Many people enjoy drinking beer on hot days for its refreshing coolness. However, this beverage can be detrimental to health, particularly liver function.

Beer contains alcohol, or ethanol, along with water (80-90%), barley, hops, yeast, and flavor additives. Upon consumption, alcohol is first metabolized into acetaldehyde, a potent oxidizing agent. The liver then uses the enzyme ALDH2 to convert acetaldehyde into a less toxic form for elimination.

The liver can only process approximately 10 g of alcohol per hour. Excessive beer consumption overwhelms the liver, forcing it to work continuously to detoxify the body. Prolonged accumulation of excess acetaldehyde damages liver cells, impairs liver function, and increases the risk of fatty liver disease, hepatitis, cirrhosis, and even cancer.

About 90% of consumed alcohol is metabolized by the liver, with the remainder expelled through breath, urine, and sweat. Recommended guidelines suggest adults can tolerate a maximum of 40 g of alcohol per day. However, it is best to limit intake to under 20 g of alcohol per person per day, which is equivalent to about 300 ml of beer, or one can.

Regular beer consumption can increase the risk of liver diseases. Photo: Quoc An.

Liver damage often progresses silently, with few obvious symptoms in its early stages. Most symptoms appear only when some of the organ's functions have been severely compromised. At this point, individuals may experience constant fatigue, loss of appetite, jaundice, bruised skin, and frequent illness. People with underlying conditions such as diabetes, overweight, obesity, or metabolic disorders face a higher risk of developing liver disease.

The best beverage for the human body is plain water. To effectively cool down, everyone should drink enough water, approximately 1,5-2 liters per day. Additionally, appropriate electrolyte drinks can be consumed when outdoors in the sun, during intense physical activity, or when sweating heavily.

To enhance overall health, it is essential to limit beer consumption to reduce alcohol intake, allowing the liver time to rest and recover. Simultaneously, adopting a scientific nutritional regimen combined with a healthy lifestyle is crucial.

Daily meals should prioritize fresh foods, whole grains, and lean proteins from meat and fish. Limit dishes high in carbohydrates, unhealthy fats, processed foods, and excessive spices. Maintaining a healthy weight and regular physical activity helps boost immunity and reduce body fat, including liver fat. Adequate sleep and a relaxed state of mind also contribute to effective health protection.

Individuals who frequently consume alcohol should undergo regular health check-ups twice a year. A doctor can assess the extent of liver damage and provide personalized advice on diet, lifestyle, and appropriate treatment. Additionally, natural active ingredients such as s. marianum and wasabia kaponica can support detoxification, lower liver enzymes, and help reduce alcohol-induced damage.

Dr. Dao Thi Yen Thuy

Head of Nutrition and Dietetics Department

Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City