Drinking the right amount of alcohol is important for liver health, as some studies suggest small amounts may have benefits, but excessive drinking can cause serious harm.
The liver helps break down alcohol, but if you drink a lot, it struggles to do its job. This can lead to swelling, fat buildup, and even liver diseases.
Ready for a challenge? Click here to take our quiz and show off your knowledge!
For men, drinking up to two drinks a day is considered okay, while for women, it’s one drink a day. One drink means a 12-ounce beer, a 5-ounce glass of wine, or a 1.5-ounce shot of liquor. Drinking more than this regularly can put too much pressure on the liver, increasing the chances of fatty liver disease, liver infection, and liver failure.
Some people believe that drinking small amounts of hard drink can help with digestion and blood circulation. However, if not controlled, the risks are greater than the benefits. People who already have liver problems, a family history of liver disease, or take certain medicines should be extra careful, as alcohol can make their condition worse.
Staying hydrated and eating healthy food also affect how alcohol impacts the liver. Drinking plenty of water, eating foods rich in antioxidants, and having a balanced diet can reduce some of the effects of alcohol. But eating healthy does not undo the damage caused by heavy drinking.
Ready for a challenge? Click here to take our quiz and show off your knowledge!
The best way to take care of your liver is to drink responsibly. Taking breaks from alcohol and having alcohol-free days can help your liver recover. If you feel like you are drinking too often, it might be time to cut back.
The liver is a strong organ, but it needs time to heal. Reducing or avoiding alcohol can greatly improve liver health and make you feel better overall.