite, leading individuals to consume more food than usual. This effect, combined with alcohol’s caloric content, can contribute to weight gain. Moreover, alcohol can lower inhibitions, making it easier to indulge in unhealthy or calorie-rich foods.
Nutrient Depletion: The Hidden Cost
Beyond calories, alcohol affects the body’s ability to absorb and utilize essential nutrients:
- Vitamins: Alcohol can interfere with the absorption of B vitamins, especially B1 (thiamine), B9 (folate), and B12. These vitamins are crucial for energy production, DNA synthesis, and nerve function.
- Minerals: Alcohol can affect the absorption of calcium, zinc, and magnesium. These minerals are vital for bone health, immune function, and muscle function, respectively.
Alcohol and Blood Sugar
Alcohol can impact blood sugar levels. While it can cause an initial spike in blood sugar, it can also lead to a rapid drop, especially in individuals with diabetes or those who consume alcohol on an empty stomach. This fluctuation can lead to feelings of dizziness, confusion, and fatigue.
The Fat Storage Dilemma
When alcohol is consumed, the body prioritizes its metabolism over other nutrients, especially fats. This means that fats consumed alongside alcohol are more likely to be stored rather than burned for energy, contributing to weight gain.
Hydration and Electrolyte Balance
Alcohol acts as a diuretic, increasing urine production and leading to dehydration. This loss of fluids can also result in an imbalance of essential electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and chloride, which are crucial for muscle function, nerve function, and maintaining fluid balance.
The nutritional impact of alcohol is multifaceted and profound. While moderate consumption might not lead to significant nutritional imbalances, regular and excessive intake can have lasting effects on one’s nutritional health. Being aware of these implications allows individuals to make informed decisions about their alcohol consumption, ensuring they maintain a balanced and healthy diet.
Alcohol and Dehydration
Hydration is a cornerstone of health, affecting everything from cellular function to cognitive performance. Alcohol, with its diuretic properties, can significantly impact the body’s hydration status. This section delves into the relationship between alcohol and dehydration, exploring the mechanisms at play and the broader implications for health.
The Diuretic Effect of Alcohol
A diuretic is a substance that promotes the production of urine, leading to increased urine output. Alcohol is a potent diuretic, especially when consumed in large quantities. The primary reason for this is alcohol’s inhibition of the antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which regulates water reabsorption in the kidneys. With reduced ADH levels, the kidneys reabsorb less water, leading to increased urine production and potential dehydration.
Signs of Dehydration
Dehydration can manifest in various ways, and while mild dehydration might be hard to notice, more severe cases can present clear symptoms:
- Dry mouth and throat
- Dark yellow urine
- Fatigue or dizziness
- Reduced urine output
- Headaches
- Dry, cool skin
- Rapid heartbeat and breathing
Electrolyte Imbalance: Beyond Just Water
Dehydration isn’t just about water loss. Along with water, essential electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and chloride are also excreted in urine. These electrolytes play vital roles in nerve function, muscle contractions, and maintaining the body’s pH balance. Alcohol-induced dehydration can lead to an imbalance of these electrolytes, resulting in symptoms like muscle cramps, weakness, and irregular heart rhythms.
The Morning After: Hangovers and Hydration
One of the primary reasons for the dreaded hangover after a night of heavy drinking is dehydration. The combination of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances can lead to symptoms like headaches, fatigue, nausea, and dizziness. Rehydrating and replenishing lost electrolytes is crucial for alleviating hangover symptoms.
Long-Term Implications
While occasional alcohol consumption might lead to temporary dehydration, chronic excessive drinking can have more lasting effects on the kidneys and overall hydration status. Over time, this can strain the kidneys, increasing the risk of kidney stones and other renal complications.
Tips for Staying Hydrated
If you choose to consume alcohol, there are several strategies to minimize its dehydrating effects:
- Alternate Drinks: For every alcoholic beverage, drink a glass of water. This not only helps with hydration but can also reduce overall alcohol intake.
- Choose Hydrating Mixers: If you’re having a mixed drink, opt for hydrating mixers like coconut water or electrolyte-infused beverages.
- Rehydrate Post-Drinking: Before going to bed, drink a glass of water or an electrolyte solution to kickstart the rehydration process.
- Limit Alcohol Intake: Moderation is key. By limiting the amount of alcohol consumed, you can reduce its diuretic effect and the risk of dehydration.
While alcohol can be enjoyed responsibly, it’s essential to be aware of its impact on the body’s hydration status. By understanding the relationship between alcohol and dehydration, individuals can take proactive measures to maintain optimal hydration levels, ensuring they enjoy their drink without compromising their health.
Alcohol and Weight Gain
In today’s health-conscious world, many individuals are vigilant about their weight and overall body composition. Alcohol, with its caloric content and influence on metabolism, can play a significant role in weight management. This section delves into the relationship between alcohol and weight gain, exploring the underlying mechanisms and offering insights for those looking to balance enjoyment with health.
The Caloric Density of Alcohol
As previously mentioned, alcohol provides 7 calories per gram, making it second only to fats (which provide 9 calories per gram) in caloric density. These calories can quickly add up, especially when one considers the additional calories from mixers in cocktails or the tendency to consume multiple drinks in one sitting.
For perspective:
- A pint of beer can range from 150 to 250 calories.
- A glass of wine might offer 120 to 200 calories.
- Cocktails, depending on their ingredients, can range from 100 to 500 calories or more.
Alcohol and Appetite
Alcohol can stimulate the appetite, leading to increased food consumption. This phenomenon is due to alcohol’s effect on certain hormones that regulate hunger and satiety. Additionally, the lowered inhibitions from alcohol might make one more likely to indulge in calorie-rich or unhealthy foods.
When alcohol is consumed, the body prioritizes its metabolism to quickly process this toxin. As a result, the metabolism of other macronutrients, especially fats, is temporarily sidelined. This means that fats consumed alongside alcohol are less likely to be burned for energy and more likely to be stored in the body, contributing to weight gain.
Alcohol and Fat Metabolism
Chronic alcohol consumption can interfere with the body’s ability to metabolize and break down fats. This can lead to fat accumulation in the liver (fatty liver disease) and other parts of the body.
The Social Aspect: Hidden Calories
Social drinking often involves not just the calories from alcohol but also from accompanying snacks, meals, or late-night indulgences. These “hidden” calories can significantly contribute to weight gain over time.
Long-Term Implications
Consistent excessive alcohol intake, combined with its associated caloric intake and metabolic effects, can lead to gradual weight gain. Over time, this can increase the risk of obesity-related health issues, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers.
Tips for Mindful Drinking
For those looking to enjoy alcohol without compromising their weight goals, here are some strategies:
- Choose Low-Calorie Drinks: Opt for light beers, dry wines, or spirits with low-calorie mixers.
- Limit Consumption: Moderation is key. Limit the number of drinks and be mindful of portion sizes.
- Eat Before Drinking: Consuming a balanced meal before drinking can reduce alcohol’s appetite-stimulating effects.
- Stay Active: If you know you’ll be consuming more calories due to alcohol, try to balance it out with physical activity.
Alcohol’s relationship with weight is multifaceted, influenced by its caloric content, metabolic effects, and behavioral impacts. By understanding these dynamics, individuals can make informed decisions about their alcohol consumption, ensuring they strike a balance between enjoyment and health.
Alcohol and Mental Health
The mind-body connection is profound, and what we consume can significantly influence our mental well-being. Alcohol, a psychoactive substance, has direct and indirect effects on mental health. This section explores the intricate relationship between alcohol and mental health, from immediate mood alterations to long-term psychological implications.
The Immediate Effects: Euphoria to Depression
Upon consumption, alcohol can induce feelings of relaxation, euphoria, and lowered inhibitions. This is due to its effect on neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and dopamine. However, as the effects wear off, alcohol can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, and irritability.
Alcohol and Sleep
While many believe that alcohol aids sleep, it can actually disrupt the sleep cycle. While it might help individuals fall asleep faster, it often results in fragmented sleep and reduces the amount of restorative REM sleep. Over time, this can lead to fatigue, mood swings, and impaired cognitive function.
Cognitive Impairment and Memory Lapses
Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to blackouts or memory lapses. Chronic drinking can also result in long-term cognitive impairments, affecting memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.
Alcohol and Anxiety
While some turn to alcohol to cope with anxiety, it can exacerbate anxiety symptoms in the long run. This can create a vicious cycle where individuals consume alcohol to alleviate anxiety, only to experience increased anxiety as the effects wear off.
The Risk of Addiction
One of the most significant mental health concerns associated with alcohol is the risk of developing an addiction or alcohol use disorder (AUD). This condition, characterized by an inability to control alcohol consumption despite negative consequences, can have severe psychological and physical repercussions.
Alcohol and Co-existing Mental Health Disorders
Many individuals with mental health disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia, might use alcohol as a coping mechanism. However, alcohol can exacerbate the symptoms of these disorders and interfere with the effectiveness of medications.
The Social Implications
While alcohol is often consumed in social settings, excessive drinking can strain relationships, leading to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and increased stress.
Seeking Balance and Support
For those struggling with the mental health implications of alcohol:
- Awareness: Recognizing the impact of alcohol on mental well-being is the first step.
- Seek Support: Therapy, counseling, and support groups can offer guidance and coping strategies.
- Limit Consumption: Reducing or eliminating alcohol can help in assessing its impact on mental health.
- Stay Connected: Maintaining close personal connections can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation.
The relationship between alcohol and mental health is complex and deeply personal. While moderate consumption might offer moments of relaxation and social connection, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks and implications for mental well-being. By understanding this relationship, individuals can make informed decisions about their alcohol consumption, prioritizing both their physical and mental health.
Alcohol and the Immune System
The immune system is our body’s defense mechanism against pathogens, ensuring we remain healthy and resilient against infections. Alcohol, with its multifaceted effects on the body, can influence the immune system’s efficacy. This section delves into the relationship between alcohol and the immune system, exploring how consumption can impact our body’s ability to fend off diseases.
Immediate Immune Response
Upon alcohol consumption, especially in large quantities, the body experiences an immediate and temporary suppression of the immune response. This makes the body more susceptible to infections as the ability of white blood cells to combat pathogens is reduced.
Chronic Consumption and Immune Health
Regular and excessive alcohol consumption can lead to long-term impairments in the immune system. Chronic drinkers are more susceptible to diseases like pneumonia, tuberculosis, and even sepsis. The risk of post-surgery complications also increases due to a weakened immune response.
Alcohol and Inflammation
Alcohol can induce inflammation in the body. While inflammation is a natural response to injury or pathogens, chronic inflammation, often seen in heavy drinkers, can lead to various health issues, including liver disease, cardiovascular diseases, and even certain cancers.
Gut Health and Immunity
The gut plays a pivotal role in immune health, with a significant portion of the immune system located in the gastrointestinal tract. Alcohol can disrupt the gut microbiome, reducing the number of beneficial bacteria and allowing harmful bacteria to thrive. This imbalance can compromise the gut barrier, allowing toxins and bacteria to enter the bloodstream, leading to inflammation and a weakened immune response.
Nutritional Deficiencies
As discussed in previous sections, alcohol can lead to nutritional deficiencies, particularly of vitamins and minerals essential for immune function. Deficiencies in vitamins like vitamin C, vitamin D, and B vitamins can compromise the immune system’s ability to function optimally.
Alcohol and Vaccination
There’s emerging evidence to suggest that excessive alcohol consumption can reduce the efficacy of vaccines. The immune system’s weakened response means that the body might not produce adequate antibodies after vaccination, reducing the vaccine’s protective effects.
Balancing Enjoyment and Health
For those who enjoy alcohol, moderation is key. Occasional drinking, especially when paired with a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle, might not have significant implications for immune health. However, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with excessive consumption.
Tips for Supporting Immune Health
- Limit Consumption: Stick to recommended guidelines for alcohol consumption.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water alongside alcohol to support overall health and reduce the risk of dehydration.
- Nutrient-Rich Diet: Ensure a diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support immune function.
- Probiotics: Consider incorporating probiotics into your diet to support gut health.
- Regular Check-ups: Regular medical check-ups can help monitor and address any potential health concerns.
The immune system, a complex network of cells and proteins, is crucial for our well-being. While alcohol can be enjoyed responsibly, understanding its impact on immune health is essential. By making informed decisions about alcohol consumption, individuals can ensure they prioritize their overall health and well-being.
Chronic Health Risks of Excessive Alcohol Consumption
While moderate alcohol consumption might have certain social and even health benefits for some individuals, chronic and excessive drinking poses significant health risks. Over time, the cumulative effects of heavy alcohol consumption can lead to a range of chronic conditions that affect nearly every system in the body. This section delves into the long-term health implications of excessive alcohol intake.
Liver Diseases
The liver is the primary organ responsible for metabolizing alcohol. Chronic heavy drinking can lead to:
- Fatty Liver Disease: Accumulation of fat in liver cells, which can progress to more severe liver conditions.
- Alcoholic Hepatitis: Inflammation and damage to the liver.
- Cirrhosis: Scarring of the liver tissue, leading to liver failure.
Cardiovascular Diseases
While moderate drinking might have protective effects on the heart for some, excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of:
- High Blood Pressure: Chronic drinking can lead to elevated blood pressure levels.
- Cardiomyopathy: A condition where the heart muscle weakens and cannot pump blood efficiently.
- Stroke: Increased risk due to high blood pressure and other factors.
- Arrhythmias: Irregular heart rhythms.
Cancers
Long-term excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk of several cancers, including:
- Mouth and Throat Cancer
- Esophageal Cancer
- Liver Cancer
- Breast Cancer
- Colorectal Cancer
The risk is further heightened when combined with tobacco use.
Chronic alcohol use can lead to a range of digestive issues, including:
- Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, which can be acute or chronic.
- Malabsorption: Impaired absorption of essential nutrients from the digestive tract.
Respiratory Diseases
Excessive alcohol intake can compromise the immune system, increasing susceptibility to respiratory diseases like pneumonia and tuberculosis.
Mental Health Disorders
As discussed in previous sections, alcohol has profound effects on mental health. Chronic excessive drinking can exacerbate or lead to:
- Depression
- Anxiety Disorders
- Alcohol-Induced Psychosis
Reproductive Health
Chronic heavy drinking can affect reproductive health in both men and women:
- Men: Reduced testosterone levels, impotence, and infertility.
- Women: Irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, and complications during pregnancy.
Skeletal and Muscle Systems
Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to:
- Osteoporosis: Weakened bones with increased fracture risk.
- Muscle Atrophy: Muscle wasting and weakness.
Immune Dysfunction
As highlighted earlier, chronic alcohol use can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections.
The chronic health risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption are vast and varied. While alcohol might be enjoyed in moderation by many, it’s crucial to recognize the potential long-term implications of overconsumption. By understanding these risks, individuals can make informed decisions about their drinking habits, prioritizing their long-term health and well-being.
Responsible Drinking and Nutritional Balance
Tips for Drinking Responsively and Maintaining a Balanced Diet
- Set Limits: Decide in advance how many drinks you will have and stick to this limit.
- Choose Quality Over Quantity: Opt for a smaller amount of high-quality alcoholic beverages rather than consuming large quantities of lower-quality drinks.
- Pair with Nutritious Foods: When drinking, pair your alcohol with nutritious foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients.
- Stay Hydrated: Ensure you drink enough water alongside alcoholic beverages to stay hydrated and help your body process the alcohol.
- Mind the Serving Size: Be aware of the serving sizes of alcoholic beverages and avoid oversized or heavy-pour drinks.
The Importance of Alcohol-Free Days
Alcohol-free days are not just a break for your liver but also an opportunity for your body to recover, hydrate, and absorb essential nutrients effectively. Regular alcohol-free days can:
- Enhance Liver Function: Give your liver a chance to recover and function optimally.
- Improve Sleep Quality: Allow for uninterrupted, quality sleep, essential for overall health.
- Boost Nutrient Absorption: Enhance the body’s ability to absorb and utilize vital nutrients.
- Promote Mental Well-being: Reduce the risk of mental health issues associated with alcohol consumption.
- Support Weight Management: Help in managing calorie intake and supporting weight management goals.
Regular Health Check-Ups
Regular health check-ups are crucial for monitoring the impact of alcohol on your nutritional status and overall health. Regular screenings can help detect any potential issues early, allowing for timely intervention and prevention of more serious health complications.
