3 min readNew DelhiDec 11, 2024 09:37 AM IST
First published on: Dec 10, 2024 at 02:00 PM IST
Sometimes, what seems like a harmless indulgence can have a profound impact. Choices we make in the name of relaxation or celebration may leave lasting impressions on our health, often going unnoticed until it’s too late. The silent yet significant role of alcohol drinking is now sparking renewed attention, urging us to rethink its influence on our well-being.
Dr Cyriac Abby Philips, popularly known as “The Liver Doc,” recently went viral for a post comparing the livers of two individuals—a regular weekend drinker and his wife, a healthy liver donor. The image, showing the stark difference between the drinker’s spotted, dark liver and the donor’s pink, healthy liver, sent shockwaves across the internet, reigniting discussions about the dangers of alcohol consumption.
Dr Philips’ post explained that even seemingly moderate alcohol consumption can severely damage the liver over time. He wrote, “Hello. Just wanted to show the inside of the liver of a 32-year-old, ‘weekends only’ alcohol drinking man, and the healthy donor liver of his wife that he received, that will help him survive to see their little daughter grow up.”
Weekend drinking may appear harmless, but it can trigger liver damage due to the cumulative stress on the organ over time (Source: X/Liverdoc)
Dr Srinivas Bojanapu, a liver transplant surgeon at Kauvery Hospitals, explains that alcohol, even in moderate amounts, acts as a toxin to the liver. The organ metabolises alcohol, producing carcinogenic byproducts and depleting resources needed for other bodily functions. The effects of alcohol vary depending on several factors, including:
- Rate of Consumption: The speed at which alcohol is consumed influences its concentration in the bloodstream (Blood Alcohol Concentration or BAC).
- Genetic Predisposition: Variations in enzymes like alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH2) affect alcohol metabolism.
- Lifestyle Factors: Diet, age, smoking, and even the time of day can impact alcohol’s effect on the body.
Weekend drinking may appear harmless, but it can trigger liver damage due to the cumulative stress on the organ over time.
While it is possible for severe liver damage to result from weekend drinking, assessing alcohol consumption retrospectively is challenging, said Dr Bojanapu. People often underestimate or misreport their drinking habits. Factors like individual susceptibility, genetic variations, and coexisting health conditions also play a role in determining the extent of liver damage.
Should you avoid alcohol altogether?
The consensus among medical professionals is clear: the best way to protect your liver is to avoid alcohol altogether. While occasional consumption may not harm everyone equally, the unpredictability of how alcohol affects different individuals makes abstinence the safest option. Moreover, staying away from alcohol also reduces the risk of other severe health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders.
If you suspect liver damage or have concerns about your drinking habits, consult a healthcare provider for guidance and support.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Weekend drinking may appear harmless, but it can trigger liver damage due to the cumulative stress on the organ over time.(Photo: Pexels) 
Weekend drinking may appear harmless, but it can trigger liver damage due to the cumulative stress on the organ over time (Source: X/Liverdoc)
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