Drinking even moderate amounts of alcohol is linked to changes in brain structure and an increased risk of worsening brain function, scientists say. "And we found no support for a protective effect of light consumption on brain structure," they added. U.S. guidelines suggest that up to 24.5 units of alcohol a week is safe for men, but the study found increased risk of brain structure changes at just 14 to 21 units a week. With [these results] justification of 'moderate' drinking on the grounds of brain health becomes a little harder," he said. Drinking more was also linked to poorer "white matter integrity" — a factor they described as critical when it comes to cognitive functioning.

Source: CBC News June 07, 2017 15:11 UTC