Saturday, January 11, 2014

Does Alcohol Kill Brain Cells?

We have all heard the herd theory from the character Cliff Claven from the TV show Cheers about how alcohol helps make you smarter:

“Well, you see, Norm, it’s like this. A herd of buffalo can only move as fast as the slowest buffalo. And when the herd is hunted, it’s the slowest and weakest ones at the back that are killed first. This natural selection is good for the herd as a whole, because the general speed and health of the whole group keeps improving by the regular killing of the weakest members.

In much the same way, the human brain can only operate as fast as the slowest brain cells. Now, as we know, excessive intake of alcohol kills brain cells. But naturally, it attacks the slowest and weakest brain cells first. In this way, regular consumption of beer eliminates the weaker brain cells, making the brain a faster and more efficient machine.

And that, Norm, is why you always feel smarter after a few beers.” 

BTW: This was never actually said on the show.

Whoda thunk that alcohol doesn't actually kill brain cells!


So, there may be OTHER issues from excessive alcohol consumption, but that isn't one of them.

You are welcome!

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