Heavy drinking has been found to increase the risk of brain injury, with studies showing that consuming eight or more alcoholic drinks per week can lead to damage in the small blood vessels that supply the brain. This can cause memory and thinking problems, as well as an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Researchers discovered that 40% of non-drinkers had brain injuries, while moderate drinkers and heavy drinkers showed similar rates of injury. Former heavy drinkers were found to be at a higher risk of developing tau tangles, abnormal protein clumps that can lead to cognitive decline.
The study also found that former heavy drinkers experienced lower brain mass ratios and poorer cognitive abilities compared to those who never drank or moderate drinkers. Additionally, heavy drinkers tend to die 13 years earlier than non-drinkers.
Source: https://www.kptv.com/2025/04/17/consuming-8-or-more-alcoholic-drinks-week-directly-linked-signs-brain-injury-study-finds