According to the NIAA, excessive intake of alcohol is normal in the lives of many people. Though it cannot be considered healthy, moderate intake and responsible drinking is the case of a lot of people who indulge. Nevertheless, overindulging in alcohol can certainly have a negative effect on the overall health and well-being. One of the different health issues that we decided to focus on today linked to alcohol abuse is dysbiosis or imbalance in the gut.
What Is the Gut Microbioma?
The gastrointestinal tract contains bacteria and microbes which form an ecosystem known as the gut microbioma. This ecosystem is pivotal for the immunity, digestion, mental health, and many more aspects. The maintenance of these bacteria can be differently affected by various factors. To illustrate, a healthy diet comprised of whole foods will trigger the flourishing of the gut microbioma. Anything less will result in an imbalance between the good and bad bacteria. Other contributing factors can be alcohol abuse, pollution, aging, excessive stress, intake of antibiotics, etc.
Changes in the Gut Microbiota Caused by Alcohol
There are both good and bad gut bacteria and in most situations, the good bacteria keep the bad ones in check. But, when the harmony is destroyed, the bad bacteria can start proliferating and become problematic. This can be anything from a specific disease to a poor digestion. What’s more, newest research points out that alcohol can also disrupt this balance and trigger leaky gut syndrome. This is a health problem characterized by an escaping of the bacteria to other body areas and this is similar to a domino effect and it causes inflammatory changes in the liver and other parts of the body.
The Connection between the Liver and Gut Bacteria
A study from 2015 indicates that abuse of alcohol can cause changes in the gut bacteria. A healthy gut is often decisive for a healthy liver because the gut bacteria control important metabolic functions.
Other Impact of Alcohol on the Human Body
- Affects the mood, coordination, and behavior
- It can impede the growth of brain cells
- It can lead to Alzheimer’s
- It can cause heart and liver issues
- It elevates the chance of specific types of cancer
- It has an adverse effect on the immunity and bones
How to Keep the Gut Microbiome Healthy
Without doubt, the best solution is to abstain from the intake of alcohol. This is because it can quickly become addictive and lead to various health complications. However, according to a study, red wine was able to elevate two good gut bacteria due to the polyphenols it contains. This may have a beneficial influence on the gut by reducing the endotoxins that trigger immune response.
You should also lead a healthy diet and be regularly physically active. You should eat more fermented foods that contain good bacteria and even opt for quality probiotic supplements.
