Alcohol Effects: Many people believe that moderate or occasional drinking is harmless. A drink on weekends or once a month is often seen as safe. But according to Mumbai orthopaedic surgeon and sports doctor Manan Vora, even occasional alcohol consumption can have hidden effects on your body that most people overlook.
In a video shared on Instagram, Dr Vora breaks down how alcohol impacts the liver, metabolism, sleep and overall health – even if you think you’re drinking responsibly. His explanation is a wake-up call for anyone who believes moderation is risk-free.
Alcohol Effects On Liver, Sleep And Metabolism
Dr Vora shared, “Bro, I only drink occasionally. But how occasional is occasional? Once a month? Your body manages. Once a week? Liver starts complaining. 3–5 times a week? Hormones go haywire. Daily? You’re gambling with your life. Alcohol doesn’t just hit your head. It hits your sleep, gut, metabolism, and future.”
He explained the progressive effects in simple terms:
- Once a month – The liver handles the load, but metabolism is slightly affected. Sleep may be mildly disturbed.
- Once a week – Liver stress begins. Sleep quality drops, and subtle dehydration can occur.
- 3–5 times a week – Cortisol spikes, insulin resistance develops, metabolism slows and sleep is seriously disturbed.
- Daily drinking – Risks escalate to liver damage, potential liver failure, metabolic breakdown, and a higher risk of cancer.
Dr Vora emphasises that even “occasional” drinking can set off a chain reaction in the body, impacting hormones, digestion, and overall health over time.
Why They Are Often Underestimated
Many adults think that drinking socially or occasionally is harmless. However, the reality is different:
- Sleep disruption – Alcohol may help you fall asleep initially, but it reduces restorative sleep cycles.
- Hormonal imbalance – Drinking frequently disrupts cortisol and insulin, affecting weight, mood and energy.
- Metabolic slowdown – Regular alcohol intake slows metabolism, making it harder to process fats and sugars.
- Long-term risks – Prolonged stress on the liver increases the likelihood of liver disease, failure and even cancer.
Dr Vora concludes by urging viewers to reconsider their drinking habits. He says, “Send this to someone who thinks drinking alcohol in moderation is okay.”
Even occasional alcohol can quietly harm your body. Understanding alcohol effects early can help you make better choices and protect your liver, sleep, and long-term health.
