Is Alcohol Actually Poison?

2026-01-06

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We’re giving you a peak behind the curtain as we share our first ever pilot episode of No Appointment Necessary, and it’s very fitting if you're doing Dry January. Join Cherry Healey and Dr Amir Khan as they take a look at alcohol. What it actually does to your body, your brain, and your hormones. Find out why women get drunk faster than men (and how your menstrual cycle, perimenopause and menopause change everything), plus why alcohol is technically a poison, why there’s no truly “safe” level of drinking, and how “wine o’clock” cu...

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Have a question, feedback, or want to suggest a topic? Email: noappointmentpodcast@gmail.com

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The content of No Appointment Necessary is for general information, it's not a substitute for a personalised medical assessment. Always consider your own medical history and personal circumstances before acting on any health information.

A Viral Tribe Production

Developed and produced by James Carpenter & Jo Scarratt-Jones

00:00 – Introduction

01:40 – What Happens in Your Body When You Drink Alcohol

03:55 – Alcohol and the Brain: Dopamine, Blackouts & Coordination

06:30 – Why Alcohol Is Addictive & the Dopamine Chase

08:40 – Do Men and Women Process Alcohol Differently?

11:10 – Menstrual Cycles, Perimenopause & Getting Drunker

14:30 – Hangovers, Genetics & Alcohol Intolerance

17:30 – Social Drinking, Mum Wine Culture & UK Drinking Habits

21:00 – Is There a Safe Way to Drink? Units, Limits & Dependency

25:45 – Cutting Back, Sober Curious & Healthier Dopamine Hits