Sorting out the health effects of alcohol

When it comes to your beverage of choice, alcoholic beverages are unique. For millions, they are a regular part of the dining experience. They’re often an important component of social events, celebrations, and milestones; we toast people, events, and memories with alcohol. They play a key role in many religious traditions. And, of course, the alcoholic beverage industry is a major economic force, responsible for more than $220 billion in sales annually in the US.
And all of this is true despite the well-known and well-publicized risks of drinking too much alcohol.
The negative effects of alcohol
It should be a surprise to no one that drinking too much alcohol can be bad for you — of course, the definition of “too much” can vary. More on that in a moment.
Here are some of the more common negative health consequences of excessive alcohol consumption — and good reasons to moderate your intake of alcohol:

liver disease, including cirrhosis and life-threatening liver failure requiring a liver transplant
a higher risk of high blood pressure, heart failure, and dementia
a higher risk of certain cancers, including those of the digestive tract (including colon cancer), breast, and liver
a higher risk of injury, especially from drunk driving and falls — homicides and suicides are also often alcohol-related
lapses in judgement — For example, people who are drunk may engage in risky sexual behavior or use other drugs
a higher risk of depression, anxiety, and addiction whi...

Source: Harvard Health Blog - August 6, 2018 Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Robert H. Shmerling, MD Tags: Alcohol Health Source Type: blogs