What Alcohol Does to Your Body
Hangover: A hangover is a group of unpleasant symptoms that can occur after drinking too much alcohol. Symptoms of a hangover can include headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and dizziness.
Alcohol poisoning: Alcohol poisoning is a serious medical condition that can occur when someone drinks too much alcohol too quickly. Symptoms of alcohol poisoning can include confusion, vomiting, seizures, and even death.
Long-term effects
Liver damage: Alcohol is metabolized by the liver. Heavy alcohol consumption can damage the liver, leading to a variety of problems, including cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure.
Heart disease: Alcohol can raise blood pressure, increase triglycerides, and damage the heart muscle. Heavy alcohol consumption can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and heart failure.
Cancer: Alcohol is a carcinogen, which means it can cause cancer. Heavy alcohol consumption increases the risk of cancer of the mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, breast, and colon.
Mental health problems: Alcohol can worsen symptoms of anxiety and depression. It can also lead to problems with memory and learning.
Alcohol dependence: Alcohol dependence is a serious addiction that can be difficult to overcome. People with alcohol dependence may experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop drinking, and they may have difficulty controlling their drinking habits.
Tips for drinking responsibly
Drink in moderation: The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that women have no more than one alcoholic drink per day and men have no more than two.
Avoid binge drinking: Binge drinking is defined as having four or more drinks for women and five or more drinks for men within a two-hour period.
Don’t drink and drive: Alcohol impairs judgment and coordination, which can increase the risk of accidents.
Eat before and while you drink: Eating food slows down the absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream.
Alternate alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic drinks: This will help you to stay hydrated and reduce your overall alcohol consumption.
Be aware of your limits: Everyone has different limits for how much alcohol they can consume safely. Pay attention to how you feel when you drink and don’t push yourself past your limits.
If you are concerned about your alcohol consumption, talk to your doctor. They can help you to assess your risk for alcohol problems and develop a plan to reduce your drinking.