This topic might have occurred in your mind. Will alcohol give any impact on my bodybuilding program? Some people can hardly say no to alcohol. For some of you, cutting down alcohol may be more difficult than reducing your food intake.
What is the connection between taking alcohol and building muscle? How can alcohol affect the process of building muscle? Here is some information you need to understand about the connection between taking alcohol and building muscle.
- Growth hormone
Alcohol intake affects the release of human growth hormone. Growth hormone is an important substance produced in human body to build muscle and promote cell growth as well as optimum bone growth. Human growth hormone is most produced when you are at sleep. Taking alcohol before sleep will affect your natural sleep cycle and can potentially reduce the growth hormone release down to 70 percent of its normal release amount.
- Testosterone levels
Testosterone is one of the most important hormones for muscle growth. Some substances of alcohol are synthesized in the liver. These often become toxins against the substances that trigger the release of testosterone. The decrease of testosterone levels will hinder the process of building muscle.
- Recovery time
Alcohol is often a toxin to human body. To reduce the effects caused by alcohol, our bodies need to spend more energy to get rid of alcohol from our metabolism. The more energy the body spends to get rid of it, the less remaining energy you have for muscle recovery.
- Hydration levels
Alcohol is a diuretic substance that can disturb your natural hydration levels. Dehydration can cause fatigue and decreased productivity. When you are dehydrated, you will not have enough energy to train your muscles.
- Glycogen synthesis
When you are taking alcohol drinks, alcohol synthesis takes place. Glycogen synthesis doesn't happen when alcohol synthesis takes place. Avoid taking alcohol before and after workout so that you don't get tired easily.
- Aerobic activities
Alcohol intake triggers the rise of blood pressure and increases heart beat rate. During workout, your heart is working at its maximum capacity, the rise of blood pressure caused by alcohol will make your workout much more challenging.
- Body fat levels
Alcohol contains calories which can cause you gain weight easily. One gram of alcohol equals 7 calories of energy. A few shots of alcohol drinks is just the same as having a full course dinner. It's just a matter of time that you will gain more fat.
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