The
theory has been that alcohol may affect brain chemicals that signal the adrenal
glands to produce more cortisol. To study this, researchers at the Veterans
Affairs North Texas Health Care System in Dallas recorded the breath alcohol
concentrations and cortisol levels in a three groups of patients: a group of
alcohol-dependent patients who were abstinent and participating in a residential
treatment program, a group who were intoxicated and in the treatment program,
and a group who were going through withdrawal. The study found:
· Both
the intoxicated group and the withdrawal group had increased cortisol levels
compared to the abstinent group
· Cortisol
concentrations actually increased during the progression from intoxication to
withdrawal
· Alcohol
consumption increases the body's production of cortisol, not only while the
person is intoxicated, but also when the drinker is withdrawing from the
effects of intoxication; cortisol does remains
elevated throughout the drinking cycle
· A
high level of intoxication can cause a state of general stress, which can
stimulate cortisol release.
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