Iron is an essential mineral, best known for its critical role in cellular oxygen transport. However, having too much iron in the brain drives cognitive deficits. A 2022 study found that alcohol consumption promotes iron deposition in the brain, compromising cognitive function, even among moderate drinkers.

The investigation involved nearly 21,000 adults enrolled in the UK Biobank study. Participants provided information about their alcohol intake and completed a battery of cognitive tests. Researchers performed magnetic resonance imaging scans to assess iron levels in the participants' brains and livers.

They found that, on average, participants consumed about 18 units of alcohol per week, roughly equivalent to ten 12-ounce beers or ten 5-ounce glasses of wine. Participants who consumed as few as 7 units of alcohol per week had higher levels of iron in the brain’s putamen and caudate (in the basal ganglia) and in the substantia nigra (in the midbrain), areas involved in learning, memory, reward processing, and movement. Higher iron levels in the basal ganglia were associated with slower executive function, lower fluid intelligence, and slower reaction times. Those who consumed more than 11 units of alcohol per week had higher iron levels in their livers.

These findings suggest that moderate alcohol consumption has marked effects on the brain and cognition, likely due to excess iron deposition. Alcohol consumption is associated with a wide range of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, liver dysfunction, and cancer. However, vigorous exercise can help reduce alcohol cravings. Learn more in this video featuring Dr. Rhonda Patrick.