Do you feel guilty about drinking excessively? Unfortunately, the negative effects of alcohol on the body may extend beyond a simple hangover. Overdrinking has been associated with severe organ damage and various ailments. One organ in particular bears the brunt of regular drinking, and that is your pancreas. Pancreases are the source of hormones and enzymes such as insulin that breakdown sugar into energy. But, when we consume alcohol, our pancreases stress out which can put us at risk of health problems.
Alcohol is a common substance in our society, with many people enjoying an alcoholic drink after work or during the weekends. Moderate alcohol consumption is not hazardous to the majority of people. But, excessive drinking could cause serious health issues including damage to your pancreas.
The pancreas which is an essential organ in digestion as well as metabolism, is an important part of our body. The pancreas produces enzymes which help to break down food particles in the small intestines and hormones that regulate blood sugar. The pancreas, when it is healthy, works effectively to maintain the body’s normal functioning. But, if alcohol is consumed in excess this can cause damage to the pancreas, which can lead to a variety of health problems.
The consumption of alcohol can trigger pancreatitis, one of the most serious conditions. It can be fatal and painful inflammation of the pancreas which can cause extreme abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and fever. Chronic pancreatitis may be caused by drinking excessively. This condition can lead to permanent damage to the pancreas as well as problems with digestion or nutrient absorption.
Alcohol consumption increases the risk of developing pancreatic cancer a deadly cancer of the pancreas. Alcohol consumption that is heavy has been proven to be a major risk factor in the development of pancreatic cancer. If you drink more than three glasses of alcohol per each day are at greater risk.
What happens to the pancreas? When you drink alcohol, it is metabolized primarily by the liver. When the liver gets overwhelmed by alcohol consumption that is excessive it is possible that a portion of the alcohol is converted to glucose through the pancreas. This can lead to an inflammation of the pancreas and damage to it, in addition to the formation of scar tissue. This may cause chronic pancreatitis, and increase the chance of pancreatic cancer.
It’s important to keep in mind that not all who drink often will get pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer. However, the likelihood of developing the conditions is considerably higher for those who consume large quantities of alcohol on a regular basis. It’s a good idea to know that reducing your alcohol intake can help reduce the risk of these serious health problems.
There are many actions you can take to ensure that you are safe from the harmful effects of alcohol on your pancreas. It’s crucial to limit your consumption of alcohol to moderate levels. Women are advised to limit their alcohol consumption to one drink per day, while men should not drink more than two. You should stay away from alcohol if you have had pancreatitis, or another issues with the pancreas.
Other actions you can take to safeguard your pancreas are eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise as well as avoiding smoking. The factors in your lifestyle that are mentioned above can play an important role in your pancreatic function.
Drinking excessively could cause serious issues in the pancreas. This can lead to pancreatitis and pancreatic carcinoma. It is recommended to limit your alcohol consumption to moderate levels if are concerned about alcohol’s effects on the pancreas. Additionally, you should maintain a healthy life style. Your pancreas can be protected by following this advice and decrease the risk of serious health problems.
For more information, click how does alcohol affect your pancreas
