Many people believe that drinking alcohol just once a week is harmless, but medical experts caution that even occasional consumption carries health risks. Dr Jayanta Thakuria, Director of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology at Yatharth Super Speciality Hospitals in Faridabad, explains that alcohol affects the body in multiple ways depending on individual factors, drinking patterns, and lifestyle choices like smoking. While consuming up to 60ml per week is generally considered safe for most people, binge drinking—even if limited to once weekly—can cause serious harm. The body's vital organs including the liver, kidneys, heart, and digestive system all experience stress from alcohol. Sleep quality suffers, metabolism gets disrupted, and certain medications can interact dangerously with alcohol. Vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, people with chronic conditions, those on specific medications, drivers, and individuals with digestive problems should avoid alcohol completely.
Effects on Major Body Systems and Overall Health
Weekly alcohol intake strains the liver, potentially leading to fatty liver or acute complications over time. The kidneys also suffer, especially through alcohol-induced dehydration that impairs their function. The cardiovascular system experiences elevated blood pressure and irregular heartbeats, risks that multiply when combined with smoking. Alcohol's high calorie content contributes to weight gain and abdominal bloating while disrupting metabolism. Sleep quality deteriorates despite initial drowsiness, causing fatigue and restlessness. The digestive system faces irritation, acid reflux, and in severe cases, gastrointestinal bleeding. Dangerous interactions occur with medications like sedatives and psychiatric drugs. Pregnant women, people with chronic illnesses, medication users, drivers, and those with digestive issues should abstain entirely from alcohol consumption.
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