Excessive drinking over a period of years may lead to problems which affect memory, learning and other functions.

Alcohol has a direct affect on the brain cells, particularly in the front part of the brain, resulting in poor judgment, difficulty making decisions and lack of insight.

Nutrition problems which accompany chronic heavy use of alcohol are thought to be responsible for some of these difficulties. Key parts of the brain may suffer damage through vitamin deficiencies, leaving the person with little ability to learn new things while other abilities may be left intact. There may be personality changes in addition to intellectual impairment.

At an early stage, problems may be reversed if the person abstains from alcohol, diet is improved and vitamins replaced.

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