Effects of Problematic Alcohol Consumption on Skeletal Muscle

A focus on athletic performance.

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This study examined the impact of alcohol consumption on skeletal muscle function and structure, with implications for muscle performance and athletic ability.

PMID: 35389308

Key Points

The study addresses the association between chronic alcohol misuse and alcoholic myopathy, characterised by skeletal muscle weakness and atrophy. It also highlights the higher prevalence of problematic alcohol consumption, particularly binge-drinking (BD), among sports-related individuals.

The objective was to review the literature on how alcohol consumption affects skeletal muscle function and structure, potentially impacting muscle performance.

Methodology

The researchers conducted a narrative review by examining the available literature, focusing on studies in humans and animal models related to problematic alcohol consumption and its effects on skeletal muscle function and exercise performance.

Findings

Effects on Muscle Recovery

• Alcohol consumption can negatively influence muscle recovery after vigorous exercise, especially in men.

• Women appear to be less affected by alcohol's impact on muscle recovery.

Mechanisms of Alcohol-Related Muscle Dysfunction

1. Imbalance between anabolic and catabolic pathways

2. Reduced muscle regeneration

3. Increased inflammation and fibrosis

4. Deficiencies in energetic balance and mitochondrial function

Drinking Patterns and Muscle Health

• These pathological features can occur not only under chronic alcohol misuse but also in other alcohol consumption patterns.

• Episodic binge-drinking, common among amateur and professional athletes, is underrepresented in laboratory-based studies.

Practical Takeaways

1. Athletes, especially male athletes, should be cautious about alcohol consumption, particularly after intense exercise sessions, as it may hinder muscle recovery.

2. Coaches and sports nutritionists should educate athletes about the potential negative impacts of alcohol on muscle function and performance.

3. Recovery strategies should consider the potential effects of alcohol consumption on muscle regeneration and inflammation.

Key Takeaways

1. Alcohol consumption negatively affects skeletal muscle health through various mechanisms, potentially contributing to reduced sports performance.

2. The effects of alcohol on muscle function appear to be more pronounced in men compared to women.

3. Both chronic alcohol misuse and other patterns of consumption, including binge-drinking, can lead to detrimental effects on muscle health.

4. More research is needed on the effects of episodic binge-drinking, which is common among athletes but underrepresented in current studies

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Reference

Caceres-Ayala C, Pautassi RM, Acuña MJ, Cerpa W, Rebolledo DL. The functional and molecular effects of problematic alcohol consumption on skeletal muscle: a focus on athletic performance. Am J Drug Alcohol Abuse. 2022 Mar 4;48(2):133-147. doi: 10.1080/00952990.2022.2041025. Epub 2022 Apr 7. PMID: 35389308.