How does alcohol damage the liver?
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Alcohol is broken down in the liver into by-products that are highly toxic to the liver cells and cause inflammation. Over time, this will cause liver fibrosis, and ultimately lead to liver cirrhosis, which increases the risk of liver cancer. Other alcohol-related liver problems include fatty liver and alcoholic hepatitis.
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The adverse effects of alcohol extend beyond the liver. Alcohol impairs brain functions. It damages the heart, causing problems, such as arrhythmia, cardiomyopathy, high blood pressure, and stroke. It can lead to pancreatitis. It also weakens the immune system.
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Alcohol is a carcinogen. It increases the risk of head and neck cancers, oesophagal cancer, liver cancer, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer.
Asian Flush Syndrome: The Health Risks Behind Blushing After Drinking Alcohol
Blushing after drinking alcohol is not a sign of good blood circulation but rather a result of the body's inability to effectively metabolize alcohol. This phenomenon is known as Asian Flush Syndrome and is particularly common among East Asian populations, such as those in China, Japan, and Korea.
The metabolism of alcohol in the body requires the involvement of two enzymes:
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Alcohol Dehydrogenase (ADH): Converts alcohol into acetaldehyde, a toxic metabolic byproduct.
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Aldehyde Dehydrogenase (ALDH): Further breaks down acetaldehyde into harmless compounds.
However, due to genetic differences, approximately 80% of East Asians carry a hyperactive ADH enzyme, which converts alcohol into acetaldehyde 100 times faster than in other populations. At the same time, their ALDH2 enzyme (a variant of aldehyde dehydrogenase) has lower activity, making it less effective at breaking down acetaldehyde. This leads to an accumulation of acetaldehyde in the body.
The buildup of acetaldehyde causes blood vessels to dilate, resulting in facial flushing. Beyond blushing, acetaldehyde is more toxic than alcohol itself and is a known carcinogen.
Dr. Tan Ek Khoon, Associate Consultant at the Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary and Transplant Surgery at Singapore General Hospital (SGH) and a member of the SingHealth Group, explains: "Acetaldehyde can cause inflammation in the upper digestive tract, damage DNA, and increase the risk of gastrointestinal diseases, including esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, and peptic ulcers."
Research shows that individuals with Asian Flush Syndrome who consume two beers daily have a 10 times higher risk of developing esophageal cancer compared to those with normal ALDH2 function.
Drinking Without Harm: Science-Backed Tips to Reduce Hangover Damage
If you occasionally enjoy a drink with friends and family, here are three scientifically proven tips to help minimize the harm alcohol causes to your liver and overall health.
1. Eat Carbohydrate-Rich Foods Before Drinking to Slow Alcohol Absorption
Before drinking, consuming carbohydrate-rich foods such as nuts, bread, noodles, or rice can help slow the absorption of alcohol into the body. These foods delay alcohol’s entry into the small intestine, reducing its absorption rate. Additionally, having a full stomach helps protect the stomach lining and minimizes irritation caused by alcohol.
2. Raisin Tree Fruit: A Traditional and Scientifically Proven Hangover Remedy
Hovenia dulcis, also known as the Oriental Raisin Tree or “Longevity Fruit,” is widely used in traditional Chinese and Korean medicine. It has long been utilized for treating alcohol intoxication and aiding recovery from excessive drinking.
Scientific studies have repeatedly confirmed its effectiveness. In animal experiments, taking Hovenia dulcis extract 30 minutes before alcohol consumption significantly enhanced the activity of two key enzymes—ADH and ALDH—responsible for breaking down and metabolizing alcohol. The results showed a noticeable reduction in alcohol and acetaldehyde levels in the blood.
Similar effects have been observed in human studies. Compared to the control group, individuals who consumed Hovenia dulcis extract had significantly lower alcohol and metabolite levels in their saliva and breath. As a result, reduced alcohol concentration led to a substantial decrease in hangover symptoms.
Additionally, the polysaccharides and powerful antioxidants in Hovenia dulcis help protect against acute alcohol-induced liver damage. One of its key phytochemicals, dihydromyricetin (DHM), has been shown to effectively alleviate symptoms of acute alcohol intoxication.
3. American Ginseng: Inhibiting Liver Cancer Cell Growth and Promoting Liver Regeneration
Ginsenosides, the active compounds in ginseng, have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. They help inhibit the growth of liver cancer cells, promote liver regeneration, and prevent liver damage caused by ischemia (restricted blood supply) or hypoxia (oxygen deprivation).