A new study from Denmark has found that exercising throughout your life may reduce your risk of alcoholism.
In the study, a group of adults was sent four surveys over the course of a 20-year period. Those individuals who reported maintaining an active lifestyle were less likely to require treatment or hospitalization for alcoholism later. The research showed that men and women who reported at least low levels of physical engagement were 30 to 40 percent less likely than sedentary people to be diagnosed with alcoholism.
Researchers said they can't be certain that exercise and alcoholism share a direct link, but there is enough evidence to suggest one.
"Although we and for that matter others have not proven a causal relationship between physical activity and risk of developing alcohol use disorders, it is likely that there is a causal link," Dr. Ulrik Becker of the National Institute of Public Health at the University of Southern Denmark in Copenhagen, coauthor of the new report, told Reuters. "We know from other studies that physical activity reduces the risk of other psychiatric problems…as well as studies that seem to show that physical activity increases the benefit of treatment in alcohol use disorder patients."
An American researcher suggested to Reuters that the link may make just as much sense when reversed: Alcoholism leads to a sedentary lifestyle, not the other way around. So, although the meaning of the results are unclear, there has been a connection established between exercise and alcohol use.
If you believe you're suffering from alcohol addiction, contact Fairwinds Treatment Center today. Fairwinds is one of the premiere alcohol treatment centers in the nation, and the professionals here will make sure you're given the best chance at long-term recovery. At the end of your treatment, we want you to be able to rejoin your family and lead a happier and healthier life.
