Drinking more than half a liter of beer daily, a powerful craving to drink it, and tremors in the limbs are indicators of a serious beer addiction. A psychologist, psychiatrist-narcologist, and chief physician at the AlkoSpas clinic, Alexander Polikarpov, discussed this in an interview with socialbites.ca.
He warned that a strong affection for beer can lead to dependence, and it harms the heart, blood vessels, nervous system, and kidneys while contributing to unwanted weight gain.
There is a specific term for this malady: gambrinism. The condition is named after the legendary Flemish king Gambrinus, said to have invented beer brewing. In medical terms, gambrinism is recognized as a real disease that appears in official manuals, much like other forms of alcohol dependence, and it carries health risks.
Polikarpov noted that beer is typically viewed as a low-alcohol beverage, but regular consumption can still foster addiction.
Typical signs of beer alcoholism include consuming more than 0.5 liters of beer per day, usually a single can, a persistent urge to drink, and tremors in the limbs. Beyond these visible signs, internal effects emerge as the vascular system changes, indicating that the body as a whole is affected, the narcologist explained.
The doctor also pointed out that the kidneys and nervous system can suffer damage, and recurring headaches may develop as a result.
Some people claim that beer offers health benefits. Yet even the vitamin content of beer, which is modest compared to tea or mineral water, cannot offset the damage caused by ethyl alcohol. Excessive beer use can lead to weight gain, and beer contains a noticeable amount of carbohydrates that contribute to daily caloric intake.
The former narcologist also discussed safe levels of alcohol consumption, noting that moderation matters and that individual tolerance varies. He emphasized that responsibility, awareness of one’s limits, and seeking help when dependence is suspected are crucial steps for anyone concerned about their drinking habits.
In Canada and the United States, awareness campaigns and healthcare guidance stress that even beverages perceived as light can pose risks if consumed in excess. Medical professionals encourage people to monitor their intake, recognize early signs of dependence, and seek support if concerns arise. Education about the health impacts of alcohol, including beer, remains essential for reducing the burden of alcohol-related illnesses.
Ultimately, understanding gambrinism as a legitimate health condition helps reduce stigma and encourages individuals to pursue appropriate care. Early intervention, behavioral support, and, when necessary, medical treatment can improve outcomes and reduce the harm caused by long-term beer consumption.