‘More than half’ of Brits have tried to curb drinking – 5 signs it’s harming your health

Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. “The production of ‘galanin’ that results from drinking alcohol may also increase the desire for fatty foods, which can compound these effects to lead to a gain in weight.” Numbness or tingling According to Healthline, over time, the effects of drinking too much alcohol may cause alcoholic neuropathy, which can also be referred to as “alcohol-related neuropathy” to help decrease the stigma surrounding the condition. “Alcohol can trigger heartburn or worsen symptoms in individuals who are already affected by the condition, partly as alcohol stimulates increased production of stomach acid, which subsequently can damage the stomach’s inner lining,” Mehta says. “The rising of muscle that separates the stomach and the oesophagus also relaxes when we drink alcohol, allowing this stomach acid to flow upwards from the stomach into the oesophagus, where the lining is not as well designed to withstand this acidity.” Malnutrition Malnutrition can happen, as regularly consuming too much alcohol – which interferes with hormones that regulate appetite – can lead the stomach and brain to incorrectly perceive a sense of fullness. “Excess alcohol use over many years can also cause liver damage, which may also present with weight loss.” Alcohol Change UK has free tools and resources, including the Try Dry® app, daily inspiring emails and an online community.