Research coming out of the University of Granada shows that there is a genetic predisposition to become addicted to alcohol. According to the study, “although there are no specific reasons to become alcoholic, many social, family, environmental and genetic factors may contribute to its development.”
According to Jose Rico Irles, head of the research group and professor of Medicine at University of Granada, low beta-endorphin levels determine whether someone may become an alcoholic. Focusing on the low beta-endorphin levels found in chronic alcohol abusers, researchers looked at the levels in children between the ages of 6 months and 10 years old. 200 families with at least one chronic alcoholic parent participated in the study. Comparing levels of beta-endorphin in these children with those of other children of the same age, the study’s population proved to have lower levels. Children in the same group that had two alcohol-abusing parents showed even lower levels of beta-endorphins.
While consumption of alcohol does not affect everyone the same way, the differences in endorphin levels could make some people more susceptible to alcohol abuse. In regards to the findings, Professor Rico says, “Alcohol-abuse prevention must consist of locating and identifying genetically predisposed subjects.” He contends that more campaigns should be focused on young people in order to prevent alcohol addiction all together.
Read the press release: “A research of the UGR shows the genetic predisposition to develop alcohol abuse.”
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