Alcohol is a legal substance that can be found in many forms, such as beer, wine, and liquor. It is often consumed socially and is considered a part of many cultures. While alcohol may seem harmless fun, it can negatively impact your body. These effects are what cause people to get medication-assisted treatment for alcohol Help. Below are various adverse health impacts of alcohol and how it can damage your body.
It’s a Central Nervous System Depressant
This means that it slows down your brain and your body’s response time. Alcohol consumption can make you feel drowsy and can impair your coordination. This increases your risk of accidents, whether operating machinery or driving a car. It can also lead to memory, learning, and decision-making skills problems.
It’s Linked to Many Types of Cancer
Alcohol is a known carcinogen, which means it can cause cancer. Drinking alcohol has been linked to an increased risk of mouth, throat, voice box, and esophageal cancer. It’s also been linked to breast cancer and colon cancer.
It Can Cause Liver Damage
Your liver is responsible for filtering toxins out of your body, so when you drink alcohol, it puts extra strain on this organ. It can lead to a build-up of liver fat, leading to alcoholic fatty liver disease. If this progresses, it can lead to cirrhosis or scarring of the liver, which can be fatal. Health records indicate liver cirrhosis is the 12th leading cause of death worldwide. With the rise in alcohol consumption globally, things are expected to worsen.
It Can Weaken Your Immune System
Drinking alcohol can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness. It is because alcohol interferes with the production of white blood cells responsible for fighting off infection. Weakened immunity can lead to frequent infections, such as the common cold or flu.
It Can Lead to Pancreatitis
Alcohol abuse is a leading cause of pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas. It can be extremely painful and lead to severe complications, such as bleeding, organ failure, and even death.
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction, seek help. Many resources are available to you, and treatment can make a difference. Alcohol addiction is a serious disease that should not be ignored. With the right help, you can overcome it and lead a happy, healthy life.
Hopefully, this article helps you understand the benefits of abstaining from alcohol use.