QuestionPamela
My husband, 55, is a weekend binge drinker. He recently started eating healthier-ne red meat or simple carbs, and less calories, and he exercise three times a week. Because of his arthritis in his knees, 20 minutes on our elliptical is all he can take.
My concern is he has gone from a 'functionaing alcoholic' to semi regular bing drinker. He like to have these 'blow outs' about every second weekend, usually on hard liquor, as a 'reward'.
He is in fact looking and feeling better, at least in my eyes, but the scale does not show any reward for all the hard work, and his waistline has not shrunk. If anything it is firmer. In fact it is not like the flabby guts I see other men I see on the beach, he has only a bit of fat and even has a faint six pack. Almost looks like a pregnabt lady.
It is starting to bother him to the point where he may go back to his old ways.
Is this a sign of damage to his internal organs from the alcohol?
Although I think it is mostly genetic, he has males in his family no family to compare himself to.
If he could be assured it is only a matter of time for it to get flatter, he would have more resolve to continue.
Thanks for the advvice
AnswerDear Sue,
Research has shown that binge drinking, as well as weekend warriors, due as much damage to their liver as daily alcoholics. Ascites may be playing a role in his abdominal girth. I would advise a good physical to include blood work and liver ultrasound. His body is trying to communicate, but his brain is not paying attention.
