7. Rethink Your Relationship with Alcohol After 50
Have you noticed that glass of wine affects you differently now than it did in your thirties? There’s a scientific reason for that—and it’s worth understanding as we navigate the changes that come with reaching our fifth decade.
As women age, our bodies naturally contain less water and more fat tissue. Since alcohol is water-soluble but not fat-soluble, we have less fluid to dilute the alcohol we consume. The result? Higher blood alcohol concentrations from the same amount of alcohol we might have easily handled years ago.
Additionally, our liver’s efficiency in metabolizing alcohol gradually decreases with age. This combination means that after 50, alcohol remains in our system longer, potentially causing more pronounced effects and more severe hangovers.
Beyond the immediate impacts, research shows that alcohol consumption takes on new health implications after 50. Regular heavy drinking increases our risk of conditions that already become more common with age, including certain cancers, liver issues, and cognitive changes. For women experiencing perimenopausal or menopausal symptoms, alcohol can also worsen hot flashes and sleep disturbances.
However, the news isn’t all concerning. Some studies suggest that modest alcohol consumption—particularly of red wine—may offer certain cardiovascular benefits. The key word here is modest, with health guidelines recommending women over 50 limit intake to no more than 7 units per week (equivalent to about 3-4 standard glasses of wine).
Many women in our community have found creative approaches to mindful drinking:
- Savoring smaller pours of higher quality wines
- Alternating alcoholic beverages with sparkling water
- Exploring the growing world of sophisticated non-alcoholic options
- Reserving alcohol for special occasions rather than daily habits
By being intentional about when and how much we drink, we can still enjoy social occasions while supporting our changing bodies through this important life stage.