Let’s take those who don’t remember anything after drinking alcohol here: we’ll explain the reason!
June 24, 2024
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If we only strain our memory, nothing comes up, but sometimes when someone tells us what happened, Moments that come in fragments Just as it has a name,
If we only strain our memory, nothing comes up, but sometimes when someone tells us what happened, Moments that come in fragments Just as it has a name, there are also reasons to shut down entire circuits.
Not only do we know how our brains and bodies do this to us, but alcohol is also more powerful than you think. major effects Do you notice that that is the case?
Alcohol and the brain: where are memories stored?
Our brains use a complex system to store and retrieve memories. sea Horse The so-called brain area plays a crucial role, especially in the transformation of short-term memory into long-term memory. Alcohol disrupts the normal functioning of cells in this area and therefore prevents the formation of new memories.
Alcohol, GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) It slows down brain activities by increasing the action of the so-called neurotransmitter. This reduces the brain’s ability to communicate and function information processing processes It disrupts. At high alcohol levels, these effects become more pronounced and the registration of memories is disrupted.
Loss of memories: alcohol blockade
The scientific name for our inability to remember what we have experienced under the influence of alcohol “alcohol-induced memory loss” or as it is popularly called “Black out”. This situation comes in two types: Partial and complete loss.
Patchy, ie fragmented memory loss, Although it causes us to remember some events in fragments and completely lost, it is as if the events were completely erased, that is, as if they never happened. Sounds familiar?
What happens in the brain?
Alcohol, NMDA receptors (N-methyl-D-aspartate). By blocking synaptic plasticity, it prevents the strengthening and weakening of the connections between nerve cells. This is a crucial process in storing memories. In addition, alcohol reduces the action of the stimulant neurotransmitter glutamate and reduces memory-forming ability.
Amount and effect of alcohol
The effect of alcohol on memory obviously varies depending on the amount consumed and the biochemical characteristics of the person. Especially when alcohol is consumed quickly and in large quantities, the brain becomes more to be pressured and the risk of memory loss increases.
of a person BAC (blood alcohol concentration) When the value approaches 16 percent, the power outages begin.
In addition, the general state of health, sleep patterns and… stress levels can also enhance these effects.
Long-term effects of alcohol
Frequent alcohol use is harmful in the long term permanent memory problems and can cause brain damage. Continued exposure of cells in the brain to the effects of alcohol can cause permanent damage to synaptic connections. Therefore, be moderate in your alcohol consumption.
Sources: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Library of Medicine, Good Rx, Alcohol, Very Well Mind
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Ashley Johnson is a science writer for “Div Bracket”. With a background in the natural sciences and a passion for exploring the mysteries of the universe, she provides in-depth coverage of the latest scientific developments.