How Alcohol Affects Brain Function of College Age Drinkers
College students may want to ask themselves' "Do I have a test tomorrow?" before taking that next shot. Alcohol affects every part of the body, including the brain, and its functions. MRIs have shown that there is a significant difference in memory retention between alcohol dependent youths and non-dependent youths(Alcohol and Health). Memory is a vital function college students need to be successful in achieving academic goals. The excessive use of alcohol by college students and binge drinking has a direct affect on memory retention and that affects critical thinking.
For those who are alcohol dependent and binge drink, brain activity is less active than those who drink socially or infrequently. The two images above are taken from college students and show areas of the brain that are directly related to memory retention; a huge part of critical thinking. Blue areas indicate brain activity during a memory task of a normal brain and one that is alcohol dependent. The top view/side view shows reduced brain function caused by alcohol use. Follow the link to learn more on how alcohol disrupts brain function. http://www.alcoholpolicymd.com/alcohol_and_health/brain_images.htm
For those who are alcohol dependent and binge drink, brain activity is less active than those who drink socially or infrequently. The two images above are taken from college students and show areas of the brain that are directly related to memory retention; a huge part of critical thinking. Blue areas indicate brain activity during a memory task of a normal brain and one that is alcohol dependent. The top view/side view shows reduced brain function caused by alcohol use. Follow the link to learn more on how alcohol disrupts brain function. http://www.alcoholpolicymd.com/alcohol_and_health/brain_images.htm
Alcohol and Your Brain
Have
you ever wondered what happens to your brain when drinking? Blurred vision,
slurred speech, and blood shot eyes are a common result of drinking. Sometimes binge drinking, or even
moderate drinking, can result in permanent damage to the brain (Tune In Not
Out). Alcohol does affect how your brain works. Critical thinking is a
necessary skill for college students so drinking in moderation can help in
mastering critical thinking skills. Follow this link to view a 3D video on how
alcohol works on your brain. http://www.tuneinnotout.com/topics/alcohol-other-drugs/alcohol/
References:
"Alcohol and Health: Brain Comparison Images." Alcohol and Health. AlcoholPolicyMD, n.d. Web. 10 Nov 2012.
"Alcohol-Factsheet and videos." Alcohol. Tune In Not Out, n.d. Web. 10 Nov 2012
References:
"Alcohol and Health: Brain Comparison Images." Alcohol and Health. AlcoholPolicyMD, n.d. Web. 10 Nov 2012.
"Alcohol-Factsheet and videos." Alcohol. Tune In Not Out, n.d. Web. 10 Nov 2012