Professor Anatoly Glushchenko claims beer increases female hormones and alters male and female behavior in Russia

A recent interview with Anatoly Glushchenko, a professor at the International Academy of Sobriety, has reignited debate about the effects of beer on the human body.

Speaking to Abzats, Glushchenko made bold claims, suggesting that beer — even non-alcoholic varieties — can influence hormone levels and fundamentally alter men and women.

Hops, Phytoestrogens, and Estradiol

Glushchenko focused on hops, a key ingredient in beer, which he described as containing high levels of phytoestrogens.

According to the professor, these plant-based compounds mimic the female sex hormone estradiol, and he claimed that once ingested, they can reshape male physiology over time.

In men, Glushchenko suggested, prolonged beer consumption could lead to higher voices, narrower shoulders, wider hips, larger stomachs, and a loss of traditional masculinity.

Beyond the physical, he argued that these hormonal shifts could alter social behavior and psychological traits, making men more fearful and socially withdrawn.

Women and Beer: A Different Effect

Glushchenko didn’t spare women from his assertions either.

He claimed that excessive beer consumption could trigger social and moral degradation, suggesting it increases “lustful tendencies.”

These statements have drawn widespread criticism, particularly from social commentators and gender specialists, who challenge the scientific basis of his claims.

Scientific Skepticism and Real Health Risks

Medical experts are quick to point out that the effects Glushchenko describes are exaggerated.

While phytoestrogens do exist in hops, their influence on human hormone levels is significantly weaker than naturally occurring hormones.

Moderate beer consumption, researchers note, has not been proven to produce dramatic physical or psychological changes.

That said, heavy alcohol use carries well-documented risks.

Men who consume large amounts of beer may experience weight gain, reduced testosterone, liver strain, and cardiovascular problems.

These health issues, experts stress, are generally linked to alcohol’s metabolic effects rather than plant-based estrogens.

Broader Societal Implications

Glushchenko also argued that beer harms families, claiming it diminishes self-preservation instincts and reduces the desire to have children.

These comments have sparked debates about personal responsibility and cultural attitudes toward alcohol in Russia.

Politics and Advertising Restrictions

The professor’s remarks arrive amid ongoing discussions in the Russian State Duma about regulating beverage advertising.

Lawmakers are reportedly considering bans on sugary drinks, energy drinks, and potentially even non-alcoholic beer, restricting their promotion on television and in media channels similar to alcohol and tobacco restrictions.

Public Reaction: Divided Opinions

The claims have divided public opinion.

Supporters of sobriety laud Glushchenko’s warnings, while medical professionals caution against presenting unverified statements as scientific truth.

Social media debates have highlighted the tension between cultural drinking habits, public health, and scientific literacy.

What’s Next

As the discussion continues, experts stress the importance of separating fact from conjecture.

While beer certainly has health implications, the dramatic hormonal effects suggested by Glushchenko remain largely unproven.

Russian lawmakers and citizens alike are watching closely as debates over alcohol, advertising, and public health unfold.