Did you know? Alcohol has an effect not just on your liver, but on every organ and cell in your body. With April being Alcohol Awareness Month, we connected with an expert to learn more about how alcohol impacts our bodies, recognizing early signs of misuse, resources for help, and more.
Dr. David Rzeszutko, Vice President of Medical and Clinical Operations, Priority Health, reminds us that when you drink, that alcohol is absorbed into your bloodstream and affects your brain, liver, heart and other vital systems.
“Even moderate drinking can disrupt your body’s ability to function optimally, increasing risks for issues like high blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms, heart attack, liver disease and cognitive impairment,” Dr. Rzeszutko said. “Over time, chronic alcohol use can weaken your immune system and damage organs, making you more susceptible to illness. Alcohol is classified as a cancer-causing agent. It is linked to increased risk of cancers of the mouth, throat and bowels. It’s important to recognize that even small amounts can have an effect, especially if consumed regularly.”
Dr. Rzeszutko notes that while health experts agree that there’s no completely safe level of alcohol due to cancer risks, guidelines suggest that adults who choose to drink should do so in moderation.
“For most healthy adults, that means up to one drink per day for women and up to two for men,” he said. “It’s important to remember that individual tolerance varies, and some people—like those who are pregnant or have certain medical conditions—should avoid alcohol altogether. Moderation is key, and being mindful of how much and how often you drink helps reduce health risks.”
But what does “moderation” really look like?
“Moderate drinking refers to a level of alcohol consumption that’s less likely to cause harm for most people,” Dr. Rzeszutko explained. “One drink is typically a 12-ounce beer, 5-ounce glass of wine, or 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits. Staying within these limits helps maintain your health and lowers your risk for developing alcohol-related problems. Remember, moderation may look different for everyone, so listen to your body and consult your doctor as needed.”
It's important to remember that consuming alcohol can also impact your sleep, mood, heart health and long-term mental wellness.
“Alcohol may initially help you relax, but it can disrupt your sleep patterns, leading to poor quality rest. It can also affect your mood, increasing anxiety or depression over time,” Dr. Rzeszutko shared. “Regular drinking raises the risk for high blood pressure and heart disease, and can negatively impact long-term mental wellness by altering brain chemistry. Even moderate use can interfere with emotional balance and cognitive function, so it’s important to be aware of these effects and limit intake accordingly.”
It's wise to also understand the early warning signs of alcohol misuse in order to recognize when you or a loved one may have a problem that needs addressing.
“Early warning signs include drinking more or more often than intended, feeling unable to cut back, or experiencing cravings for alcohol,” Dr. Rzeszutko said. You might notice changes in behavior, mood swings, neglecting responsibilities or drinking in risky situations. Other signs can include developing a tolerance, needing more alcohol to feel the same effects or having withdrawal symptoms when not drinking. Recognizing these patterns early makes it easier to address concerns before they escalate.”
If alcohol starts interfering with your daily life, relationships, or health, Dr. Rzeszutko says it’s a good indicator that help may be needed.
“Struggling to control your drinking, feeling guilty, or experiencing negative consequences like missed work or legal trouble are signs to reach out,” he said. “It’s also important to seek help if you’re worried about your drinking or others have expressed concern. Remember: asking for support is a sign of strength, not weakness, and early intervention can make a big difference.”
Thankfully, both local and national resources for help are available.
“Your physician is a good first step—he or she can connect you with counseling or treatment programs,” Dr. Rzeszutko recommended. “Organizations like Alcoholics Anonymous, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), and local community health centers offer support and information. Priority Health members can also access behavioral health services and guidance. Don’t hesitate to reach out—help is available and recovery is possible.”
Ultimately, Alcohol Awareness Month is a great opportunity to reflect on your drinking habits and make positive changes.
“Whether you’re considering cutting back or just want to learn more, remember that small steps can lead to big improvements in your health and well-being,” Dr. Rzeszutko said. “Support is out there, and you’re not alone in this journey. Let’s work together to raise awareness, reduce stigma and promote healthy choices for everyone.”
While you may have heard that moderate drinking—like a glass of red wine—can be good for your heart, Dr. Rzeszutko never recommends starting to drink alcohol just for health reasons.
“If you don’t drink, there’s no medical need to begin, and organizations like the American Heart Association don’t support drinking for health benefits,” he said. “Most studies only show a connection, not a cause-and-effect relationship. Often, people who drink moderately also have healthier lifestyles, which may explain the perceived benefits. So, if you don’t drink already, sticking with abstinence is usually your healthiest choice.”
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for West Michigan Woman.
