2017-03-22

Alcohol-related liver disease: (Elevated ALT and) damage can be reversed naturally

There are various different causes of liver disease; one of these is excessive alcohol drinking which causes ‘alcoholic liver disease’. Alcohol-related liver disease is currently the most prevalent cause of advances liver diseases in Europe. [1]

What does alcohol do to your liver?

It’s obvious that drinking too much alcohol can damage your liver but the exact reason behind is uncertain. However, scientists believe this is due to:

- Oxidative stress: When our liver breaks down alcohol, the chemical reaction can damage liver cells. This can lead to inflammation and scarring as the liver tries to repair itself.

- Toxins in gut bacteria: Alcohol can damage our intestine which lets toxins from our gut bacteria enter the liver. These toxins can also cause inflammation and scarring. [2]

Drinking increases your risk of developing liver disease

Research shows that the more alcohol you drink, the more likely you are to develop liver disease. [2] When you have an alcoholic drink, whether it is wine, beer or cocktail, your liver is responsible for processing this alcohol and detoxifying your blood. If you continue to drink excessively on a daily basis, your liver will have to work overtime continuously to break down the alcohol. This may eventually lead to damage in liver cells, accumulation of fat in your liver (fatty liver), liver inflammation, elevated ALT or more seriously, permanent scarring or cirrhosis or even liver cancer.

What can you do to reverse or prevent further damage?

Cease drinking – A healthy diet that includes avoiding alcohol is essential. At the early stages of alcohol-related disease, the damage is usually reversible once the drinkers stop consuming alcohol. [3]

Extra support to the liver – Extra liver support is needed for drinkers who have developed alcoholic hepatitis or inflammation in the liver. This extra support can help to normalize elevated ALT and enhance liver function.

Never mix alcohol and medication – If drinking cannot be avoided, you should limit the amount of intake and never take medication together with alcohol. The combination of some kinds of medicine and alcohol can lead to serious consequences. [2]

Reference:

Disclaimer:

* All research and clinical data should be used as reference purposes only, results may vary.

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