Why over-drinking alcohol is more dangerous for your organs than you think

Health risks of drinking alcohol: Long-term heavy drinking can cause permanent brain damage, leading to memory issues, cognitive decline, and mental health disorders like depression and anxiety (Image: Canva)

Does December, the last month of the year, make you excited for parties and celebrations? If so, beware if alcohol is involved. While alcohol has been a part of social gatherings and rituals for centuries, experts urge caution when it comes to drinking. Although moderate consumption may seem harmless, overconsumption can severely affect health. Medical professionals strongly advise limiting alcohol intake to avoid potential long-term effects.

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), drinking alcohol in excess can interfere with critical bodily functions. The body metabolises alcohol, and over time, excessive intake can disrupt systems such as the brain, liver, heart, and pancreas. This makes it important to limit alcohol consumption to safeguard your health.

Alongside, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) suggests a strong link between alcohol and several types of cancer. It states that the more alcohol a person consumes over time, the higher their risk of developing cancer. Even those who drink moderately can face an increased risk. Specifically, alcohol has been linked to cancers such as those in the liver, breast, oesophagus, and head/neck. A significant portion of cancer deaths, about 3.5 percent, are alcohol-related, emphasising the serious risks involved.

Also read | 11 ways drinking alcohol messes with your health. Stop now

• Brain: Alcohol impairs brain function, affecting mood regulation, decision-making, and motor coordination. Long-term heavy drinking can cause permanent brain damage, leading to memory issues, cognitive decline, and mental health disorders like depression and anxiety.

• Cancer: Alcohol has been linked to an increased risk of various cancers, including liver, breast, and colorectal cancers. The National Cancer Institute emphasises that alcohol acts as a carcinogen, causing genetic mutations and impairing the body's ability to repair DNA. The more alcohol consumed over time, the higher the risk of developing cancer, even with moderate intake.

• Digestive system: Alcohol irritates the digestive tract, causing gastritis, ulcers, and acid reflux. Long-term use can damage the stomach lining and prevent the proper absorption of nutrients. This leads to malnutrition, vitamin deficiencies, and digestive disorders.

• Heart: Excessive alcohol consumption over time can lead to serious heart conditions such as cardiomyopathy (weakened heart muscle), arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), and heart failure. It also increases the risk of stroke and high blood pressure, which can further damage the cardiovascular system and overall health.

• Immune system: Chronic alcohol use weakens the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to fight infections. This increases the risk of contracting diseases like pneumonia, tuberculosis, and even COVID-19. Drinking heavily in one sitting can reduce the body's immune response for up to 24 hours, leaving individuals more vulnerable to infections.

• Liver: The liver works to process alcohol, but excessive drinking can overwhelm it, leading to inflammation (alcoholic hepatitis), fatty liver, and ultimately cirrhosis. Cirrhosis can lead to liver failure, necessitating a transplant in severe cases. Alcohol-related liver disease is one of the most common causes of death worldwide.

• Mental health: Alcohol has a strong connection to mental health issues. While initially providing relaxation, prolonged alcohol use can exacerbate anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. It can also lead to alcohol dependency or addiction, which further worsens psychological well-being.

• Pancreas: Chronic alcohol use irritates the pancreas, causing it to produce harmful substances that lead to pancreatitis. This condition can cause severe pain, digestive issues, and long-term complications, including difficulty absorbing nutrients and controlling blood sugar levels, which can lead to diabetes.

• Sleep disorders: While alcohol may help some people fall asleep, it disrupts sleep cycles, particularly REM sleep, which is crucial for rest and recovery. Chronic alcohol consumption leads to poor sleep quality, making people feel more fatigued during the day and further impacting their overall health.

• Weight gain: Alcohol is calorie-dense and offers little nutritional value. Drinking excessively can lead to weight gain and contribute to obesity, particularly when combined with unhealthy eating habits. Weight gain increases the risk of conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and high cholesterol.