A common drink that accelerates ageing and premature death

Oxford University scientists have discovered that alcohol intake accelerates body aging.

• According to the journal Molecular Psychiatry

• it emerged to researchers that eating more than five glasses of wine a week shortens telomeres

• biological coverings at the ends of chromosomes

• that protect the DNA contained therein from damage. This directly affects the ageing of the body.

From their study of data on 245,000 people, researchers found that people who consume 290 grams of pure alcohol per week appear to be two years older than their real age in terms of telomeres, compared to those who consume less than 60 grams of pure alcohol per week.

According to the researchers, the relationship between the short length of telomeres and alcohol intake was apparent in people who consumed more than 170 grams of alcohol per week. Telomeres also fall short with age, resulting in DNA damage and an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease, diabetes and heart disease.

"The results of our study give additional information to doctors and patients seeking to minimize the harmful effect of consuming an excess amount of alcohol. In addition, the dose of alcohol is also important - as reducing it can actually be useful. "

The researchers did not specify how alcohol shortens telomeres. But they assume it may be due to increased oxidative stress and inflammation caused by the body's alcohol treatment.