Temperance
A general definition of temperance would be abstaining from what is harmful and using even that which is good in moderation. While it’s not often realized, even a good thing can be bad when used to excess. Also consider that nothing that is truly good for you is at the same time bad for you. Living temperately teaches us to avoid what is bad for us and to balance everything else.
Why is temperance important? It’s all about your brain – more specifically, your frontal lobe. The frontal lobe is the center for mental focus, long-term memory, and rational and logical thinking. It is also the seat of morality, where the will and drive reside. It is the place where we make choices. As such, everything affects our frontal lobe, and that’s why temperance is important.
Temperance defined:
Common intemperant habits and their impact on life expectancy
Many intemperate behaviors are considered normal; however, they lead to the most severe adverse outcomes. (The use of hard drugs, while prevalent, is not included, as it is commonly accepted as being dangerous.) The list includes:
Use of alcohol
Use of marijuana
Use of Coffie
Use of sugar and corn syrup
Use of tobacco
Use of Alcohol
Alcohol, in all its forms, has substantial adverse effects on nearly every major organ system when consumed excessively or regularly. Even moderate drinking can have measurable impacts over time. Here’s a breakdown of how alcohol affects the body and how alcohol abuse shortens lifespan:
Brain and Nervous System
Cardiovascular System
Liver and Metabolism
Brain and Nervous System
Endocrine and Digestive Systems
Longevity and Aging
Recovery and Longevity Protection
Accelerated aging: Chronic alcohol use speeds up telomere shortening (a key marker of aging).
Immune suppression: Weakens defense against infection and cancer.
Mortality: Research shows heavy drinkers live 10–20 years less on average than non-drinkers.
Moderate consumption: Even 1–2 drinks daily can increase risks for cancer, heart disease, and dementia over decades.
Immediate effects: Impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time by depressing the central nervous system.
Long-term effects: Chronic use damages neurons, leading to memory loss, learning difficulties, anxiety, and depression.
Neurodegeneration: Alcohol shrinks gray matter, reducing brain volume and cognitive function with age.