Alcohol can damage the liver
One of the most serious health effects of drinking alcohol is that it can damage the liver. When the liver is exposed to too much alcohol, it becomes inflamed and scarred, a condition known as alcoholic hepatitis. Over time, this scarring can lead to cirrhosis, a deadly form of liver disease in which the liver is unable to function properly. Cirrhosis can cause serious complications such as jaundice, fluid buildup in the abdomen, and liver failure. People who drink heavily are at an increased risk of developing liver cancer.
It’s important to note that drinking in moderation does not necessarily cause liver damage. In fact, some studies have shown that drinking moderately (defined as up to two drinks per day for men, and one drink per day for women) can have a protective effect on the liver. However, even moderate drinking can increase the risk of liver damage if it is combined with certain other factors, such as obesity, diabetes, or hepatitis C infection.
Alcohol can increase the risk of cancer
Consuming alcohol can increase the risk of certain types of cancers, including breast cancer, colon cancer, and liver cancer. Women who drink more than one alcoholic beverage a day have an increased risk of developing breast cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends limiting your intake of alcoholic beverages to no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women.