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"Zhang Yijie, you have to drink less and less wine." On this sunny morning, Zhang Yijie came to the hospital with a feeling of discomfort.
Zhang Yixie, an ordinary retired worker, has had the habit of drinking since he was young. Every day after work, having a drink at dinner has become an indispensable part of his life.
"Doctor, I've never drunk less in my life, and now that I'm suddenly asked to quit, I feel even more uncomfortable." Zhang Yijie complained, his face full of helplessness.
"Zhang Yixie, do you know? Although you feel uncomfortable to quit drinking, in fact, it is very necessary for the elderly to adjust their drinking habits in moderation. ”
The doctor goes on to explain: "You may not know that the negative health effects of alcohol consumption in older people are much greater than when they were younger. In particular, the risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and liver disease is significantly increased. A moderate reduction in alcohol intake can effectively reduce the incidence of these diseases. ”
"Doctor, how much do you mean 'moderate'?" Zhang Yijie asked. The doctor explains, "In general, for seniors like you, alcohol intake should not exceed a certain amount per day. And it's better to choose a low-proof alcohol, such as beer or wine, rather than a spirit. ”
Zhang Yijie knew that it was not easy to change his drinking habits for many years, but for the sake of health, he could only try it.
"That's right, Zhang Yijie." The doctor added, "If you feel unwell during the process of quitting alcohol, such as poor sleep quality and mood swings, this is normal. At this time, you can do some light exercises, such as walking, jogging, etc., which can help improve your physical condition. ”
Zhang Yijie listened to these suggestions, although he was still a little resistant in his heart, but he also understood the doctor's painstaking efforts. As the days passed, Zhang Yijie really followed the doctor's advice and gradually reduced his alcohol intake.
Although he always felt uncomfortable for the first few days, and even broke out in a cold sweat at night, slowly, these symptoms began to lessen.
Later, Zhang Yijie came to the hospital again for follow-up. This time, he was clearly much more energetic than he looked last time. "Doctor, I feel that I have been much more comfortable in the past few weeks. Although drink less, it will not quit completely. He recalled, with a hint of relief in his tone.
"Very good, Zhang Yijie, this is exactly what I want to tell you." The doctor nodded with satisfaction, "Actually, for the elderly, a moderate alcohol intake, such as an occasional glass or two of wine, is okay. ”
The doctor added a new point: "And, what you may not know is that moderate alcohol consumption has a protective effect on cognitive function in older adults. Of course, this is not to encourage the elderly who have not drunk alcohol to start drinking, but for people like you who have a long-term drinking habit, it is beneficial to physical and mental health to maintain a small amount of alcohol on the basis of appropriate reduction. ”
After Zhang Yijie listened, he felt that he had more confidence in his heart. He knew that although he couldn't drink as freely as he did when he was younger, it was okay to enjoy it in moderation.
One afternoon a few months later, Zhang Yijie came to the hospital again and communicated with the doctor with a smile on his face. "Doctor, I feel much more relaxed now that I drink as you said. However, I have a question, I have heard that alcohol affects the liver, is my liver function not as good as it used to be at my age? Could there be any problems? Zhang Yixie asked with concern.
The doctor replied carefully: Zhang Yijie, your question is very good. It is true that alcohol is mainly metabolized in the liver, which puts a strain on liver function.
Therefore, even if you drink a small amount of alcohol, you need to pay attention to your body's response. Regular liver function tests are recommended to monitor liver health. At the same time, it is equally important to maintain a healthy lifestyle that includes moderate exercise and a balanced diet.
Zhang Yijie listened to this professional explanation and felt very relieved. He knows that his health is being reliably protected, and he is even more convinced that proper life adjustments are worth it.
What do you think about alcohol cessation among the elderly? Welcome to discuss in the comment area!