Drinking alcohol, like smoking and using illegal drugs, can be addictive. Excessive drinking and alcohol intoxication have numerous negative effects on the body and one’s overall well-being.
How do you know if you’re drinking too much?
What does “too much” mean when it comes to alcohol consumption? The threshold varies for each individual depending on their tolerance, but general guidelines can serve as a reference. According to various health institutions, the maximum acceptable limit is:
- Beer: 1–2 bottles per day, but no more than 7 bottles per week.
- Hard drinks (e.g., gin, vodka, rum, brandy): Up to 4 shots (100 mL) per day, but no more than 14 shots per week.
While these limits provide a guideline, the principle of moderation is far more important.
Short-term Effects: Poor Decisions and Accidents
Alcohol impairs decision-making abilities, making those who are intoxicated more prone to risky behaviors. Some examples include:
- Drunk driving: A leading cause of accidents and deaths in the Philippines.
- Violence: Intoxicated individuals are more likely to get into fights, which can result in injuries or accidents.
- Risky sexual behavior: Alcohol lowers inhibitions, potentially leading to unsafe sexual practices.
Additionally, intoxication affects physical coordination, increasing the risk of falls, trips, or other accidents while under the influence.
Long-term Effects: Damage to the Liver and Other Organs
Prolonged excessive drinking has the most severe impact on the liver. Alcohol is a toxin, and the liver is the body’s main organ for detoxification. When alcohol consumption exceeds what the liver can process, the liver becomes inflamed and damaged. Over time, this can lead to cirrhosis, a condition where the liver deteriorates irreversibly, potentially resulting in kidney failure, coma, or death.
Beyond the liver, alcohol negatively impacts other parts of the body:
- Blood vessels: Excessive drinking can cause high blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease.
- Brain: Alcohol damages brain cells, impairing cognitive function.
- Pancreas: Chronic alcohol use can lead to inflammation of the pancreas.
- Sleep and sudden death: Excessive drinking is linked to poor sleep quality and, in some cases, sudden death (commonly referred to as bangungot).
Furthermore, alcohol is calorie-dense, contributing to weight gain. Pairing alcohol with unhealthy pulutan (snacks) exacerbates this issue.
Social Impact: Alcohol Can Ruin Lives
Alcohol addiction does not just harm the body—it also destroys lives. Addiction consumes time and energy that could otherwise be spent on education, work, or building meaningful relationships. Alcoholism often leads to financial difficulties, strained family ties, and reduced productivity.
Don’t Let Alcohol Control Your Life
If you or someone you know struggles with alcohol addiction, don’t hesitate to seek help. Consult a doctor or addiction specialist for support in overcoming this challenge and reclaiming control over your life.
