Oscar nominated actor Gerard Depardieu said in an interview with So Film that he consumes “12, 13, 14 bottles of wine per day,” and does not feel any effects. His admission comes following a five time bypass surgery on his heart. Depardieu says that he drinks but never feels as though he is intoxicated. Dr. George Koob, Director of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), said that consuming this large amount of alcohol is possible but could be an exaggeration.
The CDC, Centers for Disease Control, defines binge drinking for a male at more than 15 drinks consumed in a week’s time. This number decreases for women at 8 drinks per week.
There is an adjustment to consumption in people who drink large amounts of alcohol. Koob says that the body can, “induce the [ADH] enzyme that breaks down alcohol in [one’s] liver, so you can double your metabolism, [a person will be] able to walk around with a blood alcohol level that would normally kill a person.”
There are also those who have a genetic disposition to have a high tolerance. This however is not met without consequence. Even though a person can function properly with a large amount of alcohol in the bloodstream, that does not mean that the body is not experiencing medical consequence like Depardieu. Medical issues such as cirrhosis of the liver, high blood pressure, improper nerve function, pancreatitis, gastrointestinal disorder, stomach ulcer, cancer, mental function, and dementia can occur with extended alcohol use.
A study published in medical journal PLOS ONE, found that one binge drinking alcohol session can increase the serum endotoxin and bacteria produced by the gut in healthy individuals.
Using alcohol can impair your ability to drive or walk. Koob cautions that, “Even though you think you’re okay, your blind spot becomes bigger, your reaction time is slowed, and your judgment is off.”
If you or someone you love is struggling with their alcohol consumption, there is help available. New Directions for Women understands that there can be a denial of addiction. Our qualified, loving staff can help with staging an intervention or speaking with you or your loved one about treatment for addiction. A family intervention is a way for family and friends to confront someone that they care about with the kindness and respect that they deserve. Interventions allow loved ones to convey direct honesty as they help their loved one find the help that they need.
New Directions for Women is a treatment facility located in California that offers help to women of all ages, pregnant women in any trimester, and women with children. Founded in 1977, our courageous and visionary founders asked for the help of Newport Beach Junior League members to fulfill their vision of a tranquil home-like facility that would treat women with dignity and respect. Our caring admissions counselors are available 24/7 to take your call and answer any questions you may have on getting help. Reach us by phone at 800-93-WOMEN. We can help. Stay in the loop with New Directions for Women by connecting with us on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn.
