Alcoholic Beverages

[retiredguy123]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

[alwann]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

No. If that's an honest statistic, in my opinion. Any DUIs on your driving record? Any stop-or-I'll-leave-you demands from spouse(s)? No, then why do you ask?

Winston Churchill started each day with booze and ended each day with booze, and he lived until age 90. If your body isn't telling you something's wrong, then enjoy your remaining years with a pop or two a day. Like when my doctor told me to eat less, I told him, at my age it's the only thing I still do well.

[Boomer]

Somebody once told me that there are drinkers and there are alcoholics and there is a big difference.

But I don’t know the answer to the question. Maybe it is a matter of Can the person quit? v. Should the person quit? v. Why should the person quit?

Boomer

[Chi-Town]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

Tell me, what do you think?

[retiredguy123]

Tell me, what do you think?
Personally, I think it makes no sense, and could possibly be harmful. But, I don't know.

[photo1902]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

Here you go, RG123. You've opened up the flood gates for comments :)

[oldtimes]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

Juice has too much sugar, coffee and tea have caffeine that is bad, decaf is done with chemicals which are bad, even bottled water is now bad so really what can you safely drink?

[LuvNH]

With respect, why would you ask a chat line group this question? If you are the drinker and your doctor told you to quit then there may be a reason to stop. Nobody here can possibly answer your question without a lot more information which you probably do not want to put out there.

[retiredguy123]

With respect, why would you ask a chat line group this question? If you are the drinker and your doctor told you to quit then there may be a reason to stop. Nobody here can possibly answer your question without a lot more information which you probably do not want to put out there.
I think I provided sufficient information for posters to express an opinion. To me, it is an interesting question.

[Two Bills]

I know I joke about being a drunk, but I knocked serious drinking on the head many moons ago.
I have the odd pint, and a glass of wine with dinner some nights.
My opinion is the less you imbibe as you age the better.
Brain and body slowing down anyway, no need to help it on its way.

Have you considered a breathalyzer test in mornings.
Have a friend who had a few beers each night, and got nicked for driving over the limit next day.
May surprise you what alcohol level you are driving under!

[Stu from NYC]

In my case my body has told me to cut down on drinking. Specifically my liver.

[LuvNH]

I think I provided sufficient information for posters to express an opinion. To me, it is an interesting question.

I stand corrected, it is an interesting question and should get some very interesting answers.

I used to enjoy a drink now and again until one very hot summer day I drank too much and ended up with a three day dry heaves episode. You will only understand how much I wanted to die if you have ever experienced the dry heaves. I no longer drink, even the smell of it turns my stomach.

[badkarma318]

Do you drink by yourself on a regular basis?

Have you ever had any alcohol-related problems - DUIs, arrests/legal issues, physical violence, accidents around the home, "the shakes", etc.?

Do you crave alcohol, or could you quit "cold turkey" if you wanted to - being 100% honest with yourself?

If it has not affected your health in any significant way, and you're always in control and show good judgement (not getting in the golf cart/car right after pounding 4 beers), I see no reason why you should quit.

[dewilson58]

Maybe you should test and see if you have any liver damage.

From Mayo:
As the liver becomes more severely damaged, more obvious and serious symptoms can develop, such as: yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice) swelling in the legs, ankles and feet caused by a build-up of fluid (oedema) swelling in your abdomen caused by a build-up of fluid known as ascites.

How do you get tested for liver damage?
Aspartate transaminase (AST).
What is the best indicator of liver damage?
Aspartate transaminase (AST).
An increase in AST levels may mean liver damage, liver disease or muscle damage. This test is sometimes referred to as SGOT.

You can trust me, I stayed at a Holiday Inn Express last night.

;)

[asianthree]

Quitting would be harder than just cutting back. But at that age why, unless too many are constantly giving the person too much grief to deal with then maybe you just need to get different people.

answer is no why quit now.

[rustyp]

In my case my body has told me to cut down on drinking. Specifically my liver.

I understand the body talking to you but specifically what did the liver say to you ?

[Pugchief]

I think I provided sufficient information for posters to express an opinion. To me, it is an interesting question.

The missing information would be why are you asking? Did your doctor tell you to cut back or quit? If so, why? Did your spouse/partner ask you to quit? If so, why?

If this is something that just came to you in the shower or on the treadmill, my answer would be that it probably doesn't matter at this point after 60 years, so do what you want, but disclaimer: Consult a medical professional and don't take medical advice from strangers on the internet, etc.

[ThirdOfFive]

If you're pushing 80 and otherwise in good health, then why upset the applecart?

[manaboutown]

Alcoholics Anonymous - 10 Questions Are You An Alcoholic?
Do you lose time from work due to drinking?
Is drinking making your home life unhappy?
Is drinking affecting your reputation?
Have you felt remorse after drinking?
Do you crave a drink at a definite time daily?
Do you want a drink the next morning?
Do you drink alone?
Have you ever had a complete loss of memory as a result of drinking?
Is drinking jeopardizing your job or business?
Have you ever been to a hospital or institution on account of your drinking?
If you have answered YES to three or more of these questions, you have a definite problem with alcohol.

[melpetezrinski]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

60 Years? Wow, that is some accomplishment. I would say you have great genes and are very lucky to have survived and with "no serious health issues". Also, if you have been drinking for 60 years, you obviously really enjoy it, so I would say pour yourself another. Cheers!

[Pondboy]

Quit for 30 days, see how you feel.

Follow DEWilsons advice…..

[retiredguy123]

Alcoholics Anonymous - 10 Questions Are You An Alcoholic?
Do you lose time from work due to drinking?
Is drinking making your home life unhappy?
Is drinking affecting your reputation?
Have you felt remorse after drinking?
Do you crave a drink at a definite time daily?
Do you want a drink the next morning?
Do you drink alone?
Have you ever had a complete loss of memory as a result of drinking?
Is drinking jeopardizing your job or business?
Have you ever been to a hospital or institution on account of your drinking?
If you have answered YES to three or more of these questions, you have a definite problem with alcohol.
I passed your test. I knew a guy who drank beer, starting in the morning and he drank beer all day long. He must have drunk at least 50 beers per day. He died at 49 of liver cancer. I really felt sorry for the guy because he had no control over it. I also feel sorry for people who are addicted to smoking.

[Tvflguy]

On this topic re drinking. Last night we had a discussion with friends re drinking in TV and they said bars are open until 2 or 3 am. I raised my eyebrows but didn’t want to say You must be wrong! Are they???

[manaboutown]

I passed your test. I knew a guy who drank beer, starting in the morning and he drank beer all day long. He must have drunk at least 50 beers per day. He died at 49 of liver cancer. I really felt sorry for the guy because he had no control over it. I also feel sorry for people who are addicted to smoking.

Well, it is not "my" test but the questions are good ones. It seems some people are predisposed to addictions whether it be alcohol, a substance, food, exercise, or other activity. Probably the last thing I would ever want to have to give up is my morning coffee.

[margaretmattson]

Well, it is not "my" test but the questions are good ones. It seems some people are predisposed to addictions whether it be alcohol, a substance, food, exercise, or other activity. Probably the last thing I would ever want to have to give up is my morning coffee.At my age, I have learned moderation in ALL things is important. Listening to experts and following their advice is crucial. If you have been told to stop drinking by medical professionals, then do it. If you are healthy, drink alcohol in moderation. There is no sense in risking your health by consuming alcohol daily. There are other things that can bring you enjoyment. The key is to find a balance and knowing when to say, enough is enough. If you are drinking to be part of the crowd, ask yourself. Will they still like me if I do not drink? If the answer is no, you need to find a better group of friends. If you become ill, most likely they will lose your number and won't even send a get well card. You have ONE BODY, take care of it!

[tophcfa]

Since you haven’t gone without 3-4 drinks per day for so long you really don’t know how your body and mind will feel without alcohol. I would suggest you abstain for a month and see what it’s like. If you feel like you have more energy, sleep better, and think clearer without it than that’s your message. If you feel no difference, then why not continue with your routine? It’s really the only way to get the answer you’re looking for in my opinion.

[Topspinmo]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

Better hope it’s not moonshine?
Depends on how much proof in the drink and how tall the glasses are?

[Topspinmo]

At my age, I have learned moderation in ALL things is important. Listening to experts and following their advice is crucial. If you have been told to stop drinking by medical professionals, then do it. If you are healthy, drink alcohol in moderation. There is no sense in risking your health by consuming alcohol daily. There are other things that can bring you enjoyment. The key is to find a balance and knowing when to say, enough is enough. If you are drinking to be part of the crowd, ask yourself. Will they still like me if I do not drink? If the answer is no, you need to find a better group of friends. If you become ill, most likely they will lose your number and won't even send a get well card. You have ONE BODY, take care of it!

Any medical professional will probably tell you to stop drinking alcohol, cola’s, and watch sugar intake I would I imagine?

[Topspinmo]

60 Years? Wow, that is some accomplishment. I would say you have great genes and are very lucky to have survived and with "no serious health issues". Also, if you have been drinking for 60 years, you obviously really enjoy it, so I would say pour yourself another. Cheers!

I’d say 3 is enough… :shrug:

[Freeda]

Yes. Maybe not totally quit, but a simple Google search will show multiple medical sources advising consuming less alcohol than this. It affects your sleep /sleep quality, your very vital liver, and lots of other things. Not worth the risks..

[Cammilot]

Some interesting science. https://youtu.be/DkS1pkKpILY?si=PyRUIklGt3ibtJo7

[PersonOfInterest]

Quitting alcohol completely would probably do no harm and may increase your life span. Continuing to consume alcohol at that rate is likely to be somewhat harmful and may shorten your life. If any of that matters to you then the wise choice is to quit alcohol. If that does not matter to you then continue.

[Blackbird45]

I grew up in a neighborhood, where putting an 8 hour shift in a bar was normal, it was a place to hang out.
The only question that should determine if you should stop or not is if you enjoy it or you need it.
If you enjoy it especially after 60 years, I don't see any reason to stop.
On the other hand, if you need it there is a problem, that is an addiction.
I lost three friends, two to alcohol and one to drugs.

[TEXJK]

Quick question…..what color is your golf cart so I can get the hell out of your way !

[Ele201]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

“Dry January “

It sounds like you have great genetics! If you’re drinking daily, and haven’t had a serious illness yet, that’s remarkable. Of course people “drink” differently. A white wine spritzer with ice is different than a Martini!

So, many people try to cut back or eliminate alcohol using a current trend I’ve read about called Dry January.

BTW I’ve picked up on another trend recently, with 0 alcohol liquor. I tried the 0 proof wines that have been around for awhile and they were awful. However, I tried a couple of new 0 proof liquors with better results. Tried the “tequila alternative” recently, mixed it with lime juice, triple sec and it tasted good. These are premium products and go for $27 to $34 each. You can also cut back on alcohol by using these along with a reduced amount of alcohol.

Anyway, Cheers to a happy 2024!

[Ele201]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

It sounds like you have great genetics! If you’re drinking daily, and haven’t had a serious illness yet, that’s remarkable. Of course people “drink” differently. A white wine spritzer with ice is different than a Martini!

So, many people try to cut back or eliminate alcohol using a current trend I’ve read about called Dry January.

BTW I’ve picked up on another trend recently, with 0 alcohol liquor. I tried the 0 proof wines that have been around for awhile and they were awful. However, I tried a couple of new 0 proof liquors with better results. Tried the “tequila alternative” recently, mixed it with lime juice, triple sec and it tasted good. These are premium products and go for $27 to $34 each. You can also cut back on alcohol by using these along with a reduced amount of alcohol.

Anyway, Cheers to a happy 2024!

[ithos]

It will increase your chance of cancer. Especially if you eat a standard American diet.

7 Sobering Facts About Alcohol’s Link to Cancer | Phelps Health (https://phelpshealth.org/news/featured-stories/7-sobering-facts-about-alcohols-link-cancer)

Three Things to Know

Alcohol has been linked to breast, colorectal, esophagus, liver, mouth, throat and larynx cancers.
Alcohol can damage the DNA in your cells and prevent the body from repairing the cells, which can lead to cells growing out of control.
The best way to reduce your risk of cancer is not to drink alcohol at all.

[Cheapbas]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

“Dry January” is an actual thing, why not try it with a new set of 30 days and see what happens.

[bsloan1960]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.What has prompted you to ask this question- after 60 years. Did you ever ask this question prior to asking it here? If so, why did you ask it then? So, did you ask this here simply because you are curious- or did someone tell you that you drink too much so you are hoping to get a lot of, "You're OK" answers here?

Heavy Alcohol Use (as defined by National Institutes of Health):

NIAAA defines heavy drinking as follows:
For men, consuming five or more drinks on any day or 15 or more per week
For women, consuming four or more on any day or 8 or more drinks per week
SAMHSA defines heavy alcohol use as binge drinking on 5 or more days in the past month.

Drinking Levels Defined | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) (https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/overview-alcohol-consumption/moderate-binge-drinking)

At the 4 drinks per day you claim to limit yourself to, you drink about 2x the amount considered problem drinking. In 60 years you have consumed approx. 600,000 drinks. If your daily consumption is actually closer 5 or 6 drinks that number jumps up to 900,000. You didn't say what you drink, but if each drink averages $2 you have spent $1.2 Million - $1.8 Million on your habit.

Why have I made taken the time to do all this math? I think there was a reason you came here to ask. And I think that somewhere in my long comment you may find an answer.

[Rwirish]

Yes as no one should be drinking 3-4 alcoholic beverages per day.

[TCRSO]

Under similar circumstances, I asked myself the same question two years ago. I decided to quit drinking alcohol. It was not easy (and I still miss that afternoon beer). On the plus side I lost 30 pounds, feel better and am more active.

[Travilinggal]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

if you share this history with your healthcare professional they will document in your history, alcohol dependence and alcohol intake above reasonable daily limit. Which doesn’t mean much unless you choose to change health insurance. This diagnosis/documented problem will increase your rate and drive up the cost of new insurance.

[sully1]

If it makes you feel good and you don’t hurt anyone, drink to your hearts content.Remember, you are responsible for your happiness today! Bottoms Up!

[NoMo50]

The difference between a drunk and an alcoholic is that drunks don't have to go to all those meetings!

[Sandy and Ed]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.
Don’t know…….but my A1C crept over the mark into Diabetes territory. I slowed my consumption to a crawl, went from hard liquors to Ultra and it came down. Just saying….

[Caymus]

I found that I now drink infrequently since I retired. Maybe it is due to less business trips and dinner meetings or a more stress-free life.

Also, I have found that some of the newer no alcohol beers have improved. I have a hard time telling the difference between Guiness "0" and the original.

[donfey]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

If drinking enhances your life, keep it up. If alcohol causes difficulty in your life, why consume any of it? IMO.

[Sully2023]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit?
Opinions please.

Look at it this way. Alcohol by its very nature is a highly addictive drug which changes the way a person thinks, feels acts. It’s a drug - like any other drug. Many times our perceptions and thoughts about alcohol can affect what we choose to drink, how much and how often. It’s not a soft drink! I worked in the field of chemical addiction for eight years and saw how this “safe drug” changes peoples lives. Many of the people I worked with could not stop. I also worked in a hospital where people were undergoing alcohol detoxification. Yea, it’s a safe drug.

Would you choose to consume pain numbing prescription medications everyday? It starts with our attitude about alcohol. Do you really believe it’s a drug and do we treat it like one? For most people no. Look, many people can drink responsibly, there are those in our society who are allergic to alcohol. When consumed, one is not enough.

There are three stages a person goes through as part of the addiction process. Many times, people can’t or do not want to see where they sit in that process.

The question I always asked a person is: Is your drinking helping or hurting? If it’s hurting, do you really want to continue down that path? For many, The answer is: It’s not a problem! Then why are you on your third DUI? Domestic, health problems, - fill it in yourself. Yea, alcohol, the safe drug. Don’t kid yourself. It’s a highly addictive drug which needs to be respected. So, tonight instead of several drinks, look into your medicine cabinet and choose which 3-4 pain killers you want take. Do we really see alcohol as a drug? Do we treat it like one. Most people don’t.

[Vermilion Villager]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the amount of alcoholic drinks you consume in a week is 2 times what is classified as heavy or hazardous drinking.

Instead of an opinion, 3 questions:

1. What is your motivation for asking this question on this forum?
2. If everybody here told you to quit drinking, would you?
3. Could you stop drinking?

[JWGifford]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.
You never really said if it brings you enjoyment? If it does, and it’s not affecting your health, relationships, etc. why change. Agree that stopping for 30 days to see how you feel might be a good test. I enjoy a drink but can tell I sleep better when I dont drink later in the evening. Agree with previous post that it’s largely a matter of genetics how your body manages. Good luck on your quest.

[Happydaz]

I passed your test. I knew a guy who drank beer, starting in the morning and he drank beer all day long. He must have drunk at least 50 beers per day. He died at 49 of liver cancer. I really felt sorry for the guy because he had no control over it. I also feel sorry for people who are addicted to smoking.

For a more objective opinion you could have your spouse or other significant person fill out the questionnaire and compare the answers.

[skarra]

Besides it being a drug as someone pointed out, alcohol is also a poison to your body which requires a number of steps to deal with.

A glass of wine or a beer with a meal is one thing, but if you’re doing it to “relax” then you have an addiction. Then it’s a risk / benefit analysis.

It’s best to ask your friends or family who know you best vs this board.

[airstreamingypsy]

My question is, if you are married, how does your wife feel about your drinking? Do you have fights about it..... does it make her angry? If the answer is yes, you probably have a drinking problem. I had two husbands, who were alcoholics. the first died in a car wreck, the second of organ failure. (We were divorced by then) So, if your drinking is causing problems at home, I say quit.

[Indydealmaker]

With respect, why would you ask a chat line group this question? If you are the drinker and your doctor told you to quit then there may be a reason to stop. Nobody here can possibly answer your question without a lot more information which you probably do not want to put out there.

Why do call TOTV a chat line?

[Pamela1130]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

Is there someone out there who smokes 4 packs of cigarettes out there a day and lives til 90? Sure, but I'm not willing to take that chance.

If you are older, on statins and waking up tired you might want to consider cutting back. It's what you are willing to risk for your health and cognitive function. Will your health improve if you quit? Most likely yes. It's recommended older people drink no more than two drinks a day or less. But you could be the rare Winston Churchill. Best way to answer your question is why don't you try it for a week and see how you feel? Not too late for dry January.

[bp243]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

Since you asked for an opinion, three to four alcoholic beverages a day seems like a lot to a ‘one and done’ social drinker. However, at this point in your life it’s a habit and some would say an addiction, which would be difficult to change unless you choose to do so. However, if someone has asked you to quit for a particular reason (there are many) and you really care about that person, it’s worth consideration.

[kendi]

Maybe you should test and see if you have any liver damage.

From Mayo:
As the liver becomes more severely damaged, more obvious and serious symptoms can develop, such as: yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice) swelling in the legs, ankles and feet caused by a build-up of fluid (oedema) swelling in your abdomen caused by a build-up of fluid known as ascites.

How do you get tested for liver damage?
Aspartate transaminase (AST).
What is the best indicator of liver damage?
Aspartate transaminase (AST).
An increase in AST levels may mean liver damage, liver disease or muscle damage. This test is sometimes referred to as SGOT.

You can trust me, I stayed at a Holiday Inn Express last night.

;)

Exactly what I was thinking, internal damage that hasn’t yet presented itself. And not just the liver.

[kendi]

My question is, if you are married, how does your wife feel about your drinking? Do you have fights about it..... does it make her angry? If the answer is yes, you probably have a drinking problem. I had two husbands, who were alcoholics. the first died in a car wreck, the second of organ failure. (We were divorced by then) So, if your drinking is causing problems at home, I say quit.

Women who grew up in families with addiction issues sometimes, and maybe often don’t recognize the problem even when they are unhappy in the relationship. Saw this over and over again in my line of work.

[Mrfriendly]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

What led you to posting this topic? Caught my eye now curious also. I’m in the 50yr category.

[NotGolfer]

IF you have to ask....maybe that's your answer. Mixing alcohol with the medications many of retirees are on don't mix well.

[dewilson58]

According to the Mayo Clinic, the amount of alcoholic drinks you consume in a week is 2 times what is classified as heavy or hazardous drinking.

VV
Double check your "in a week is 2 times".

Per Mayo:
While moderate alcohol use may offer some health benefits, heavy drinking — including binge drinking — has no health benefits.

Heavy or high-risk drinking is defined as more than three drinks on any day or more than seven drinks a week for women and for men older than age 65, and more than four drinks on any day or more than 14 drinks a week for men age 65 and younger.

Binge drinking is defined as four or more drinks within two hours for women and five or more drinks within two hours for men.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/alcohol/art-20044551

[fdpaq0580]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

At this point, sense has nothing to do with it, imo. Check with your doctor, check with family and friends who will be brutally honest. They will be the ones to tell you if you should quit. If you really need a drink, ever, that might be a hint. I enjoy a drink now and then, but I may go a month b4 my next drink. When I do choose one, it is really enjoyed, not a dally habit. It is a special treat.

By the way, I hope you don't have those 3 or 4 then get behind the wheel. That includes golfcarts.

[gorillarick]

Several years ago I was having anxiety issues.
Told my doctor I quit drinking to see if would help.

He said; "and it didn't right? Made it worse right?"
Yeah, he was right.

[MidWestIA]

Something is missing - why did you ask? Family saying it is too much or something about when you have that buzz on or ? What is it causing you to do you shouldn't or not doing that you should.
Otherwise why worry we are on our way out I want to enjoy it in a reasonable way

[jamorela]

Somebody once told me that there are drinkers and there are alcoholics and there is a big difference.

But I don’t know the answer to the question. Maybe it is a matter of Can the person quit? v. Should the person quit? v. Why should the person quit?

Boomer

If You have ever lived with an true alcoholic, or suffer the disease yourself, you would understand that there is a huge difference between drinkers and alcoholics.

[SouthJerseyGirl]

I just buried my husband, a moderate drinker, from liver disease.

[rsibole]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

Reminds me of the old joke about a man being asked why he wasn’t following his doctor’s advice who told him that if he wanted to live to be an old man like himself he needed to stop drinking. To which the man replied, I thought about it and decided to not stop drinking because there are a lot more old drunks than old doctors.

[Hank’s mom]

[QUOTE=retiredguy123;2292233]For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does i

Not over weight? Blood pressure normal? Then no. But you may be able to defy health issues in future due to aging with no alcohol

[fdpaq0580]

I just buried my husband, a moderate drinker, from liver disease.

My condolences for your loss. 🙏

[Lindawc]

Maybe it’s what’s keeping you going. My dad drank every day. Sometimes from morning until night. He lived to be 85.

[RedWingNut]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

Your brain, your liver, your body, your choice. If you were really that concerned why wouldn’t you ask your doctor ?? This forum is full of what may be well meaning info, its also full of uneducated opinions. To get the best answer, go to a person who has a medical degree:

[Keefelane66]

I cut back on drinking years ago didn’t make me feel any better to drink. Occasionally we’ll enjoy a drink at home but never at bar or restaurant.

[dewilson58]

This forum is full of what may be well meaning info, its also full of uneducated opinions. To get the best answer, go to a person who has a medical degree:

123 has been around ToTV for a long time.

123 is an intelligent person.

It's a social board, 123 knows it and is just asking for opinions.

It's okay.

:posting:

[Toymeister]

Yes, absolutely you should quit.

As the cheapest guy on this forum, Retiredguy123, do you have any idea how much this is costing you?

Anyone else in the same circumstances, no.

[Lea N]

I just buried my husband, a moderate drinker, from liver disease.

I am sorry for your loss.

[thelegges]

123 probably has lived a good life, already got the talk from medical or family/friends.

Life can be short even if you are a vegan. OP I would drop one drink per day see how you do mentally and physically. Then rethink

[fdpaq0580]

Yes, absolutely you should quit.

As the cheapest guy on this forum, Retiredguy123, do you have any idea how much this is costing you?

Anyone else in the same circumstances, no.

Costs me somewhere between 100 to 200 bucks a bottle, more or less. Unless I have help, that bottle can last a year or more. Seldom indulge, but when I do, I want it to be as good as I can get.

[rustyp]

Alcohol is to your liver as pickle-ball is to your knees. Simply a matter of time before either one gives out.

[retiredguy123]

Thanks for all of the opinions and information. For the record, no doctor has ever recommended that I quit drinking. My blood numbers are normal, including my liver tests. But I think that, at some point, everyone needs to make their own decisions about what is good for them. Doctors are great, but they don't know everything.

[justjim]

Thanks for all of the opinions and information. For the record, no doctor has ever recommended that I quit drinking. My blood numbers are normal, including my liver tests. But I think that, at some point, everyone needs to make their own decisions about what is good for them. Doctors are great, but they don't know everything.

Excellent attitude and response. Good luck to you. 👍

[retiredguy123]

Yes, absolutely you should quit.

As the cheapest guy on this forum, Retiredguy123, do you have any idea how much this is costing you?

Anyone else in the same circumstances, no.
I suspect that you are envious that I am cheaper than you, but you just need to try harder. At this point, my problem is that I am going to run out of life before I run out of money.

[Topspinmo]

Alcohol is to your liver as pickle-ball is to your knees. Simply a matter of time before either one gives out.


Couldn’t say same thing with golf and persons back?

[Topspinmo]

I suspect that you are envious that I am cheaper than you, but you just need to try harder. At this point, my problem is that I am going to run out of life before I run out of money.


Don’t most all retirees run out of life before money?

[Topspinmo]

Costs me somewhere between 100 to 200 bucks a bottle, more or less. Unless I have help, that bottle can last a year or more. Seldom indulge, but when I do, I want it to be as good as I can get.

$200 bottle? One born everyday as them say.

[retiredguy123]

Don’t most all retirees run out of life before money?
Hopefully

[dewilson58]

Don’t most all retirees run out of life before money?

Absolutely not.

Huge problem.

[Toymeister]

I suspect that you are envious that I am cheaper than you, but you just need to try harder. At this point, my problem is that I am going to run out of life before I run out of money.

Clearly you are on to me.

But the cheapest guy I know is my brother who dug his basement by hand after the home was built*. It took him two years but he saved a ton of cash.

Top that RG123!

*crawl space converted to basement

[rsimpson]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

I believe two or three would be slightly more healthy (to your well-used liver) as a daily intake, leaning towards the two end of the averrage.
I am not a doctor, but that's what my wife tells ME.

[dewilson58]

I am not a doctor, but that's what my wife tells ME.

:thumbup:

[CoachKandSportsguy]

I just buried my husband, a moderate drinker, from liver disease.

So sorry to hear that. I sucks to watch someone just be addicted to something which will kill them, like alcohol or cigarettes, know it and not be able to do anything. .

[Boomer]

Well. . .retiredguy123, all along this thread, I never thought it was you. I assumed you were "asking for a friend."

Now, I gotta tellya that you must be doing OK because I have never-- never even once -- in all these years -- seen you drunk-post. Over time, I have seen a couple of what I think had to have been drunk-posts (really mean drunk-posts) -- but they were not from you. :)

Boomer

[La lamy]

Can't see why everyone needs to go by these new guidelines. I think to each their own, follow your gut to know what's best for you. Cheers!

[Oneiric]

Alcohol is neurotoxic to the brain, cardiotoxic to the heart and hepatotoxic to the liver, all dose and duration dependent. The liver having an ability to heal itself, if given the chance, the brain and heart less so. As we age, AFIB is a more common heart problem among drinkers.
How you, as an individual, metabolize alcohol on steady long term basis, simply depends on how God made you. Some more sensitive than others.

[Smalley]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

In my opinion, you would be smart to quit drinking alcohol now. Alcohol is a toxin and a carcinogen. You have been drinking twice the upper limit of recommendation by FDA which is too high IMO. If you find it hard to quit drinking, try going to an AA meeting for help and camaraderie.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

What advice does your liver scan and EKG offer you? If your liver and heart are healthy, then enjoy. If not, you can decide for yourself if the risk of spending your last weeks of life suffering in a hospital or having to endure dialysis is greater or lesser than the reward of enjoying a few drinks every day.

Of course - if it's truly a concern, you could just try cutting back, have one drink a day, and see how it goes from there.

[manaboutown]

Recently I saw a cartoon of a woman visiting a gravesite. The inscription on the headstone listed the dates the man had given up smoking, red meat, alcohol on so on. The last line gave a date followed by "He died anyway."

[Stu from NYC]

What advice does your liver scan and EKG offer you? If your liver and heart are healthy, then enjoy. If not, you can decide for yourself if the risk of spending your last weeks of life suffering in a hospital or having to endure dialysis is greater or lesser than the reward of enjoying a few drinks every day.

Of course - if it's truly a concern, you could just try cutting back, have one drink a day, and see how it goes from there.

The older I get the more I believe in numbers. My DR has me do a very comprehensive blood test several times a year and that guides me in many ways as I want to see my grandkids grow up.

[Topspinmo]

Yes, absolutely you should quit.

As the cheapest guy on this forum, Retiredguy123, do you have any idea how much this is costing you?

Anyone else in the same circumstances, no.

I can give him run for the title…

[Topspinmo]

Absolutely not.

Huge problem.

Wouldn’t that be lack preparation problems.. or several divorces? Some people can never retire due to leaches and some are unemployable so I would put them in retirement category.

[Topspinmo]

The older I get the more I believe in numbers. My DR has me do a very comprehensive blood test several times a year and that guides me in many ways as I want to see my grandkids grow up.

Several times year? Only so much you can do before it becomes repetitive clogging up system.

[Topspinmo]

Recently I saw a cartoon of a woman visiting a gravesite. The inscription on the headstone listed the dates the man had given up smoking, red meat, alcohol on so on. The last line gave a date followed by "He died anyway."

Only heard stories one who got out of this world alive? :oops:

[dougawhite]

Simple, everybody knows that alcohol kills germs. It therefore also kills germs inside your digestive track. So as you drink alcohol, you destroy your microbiome, which is made of 'beneficial germs'. A messed up microbiome causes all sorts of problems because you get all your body's needs from digesting food. Screw up your microbiome and you disrupt digestion, and don't get the elements your body needs.

[dhdallas]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

If you are even thinking that you might have a problem with alcohol then you probably do. Try going without for a week & see how you feel. Do you miss it, do you feel antsy or irritable, are you counting the days until you can have a drink again, do you feel depressed? A non-alcoholic can take it or leave it for any length of time without giving it a thought. Take it from one who knows.

[Topspinmo]

Covid started me drinking.

[dewilson58]

Covid started me drinking.

a lot of starters and a lot more volume per participant

sales increased significantly during the flu

[dewilson58]

Wouldn’t that be lack preparation problems.. or several divorces? Some people can never retire due to leaches and some are unemployable so I would put them in retirement category.

Unfortunately there are lots of reasons including lack of prep, divorces, medical, etc.

Also, when 50% of the population does not pay income taxes........they probably ain't saving.

No easy solution.

[MrFlorida]

You have been doing this for 60 years ? Assuming you started in your 20's , if it hasn't killed you yet in your 80's, then by all means keep gooing.

[daca55]

You don’t say how old you are. I am in my 70s and I can tell you that I still drink almost everyday because I don’t want how I feel when I wake up the best I’m going to feel all day!

[Stu from NYC]

Several times year? Only so much you can do before it becomes repetitive clogging up system.

How would a blood test taken several times a year clog up my system?

[gighilton]

Always depends! If you want to play better golf ... quit. If not nobody cares but you!

[coffeebean]

Juice has too much sugar, coffee and tea have caffeine that is bad, decaf is done with chemicals which are bad, even bottled water is now bad so really what can you safely drink?

I know this thread is about alcoholic beverages but I would like to comment on decaf coffee. I've been drinking decaf for over 40 years and never really knew how or what was used to remove the caffeine in coffee. I found this article to be very informative. According to this article, decaf coffee is safe to drink.......

Is decaf coffee safe? (https://www.ncausa.org/Decaffeinated-Coffee)

[Professor]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

Why even drink 3-4 drinks per day. Life is full of interesting and fun things to do. Alcohol can distort ones thinking even at mild drinking levels, so does anyone need to daily distort their perception of reality? If so, that is rather sad.

I am not against drinking, and I enjoy a good glass or two of Scotch once or twice a week at most, but not daily. Life is too short to waste it, as I learned recently when my spouse passed away after a short battle with cancer. Take it all in each day.

[manaboutown]

I know this thread is about alcoholic beverages but I would like to comment on decaf coffee. I've been drinking decaf for over 40 years and never really knew how or what was used to remove the caffeine in coffee. I found this article to be very informative. According to this article, decaf coffee is safe to drink.......

Is decaf coffee safe? (https://www.ncausa.org/Decaffeinated-Coffee)

I think the Swiss water process provides chemical free decaffeination.

My father's physician told him to go to decaf after he discovered my father was drinking 22 cups of coffee a day - old time coffee cups, not the large mugs we use today. At that time Sanka was all that was available so he drank that. My father went on to live almost 94 years.

My father loved Jim Beam and Jack Daniels and after he retired during his seventies and eighties drank some from an old time small fruit juice glass at 10, 2 and 4, like Dr. Pepper. In his late 80s he had to cut back on the booze as he and my mother moved to an independent living facility where he could not keep alcohol in the apartment. He had a male friend there with whom he would go out and have a few drinks now and then.

[Stu from NYC]

I think the Swiss water process provides chemical free decaffeination.

My father's physician told him to go to decaf after he realized my father was drinking 22 cups of coffee a day - old time coffee cups, not the large mugs we use today. At that time Sanka was all that was available so he drank that. My father went on to live almost 94 years.

My father loved Jim Beam and Jack Daniels and during his seventies and eighties drank some from an old time small fruit juice glass at 10, 2 and 4, like Dr. Pepper. In his late 80s he had to cut back on the booze as he and my mother moved to an independent living facility where he could not keep alcohol in the apartment. He had a male friend there with whom he would go out and have a few drinks now and then.

If I drank 22 cups of coffee a day would never get more than 10 ft from bathroom before having to go back.

[manaboutown]

If I drank 22 cups of coffee a day would never get more than 10 ft from bathroom before having to go back.

My guess is his 22 cups might amount to 7 or 8 of today's size coffee mugs. Our china cups at home were small, the cafe's larger.

His doctor asked Dad to keep track so he made a mark on a piece of paper for every cup. Those years Dad was selling furniture and floor covering (carpets and rugs) at a downtown Montgomery Ward store. The salesmen got breaks and went around the corner to a cafe. A restroom was right there on the floor where he worked. He never had a prostate problem. Doc told my brother when Dad was in his early 90s his prostate was the size of a walnut so that was why he could hold so much liquid, I guess.

[ThirdOfFive]

Always depends! If you want to play better golf ... quit. If not nobody cares but you!
Huh?? Drinking IMPROVES your golf!

Couple of years back my sister-in-law, an avid golfer, was visiting from Milwaukee. We were playing Saddlebrook and I was having a pretty forgettable round. So my sister-in-law suggested some "aiming fluid", which happened to be a beer. Very next hole, I scored a hole-in-one.

True story.

[Bonanza]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.

An alcoholic should always make an attempt to quit.
Go to an AA meeting.
You should and will glean good, solid information there.

[mikeycereal]

What’s the difference between me and a camel?

A camel can work all week without drinking, I can drink all week without working.

:duck:

[manaboutown]

An alcoholic should always make an attempt to quit.
Go to an AA meeting.
You should and will glean good, solid information there.

While AA can offer a good program for some people last I heard only about 3% of its members are able to remain sober the remainder of their lives. Most do not make it.

Some bad folks attend and act as sponsors. Some people attend to deal drugs, others to score drugs - and other stuff. Here is a documentary on the 13th step.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m5TW0cDF9cc

[CFrance]

An alcoholic should always make an attempt to quit.
Go to an AA meeting.
You should and will glean good, solid information there.

WAIT A MINUTE!!!!!!!!!!!!!! There's a dog on the couch there. I rest my case.:BigApplause:

[tophcfa]

Huh?? Drinking IMPROVES your golf!

Couple of years back my sister-in-law, an avid golfer, was visiting from Milwaukee. We were playing Saddlebrook and I was having a pretty forgettable round. So my sister-in-law suggested some "aiming fluid", which happened to be a beer. Very next hole, I scored a hole-in-one.

True story.

aiming fluid? I thought it was swing oil.

[flflowers]

just some FYI....my neighbor drank a highball every day for last 50 years. He had to go into hospital for some minor heart(never minor) surgery. He started to go through withdrawals and no one could understand what was happening until they realized it was withdrawals. He passed 28 days later, never able to have his surgery because body was too toxic from the alcohol.

[Eg_cruz]

Personally, I think it makes no sense, and could possibly be harmful. But, I don't know.
How could quitting alcohol be unhealthy?
If it doesn’t affect your daily life, your personality and if you’re not killing your liver then “Live and let Live”
I do think 4 drinks a day everyday seems to me will sooner or later it will come for your liver.

[Ecuadog]

Drinking killed my uncle. A beer truck ran over him.

[dewilson58]

just some FYI....my neighbor drank a highball every day for last 50 years. He had to go into hospital for some minor heart(never minor) surgery. He started to go through withdrawals and no one could understand what was happening until they realized it was withdrawals. He passed 28 days later, never able to have his surgery because body was too toxic from the alcohol.

One per day.................I call bologna

[Caymus]

One per day.................I call bologna

They didn't say what size.:laugh::laugh:

[dewilson58]

They didn't say what size.:laugh::laugh:

:BigApplause:

[Topspinmo]

Drinking killed my uncle. A beer truck ran over him.

What way to go. :D

[Topspinmo]

How could quitting alcohol be unhealthy?
If it doesn’t affect your daily life, your personality and if you’re not killing your liver then “Live and let Live”
I do think 4 drinks a day everyday seems to me will sooner or later it will come for your liver.


It’s the preservative in other stuff that probably kill you eventually. :duck:

[manaboutown]

105 year old woman still drinks Fireball. Ohio Woman Celebrates 105th Birthday With 105 Fireball Shots (https://countrymusicfamily.com/ohio-woman-celebrates-105th-birthday-with-105-fireball-shots/?fbclid=IwAR1iWUMtEN51kL5XRv3ZeXx9kjvc1GSyECtxeb_A 2QVRgeWiw_UudtgimAI)

[Ken Nelson]

I was impressed with the people who did not attack the person & the question! None of my business what or when you drink....But Yay non judgementle people!

[Pugchief]

just some FYI....my neighbor drank a highball every day for last 50 years. He had to go into hospital for some minor heart(never minor) surgery. He started to go through withdrawals and no one could understand what was happening until they realized it was withdrawals. He passed 28 days later, never able to have his surgery because body was too toxic from the alcohol.

One per day.................I call bologna

Ya, hard to believe anyone would have "withdrawal symptoms" from one drink per day. So either they were drinking a heck of a lot more, or it wasn't alcohol withdrawal.

[kingofbeer]

For someone with no serious health issues, and who has been drinking 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages every day for 60 years, does it really make any sense to quit? Opinions please.
Health issues yes.

[Topspinmo]

105 year old woman still drinks Fireball. Ohio Woman Celebrates 105th Birthday With 105 Fireball Shots (https://countrymusicfamily.com/ohio-woman-celebrates-105th-birthday-with-105-fireball-shots/?fbclid=IwAR1iWUMtEN51kL5XRv3ZeXx9kjvc1GSyECtxeb_A 2QVRgeWiw_UudtgimAI)


Fireball pretty mild 60 proof or so?

[Topspinmo]

How would a blood test
taken several times a year clog up my system?

Me getting appointments in over populated with old people

[Topspinmo]

Always depends! If you want to play better golf ... quit. If not nobody cares but you!


Moat reach certain level and don’t get no better no matter what doing:)

[Topspinmo]

Clearly you are on to me.

But the cheapest guy I know is my brother who dug his basement by hand after the home was built*. It took him two years but he saved a ton of cash.

Top that RG123!

*crawl space converted to basement


My grandpa done that but he was dirt poor.

[Carla B]

My grandpa done that but he was dirt poor.

My father did the same, at age 40, in 1929, just back from a 4-month honeymoon trip through the South in a new car. So not exactly dirt poor, just turned up a lot of dirt.

[badkarma318]

Moat reach certain level and don’t get no better no matter what doing:)

Reading that made me feel like I just had 3 to 4 alcoholic beverages.

[Dusty_Star]

One per day.................I call bologna

Completely agree. One gallon per day.... Or iatrogenesis.

[Dusty_Star]

I know this thread is about alcoholic beverages but I would like to comment on decaf coffee. I've been drinking decaf for over 40 years and never really knew how or what was used to remove the caffeine in coffee. I found this article to be very informative. According to this article, decaf coffee is safe to drink.......

Is decaf coffee safe? (https://www.ncausa.org/Decaffeinated-Coffee)

Darlin' your link is to the National Coffee Association. Not probably the most disinterested folks.

[Dusty_Star]

Huh?? Drinking IMPROVES your golf!

Couple of years back my sister-in-law, an avid golfer, was visiting from Milwaukee. We were playing Saddlebrook and I was having a pretty forgettable round. So my sister-in-law suggested some "aiming fluid", which happened to be a beer. Very next hole, I scored a hole-in-one.

True story.

:smiley: Sounds like Ben Hogan: Golf is 30% physical, 70% mental