Drinking Alcohol Once a Week: Safe Habit or Hidden Risk?
* Is Once-a-Week Drinking Really Safe?
Many people believe drinking alcohol once a week is harmless.
Experts say the impact depends on age, overall health, lifestyle, and quantity consumed.
Even occasional drinking affects the body, especially if portions are large.
“Moderate” drinking reduces risk but does not eliminate it.
* What Experts Suggest
According to Dr. deepak Sahota from pooja Super Speciality Clinic, Ambala:
Around 60 ml per week may be relatively safe for healthy adults.
Risks increase if intake exceeds moderate levels.
Individual tolerance and medical history matter greatly.
* Hidden Calorie Load
Alcohol adds significant calories to your daily intake.
Two beers with snacks can total nearly 1200 calories.
If your daily limit is around 1600 calories, one drinking session can undo a week of dietary control.
Weight gain and metabolic issues may follow regular weekly indulgence.
* Dangers of Binge Drinking
Binge drinking means consuming large amounts in a short time.
It can cause sudden liver stress and heart complications.
Severe cases may lead to alcohol poisoning or life-threatening events.
Even once-a-week binge patterns disrupt the body’s balance.
* Effects on Liver and Kidneys
The liver processes alcohol and bears the maximum impact.
Weekly drinking can gradually lead to fatty liver disease.
Alcohol dehydrates the body, stressing kidney function.
Low water intake worsens the damage.
* Impact on heart Health
Alcohol may raise blood pressure.
It can cause irregular heart rhythms.
Combining alcohol with smoking increases heart disease risk significantly.
* Sleep and Mental Health
Alcohol may help you fall asleep quickly.
However, it disrupts deep and restful sleep cycles.
Poor sleep can lead to fatigue, irritability, and reducedfocus.
* Digestive System Issues
Excess drinking increases acidity and heartburn.
It may cause gastric irritation or intestinal inflammation.
Severe cases can result in internal bleeding.
* Who Should Avoid Alcohol Completely?
Pregnant women.
Individuals with liver, heart, or mental health conditions.
People taking certain medications.
Drivers and those with acid reflux problems.