Every year in France, nearly 15,000 people die from diseases linked to long-term excessive alcohol consumption. This abuse primarily damages the liver, a vital organ responsible for filtering, sorting, and neutralizing the body's daily waste.
In this article, you'll explore the intricate relationship between the liver and alcohol: What role does the liver play in processing alcohol? How does alcohol affect the liver? How long does it take for this organ to regenerate? And much more...
The Liver’s Role in Processing Alcohol
Located in the upper right part of the abdomen, the liver plays a crucial role in managing alcohol within the body. Its primary function includes breaking down ethanol found in alcoholic beverages.
The gastrointestinal system (liver, digestive lining, intestines, digestive tract, stomach, etc.) eliminates over 80% of ingested alcohol. The remaining percentages are expelled through urine (via the kidneys) and exhaled air (via the lungs). The speed at which alcohol is absorbed and acts on the human body depends on the presence of food or medication in the system.
Once alcohol is consumed, a significant amount of ethanol reaches the liver, where it is transformed into acetaldehyde by three enzymes: alcohol dehydrogenase, cytochrome P450, and catalase.
Acetaldehyde is then broken down by another enzyme, acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, into acetate, which is further transformed into acetyl-CoA reductase.
Through a series of enzymatic transformations, acetyl-CoA reductase leads to the synthesis and accumulation of fatty acids in the liver. This abnormal buildup of fatty deposits can, if frequent, result in liver-related health issues.
The Effects of Alcohol on the Liver
Excessive and frequent alcohol consumption damages the liver, causing negative effects on this vital organ and leaving behind potentially irreversible damage.
As alcohol continues to attack the liver, its ability to perform essential daily functions becomes increasingly impaired. The abdominal organ can become heavy, painful, and tender. Additional symptoms, such as loss of appetite, blood in the stool, and severe fatigue, may also occur when the liver reaches its breaking point.
These negative effects can be early indicators of serious liver complications, such as:
- Fatty liver disease
- Liver cirrhosis
- Acute alcoholic hepatitis
- Cancers (liver, pancreas, etc.)
- Fibrosis
- And more
If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for an accurate assessment of your condition.
Alcohol doesn’t just harm the liver; it affects the entire body, including the joints.
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How Long Does It Take for the Liver to Regenerate?
The liver is the only organ in the human body with a remarkable regenerative ability. This impressive capability allows it to regrow or resume proper function even after severe damage or partial removal.
To give your liver the best chance to recover, it is essential to first completely avoid alcohol consumption for an extended period. It’s important to understand that the regeneration process depends on various factors:
- The liver's current condition
- The severity of any existing damage
- The duration and extent of past alcohol consumption
- Potential presence of liver diseases
There is no fixed timeframe for liver regeneration, as this process varies significantly from person to person. Factors such as genetics, lifestyle habits, and the duration and intensity of past consumption all play a role.
On average, it takes about 2 weeks for the liver to initiate its regeneration process. Within 4 to 6 weeks, the liver may fully recover, depending on the individual circumstances outlined above.
Reducing or completely stopping alcohol consumption doesn’t just benefit the liver. Over time, it contributes to improved mental and physical health by offering benefits such as:
- Better, more restorative sleep
- Healthier skin
- More stable weight
- Positive mental health improvements
- Lower blood pressure
- Reduced risk of stroke or heart attack
- Fewer memory-related issues
- And more
Are there natural ways to support liver health?
Although the liver is strong, resilient, and constantly active, it may sometimes require assistance. In such cases, opting for a natural solution that supports this vital organ in its daily functions, helps it regenerate, or even detoxify, is highly recommended.
Among the natural and readily available solutions, milk thistle stands out. This herb, renowned for its many benefits, is a powerful ally for the liver. It not only aids in regeneration but also promotes detoxification by stimulating bile production and eliminating toxins.
The Laboratories Solage utilize this plant in a flagship product from their range. This natural remedy, named Solmarie, serves as an active liver support over time. For quick and efficient absorption, Solage incorporates Milk Thistle Phytosome, which is five times more effective than traditional extracts due to its patented phytosome process.
Continuing the focus on liver support, glutathione proves to be a top-tier detoxifying agent. Naturally occurring in the human body, this compound significantly assists in toxin elimination (e.g., heavy metals) and enhances the comprehensive detoxification of organs. To ensure better action and absorption, Laboratories Solage have developed a Liposomal Glutathione Liquid.
If you’re interested in learning more about digestion and liver health (including gallstones, liver-friendly foods, and more), feel free to explore the many articles available on the Solage blog.
References :
- Paquot N - Le métabolisme de l’alcool - Rev Med Liege 2019 ; 74 : 12019.
- Rui Guo and Jun Ren - Alcohol and Acetaldehyde in Public Health : From Marvel to Menace - Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2010 Apr; 7(4): 1285–1301.
- Par Whitney Jackson - Hépatopathie alcoolique - (Maladie hépatique alcoolique ; Hépatopathie associée à la consommation d’alcool) - University of Colorado School of Medicine - 2021
- Varenka J. Barbero-Becerra, Jorge A. López-Velázquez, Vicente Sánchez-Valle, Misael Uribe, Nahum Méndez-Sánchez - Alcohol effects on liver diseases: good or bad buddy ? - Liver Research Unit, Medica Sur Clinic & Foundation, Mexico City, Mexico - Vol. 11. Issue 6 ; pages 944-948 (November - December 2012)
- George K. Michalopoulos & Bharat Bhushan - Liver regeneration : biological and pathological mechanisms and implications - Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology - volume 18, pages 40–55 (2021)
- George K. Michalopoulos - Liver Regeneration - J Cell Physiol - 2007 Nov ; 213(2): 286–300.