What is a high-functioning alcoholic and is it bad?

Written by Brandon Okey. Mina Draskovic, B.Psy., reviewed this content for accuracy.

High-functioning alcoholics seem to have it all together—holding down jobs and maintaining relationships while secretly battling alcohol addiction. But just because they’re functioning doesn’t mean they’re not doing serious damage to their health, relationships, and future.

Their outward success makes it easy to deny or overlook the problem, both for them and the people around them. That’s why high-functioning alcoholism demands a comprehensive treatment approach for lasting recovery. We provide specialized alcohol rehab programs that address the unique challenges faced by high-functioning alcoholics.

Understanding high-functioning alcoholism

High-functioning alcoholics struggle with alcohol addiction but manage to maintain a facade of normalcy in their professional and social lives. Unlike the stereotypical image of an alcoholic—blackouts, rages, DUIs, and a wake of destruction—these people often hold down good jobs, have families, and seem successful on the surface.

Beneath this veneer, they’re battling a serious drinking problem that affects their health, relationships, and overall well-being.

The main characteristics of a high-functioning alcoholic:

They often excel at work, maintaining high-profile jobs and even earning promotions, all while hiding their addiction.
They’ll insist they don’t have a problem and can quit anytime, despite evidence to the contrary.
Their life is a balancing act between a polished public image and private struggles with alcohol dependency.
High-functioning alcoholics can drink large amounts without appearing drunk because they’ve built up a high tolerance over time.
Alcohol becomes central to their routine. They have specific drinking times from which they rarely deviate.
When they can’t drink, they become anxious and irritable. Alcohol becomes their go-to solution for dealing with stress, celebrations, or any strong emotion.
They become skilled at hiding bottles, lying about their whereabouts, and concealing the true extent of their drinking.
Despite their outward control, high-functioning alcoholics frequently experience alcohol-induced blackouts or memory lapses.
Despite their efforts, they find it impossible to stop drinking completely without professional support.

Many people don’t realize their friend or family member is a high-functioning alcoholic until cracks start to show. It often takes a major incident or a series of slip-ups for loved ones to recognize the hidden problem.

How to recognize a high-functioning alcoholic

High-functioning alcoholics are masters of disguise, hiding their addiction behind a facade of success. But even the most skilled pretenders can’t completely mask the physical and behavioral signs of chronic alcohol abuse.

Physical symptoms of a high-functioning alcoholic

High-functioning alcoholics often have some or all of the following physical symptoms:

Persistent digestive issues or stomach pain
Frequent headaches or migraines
Redness or puffiness in the face
Chronic fatigue or weakness
Rapid weight fluctuations
Deteriorating dental health
Frequent illnesses because of a weakened immune system
Sleep disturbances or insomnia
Sweating even in cool environments
Tremors or shaky hands
High blood pressure
Flushed or ruddy complexion
Dry or brittle hair and nails

Behaviors of a high-functioning alcoholic

Behavior is a telltale sign of a high-functioning alcoholic. The shifts in behavior might be subtle at first, easily dismissed or explained away. But over time, they become more pronounced and harder to ignore.

Increased tolerance: they need more alcohol to achieve the same effect
Drinking alone or in secret, often after work or social events
Making subtle excuses for drinking or downplaying its role in their life
Becoming defensive when close ones express concern about their drinking
Maintaining appearance but showing signs of fatigue or hangover
Cleverly hiding alcohol in inconspicuous places
Occasionally missing minor deadlines but still meeting major obligations
Taking calculated risks while maintaining an appearance of control
Experiencing occasional memory lapses but hiding them well
Creating plausible explanations for alcohol-related behavior
Drinking at inappropriate times but managing to hide the effects
Experiencing mild withdrawal symptoms but attributing them to stress or illness

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can be severe and potentially life-threatening. For high-functioning alcoholics, these symptoms might catch them off guard, especially since they’ve often maintained the illusion of control over their drinking. The danger is amplified because they may attempt to manage withdrawal on their own, risking serious complications.

If you recognize you need help managing your drinking, Ardu Recovery Center is here to support you. Our alcohol detox services provide a safe, comfortable environment for you to begin your recovery journey. We’re equipped to help functional alcoholics navigate the often unexpected and potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms and transition to a healthier, alcohol-free life.

What percentage of alcoholics are high-functioning?

A groundbreaking study by Dr. Moss and his team at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) sheds light on the diverse world of alcohol dependence. They dug into data from nearly 1,500 people diagnosed with alcoholism, looking at everything from family history to when they started drinking regularly. They found that there isn’t just one type of alcoholic, but several distinct groups. A significant portion of them are high-functioning alcoholics.

Let’s break down the types of alcoholics and how common they are:

Young adult alcoholics make up the largest group, at 31.5% of all alcoholics. These are typically younger people who don’t usually have other substance use disorders (SUDs) or mental health issues. They rarely come from families with a history of alcoholism and almost never reach out for help with their drinking.
The young antisocial group accounts for 21% of alcoholics. Usually in their mid-twenties, they started drinking early and quickly developed problems. More than half have alcoholism in their families, and about half are diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder. They often battle depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. Most use other drugs too. About a third of this group seeks help.
Functional alcoholics, often called high-functioning alcoholics, make up 19.5% of the alcoholic population. They’re typically middle-aged, well-educated, and maintain stable jobs and families. About a third have a family history of alcoholism while a quarter have experienced depression.
The intermediate familial group represents 19% of alcoholics. These are middle-aged drinkers, and half of them come from families with a strong history of alcoholism. Nearly half have dealt with depression, and 20% have bipolar disorder. Most of them smoke and some use other drugs. Only a quarter of this group ever seeks treatment.
Chronic severe alcoholics are the smallest but most problematic group, making up 9% of all alcoholics. These are the most severe cases, typically middle-aged individuals who started drinking early in life. They have high rates of antisocial behavior and other mental health issues. Almost 80% have a family history of alcoholism. They struggle the most with other psychiatric and substance abuse problems. Two-thirds of this group seeks help, making them the most common type you’d see in treatment programs.

A 2014 Harvard Health study suggests that nearly one-third of American adults drink excessively, but only 10% of them have alcohol use disorder (AUD). This implies that many excessive drinkers may be functioning without meeting the clinical criteria for alcoholism.

Read our in-depth article about alcohol abuse statistics in the United States, and you can find out how many millions of Americans struggle with heavy drinking and alcohol use disorder.

The dangers of high-functioning alcoholism

The insidious nature of high-functioning alcoholism allows it to progress undetected for years, sometimes decades, causing gradual but significant damage to physical health, mental well-being, and personal relationships.

Let’s pull back the curtain on the hidden health risks these individuals face.

High-functioning alcoholics quietly destroy their livers.
They strain their hearts, risking serious cardiovascular problems.
Their brains shrink, leading to cognitive decline.
Their immune systems weaken, leaving them vulnerable to illness.
They develop painful and dangerous digestive issues.
Depression and anxiety become constant companions.
Restless nights leave them exhausted and less productive.
Their bodies struggle to absorb essential nutrients.
They face a higher risk of developing several types of cancer.

One: liver disease

High-functioning alcoholics often experience silent liver damage. Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to fatty liver disease, where excess fat accumulates in liver cells. Continued alcohol consumption use will lead to increased inflammation that will inevitably cause permanent damage.

The liver sustains the greatest degree of tissue injury by heavy drinking because it is the primary site of ethanol metabolism. Chronic and excessive alcohol consumption produces a wide spectrum of hepatic lesions, the most characteristic of which are steatosis, hepatitis, and fibrosis/cirrhosis. (Osna, et. al.)

Despite the severe damage alcohol can inflict on the liver, this resilient organ has a remarkable ability to regenerate. Your liver will heal when you stop drinking, but you need to make that important decision as soon as possible.

Two: cardiovascular problems

Alcohol abuse takes a toll on the heart and blood vessels. Binge drinking can lead to hypertension (high blood pressure), increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Prolonged heavy drinking can also weaken the heart muscle, leading to cardiomyopathy, and contribute to irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias).

A 2022 study explains the detrimental cardiovascular effects of chronic alcohol abuse and binge drinking patterns. The results show that chronic alcohol abuse is linked to sudden cardiac death and heart muscle damage. Overall, regular heavy drinkers have a higher risk of dying from heart-related issues.

Three: neurological damage

Despite maintaining professional and social facades, high-functioning alcoholics may experience gradual brain damage. Alcohol can lead to brain shrinkage, impacting areas responsible for memory, learning, and cognitive function. This can result in difficulties with problem-solving, decision-making, and memory retention, even if not immediately apparent to others.

According to Meda, et. al., “individuals with heavier drinking patterns had a larger rate hippo-parahippocampal volume decline.” Excessive drinking shrinks the brain’s memory center, leading to more blackouts and worse memory over time.

Four: weakened immune system

Chronic alcohol consumption suppresses the immune system, making functional alcoholics more susceptible to infections and illnesses. A 2015 study found an “association between excessive alcohol consumption and adverse immune-related health effects.” This increased vulnerability can lead to more frequent colds, flu, and other infections, as well as slower recovery times.

Even moderate alcohol consumption can exert detrimental effects on your immune system and health in the long run. The smartest thing you can do is to steer clear of the bottle altogether. That’s not always easy, especially after years of heavy drinking, but Ardu will be there by your side, every step of the way.

If you’re struggling to remain sober, seek the support of our qualified rehab facility.

Five: gastrointestinal issues

Alcohol irritates the digestive system. High-functioning alcoholics may develop gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), peptic ulcers, and pancreatitis. Chronic alcohol use can also interfere with nutrient absorption, leading to malnutrition despite adequate food intake.

Bishehsari, et. al. shed light on the havoc alcohol wreaks on your gut and found that booze disrupts the beneficial bacteria in your stomach lining, making your intestines more permeable. This triggers widespread inflammation, causing problems throughout your entire body, not just your digestive system.

Six: mental health deterioration

While high-functioning alcoholics may seem to have their lives together, they’re at increased risk for mental health issues. Alcohol abuse can exacerbate or trigger depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other minor and major mental disorders. The cycle of drinking to cope with stress or emotions can worsen these mental health challenges over time.

Ardu offers specialized dual diagnosis treatment to tackle these intertwined challenges. Our comprehensive approach addresses both alcohol addiction and underlying mental health issues, providing a path to holistic recovery and lasting well-being.

Seven: sleep disorders

Although alcohol might seem to help with falling asleep, it significantly disrupts sleep patterns. Roehrs and Roth found that alcohol’s sedative effects cause initial drowsiness by acting as a depressant, slowing brain activity and causing muscles to relax. Despite these seemingly soothing effects, high-functioning alcoholics often experience poor sleep quality, insomnia, and sleep apnea. This chronic sleep deprivation leads to daytime fatigue, decreased productivity, and mood disturbances, potentially impacting their work and relationships.

Eight: nutritional deficiencies

Chronic alcohol consumption interferes with the body’s ability to absorb and utilize essential nutrients. High-functioning alcoholics may develop deficiencies in vitamins and minerals such as thiamine, folate, and magnesium. Alcohol-induced nutritional deficiencies can have detrimental effects on your health and cause a range of health problems, such as anemia, weakened bones, and neurological issues. To make matters worse, many of these may not be immediately apparent but can have long-term consequences.

Nine: increased cancer risk

High-functioning alcoholics face elevated risks of certain cancers. Alcohol is a known carcinogen, affecting the liver, breast, mouth, throat, and esophagus. The World Health Organization warns that “no level of alcohol consumption is safe for our health.” They maintain that “alcohol is a toxic, psychoactive, and dependence-producing substance and has been classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer decades ago – this is the highest risk group…”

When your liver breaks down alcohol, it first creates acetaldehyde, a toxic and cancer-causing substance. This harmful compound inflames and damages cells in your throat and digestive system, leading to abnormal cell growth and injury. Seitz, et. al. suggest that the risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed over time, regardless of the person’s ability to function in daily life.

Ardu Recovery Center is committed to helping you break free from alcohol dependence. Our comprehensive approach includes medically supervised detox, counseling, group support, and holistic therapies that guide you toward lasting recovery and overall well-being.

Contact Ardu today and take your life back into your hands.

Why is high-functioning alcoholism difficult to treat?

High-functioning alcoholism presents a complex challenge to treat. Unlike the stereotypical image of alcoholism, high-functioning alcoholics often excel in their careers, maintain relationships, and fulfill social obligations, all while consuming alcohol at harmful levels.

High-functioning alcoholics are particularly challenging to treat for several reasons:

Denial and rationalization. Functional alcoholics often refuse to acknowledge their problems. They find ways to rationalize their drinking habits. They might point to their career achievements, stable relationships, or financial security as evidence that their alcohol consumption isn’t problematic. This mindset creates a significant barrier to entering treatment and accepting help.
Lack of apparent consequences. Unlike those with more visible forms of alcoholism, high-functioning alcoholics often don’t experience immediate, severe consequences such as job loss, financial ruin, or legal troubles. This absence of obvious negative impacts reinforces their belief that their drinking is under control. They may not see the subtle ways alcohol is affecting their health, relationships, or work performance. Without these clear wake-up calls, they’re less likely to feel motivated to change their behavior or seek treatment.
Social and professional enablement. High-functioning alcoholics often operate in environments where heavy drinking is normalized or even encouraged. Alcohol is a central part of networking, deal-making, and socializing. This cultural acceptance of drinking can make it difficult for people to recognize when their consumption has crossed into problematic territory.
Fear of stigma and loss of status. For many high-functioning alcoholics, their identity is closely tied to their success and social standing. The prospect of admitting to an alcohol problem and seeking treatment can be terrifying, and they fear it might jeopardize their career, reputation, or relationships. They may worry about being seen as weak or unreliable if their struggles with alcohol become known. This fear of stigma and potential loss of status can be a powerful deterrent to seeking help.
Difficulty in lifestyle adjustment. High-functioning alcoholics often have deeply ingrained habits and routines that revolve around alcohol. Drinking may be intertwined with their stress management, social life, and work culture. They may struggle to envision a life without alcohol, particularly in social and professional settings where they’ve relied on it for confidence or relaxation. The comprehensive lifestyle changes required for recovery can seem overwhelming, leading to resistance to treatment.

The treatment of high-functioning alcoholism demands a sophisticated, balanced approach. It requires addressing the addiction while preserving the individual’s functional aspects. This challenge calls for expert knowledge of the many psychological, social, and physical factors that contribute to this complex condition.

Ardu Recovery Center offers expert, comprehensive care tailored to these unique challenges.

Beat high-functioning alcoholism with our team of experts

“…I cannot speak highly enough of Ardu Recovery Center. They have not only helped me overcome addiction but have equipped me with the tools and mindset to maintain a sober and fulfilling life. If you or a loved one are seeking the best substance abuse rehab facility in the state, look no further than Ardu Recovery Center. They have truly set the standard for excellence in care and support. They are truly like family to me…”

—Gavin

 5/5

We recognize the complex nature of high-functioning alcoholism and offer a sophisticated, multifaceted approach to treatment. Our program provides comprehensive care that respects the delicate balance between addressing the underlying addiction and preserving the functional aspects of our client’s lives. We understand that high-functioning alcoholics often have demanding careers, family responsibilities, and social obligations that cannot be entirely disrupted during the recovery process.

At Ardu, we employ a team of experienced professionals who are well-versed in the nuances of high-functioning alcoholism. Our experts utilize a combination of evidence-based therapies, holistic treatments, and innovative approaches to create individualized treatment plans. These plans are carefully crafted to address not only the alcohol dependence but also the underlying factors that contribute to it, such as stress, mental health issues, or unresolved trauma.

Alcohol detox services

The first crucial step in overcoming alcohol addiction is detoxification, a process that requires a safe and controlled environment. Our detox services provide precisely that. Withdrawal can be severe and potentially life-threatening, which is why our medically supervised detox program ensures your comfort and safety throughout this challenging phase.

Our medical team closely monitors your vital signs, manages withdrawal symptoms, and provides necessary medications to ease discomfort. Our supportive staff is available 24/7 to provide care, encouragement, and the medical expertise needed to guide you safely through this critical first step towards a life free from alcohol dependence.

When you successfully finish the detox process, the journey to recovery continues with rehabilitation.

Alcohol rehab services

After detox, the crucial phase in overcoming alcohol addiction begins. Our rehab programs address the underlying causes of addiction and equip you with the tools needed for long-term sobriety. You’ll engage in different therapeutic modalities, including individual counseling, group therapy, and holistic treatments such as yoga, meditation, nutritional therapy, and art therapy. These sessions help you understand your addiction, develop coping strategies, and build a strong foundation for recovery.

We also focus on life skills training, stress management, and relapse prevention techniques.

For high-functioning individuals, our rehab programs offer the flexibility to maintain professional commitments while receiving intensive treatment. We tailor our approach to your unique needs, making sure that you can navigate recovery without compromising your career or personal responsibilities.

Therapies we offer

At Ardu, we employ a range of therapies and treatments tailored to address high-functioning alcoholism:

Dual diagnosis treatment: many high-functioning alcoholics struggle with underlying mental health issues. Our dual diagnosis program addresses both alcohol addiction and co-occurring conditions to achieve a well-rounded, comprehensive approach to recovery.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): this treatment allows clients to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to alcohol use. For high-functioning alcoholics, CBT is particularly useful in addressing work-related stress triggers and developing healthier coping mechanisms.
Motivational interviewing: our client-centered approach is effective for high-functioning individuals who may be ambivalent about treatment. We help clients explore and resolve their mixed feelings about changing their drinking habits, focusing on their personal motivations for recovery.
Flexible outpatient programs: for those who need to maintain work or family commitments, we offer outpatient options that allow clients to receive treatment while continuing their daily routines. This flexibility is crucial for high-functioning individuals who may be reluctant to step away from their responsibilities.
Family therapy: alcoholism affects more than just the individual. We involve family members in the treatment process, addressing relationship dynamics and teaching loved ones how to support recovery effectively.
Medication-assisted treatment: when appropriate, we use FDA-approved medications to aid in recovery. This aids high-functioning alcoholics in managing cravings and withdrawal symptoms while maintaining their professional performance.
Comprehensive aftercare planning: recovery doesn’t end when treatment does. We provide ongoing support and planning to help clients maintain sobriety while reintegrating into their high-pressure lifestyles.

Our experienced professionals are equipped to handle even the most severe cases of alcohol addiction. We offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of each resident. We understand the significant challenges our clients face, so we strive to make the recovery process as comfortable and effective as possible.

To enroll in an Ardu program, contact us online or via phone (801-872-8480). We will find a recovery path that works for you during detox and beyond.

Brandon Okey is the co-founder of Ardu Recovery Center and is dedicated to empowering people on their journey to sobriety.

Alcoholism FAQ

Do alcoholics have more dopamine?

Alcoholics don’t necessarily have more dopamine, but their brains respond differently to it. Chronic alcohol use alters the brain’s reward system, making it more sensitive to alcohol-induced dopamine release. This leads to increased cravings and tolerance. Over time, they may experience a decrease in natural dopamine production, requiring more alcohol to achieve the same pleasurable effects.

This dopamine dysregulation contributes to the cycle of addiction. The relationship between alcohol and dopamine is complex and involves different neurotransmitters and brain regions.

Is a bottle of wine a day too much?

A bottle of wine daily is excessive drinking and can lead to serious health consequences. Moderate drinking is up to one glass per day for women and two for men; a bottle of wine far exceeds these limits. Regular heavy drinking increases the risk of liver disease, heart problems, certain cancers, and mental health issues. It can also lead to alcohol dependence and impact personal and professional relationships.

Can alcohol permanently damage your brain?

Alcohol can cause permanent brain damage, especially with long-term heavy use. Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to brain shrinkage, particularly affecting areas responsible for memory, learning, and decision-making. It can cause Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, a severe form of brain damage resulting from thiamine deficiency. Alcohol also disrupts neurotransmitter balance, potentially leading to lasting changes in brain function.

While some effects of alcohol on the brain may be reversible with abstinence, certain types of damage can be permanent. The developing brains of adolescents and young adults are particularly vulnerable. The brain has some capacity for healing, and early intervention can minimize long-term damage.

Does alcohol affect IQ?

Alcohol doesn’t directly lower IQ scores, but it can significantly impair cognitive functions that IQ tests measure. Chronic heavy drinking can lead to deficits in problem-solving, memory, and processing speed—all components of intelligence. Long-term alcohol abuse may cause brain shrinkage in areas crucial for these cognitive functions. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable, because alcohol interferes with brain development, potentially affecting IQ potential.

Some cognitive effects may be reversible with abstinence. IQ is just one measure of intelligence and alcohol affects many aspects of mental and emotional functioning. The relationship between alcohol and cognitive ability is complex and involves factors such as genetics, drinking patterns, and overall health.

What is alcohol dementia?

Alcohol-related dementia, also known as alcohol-induced dementia or Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, is a form of cognitive decline caused by long-term, heavy alcohol use. It results from brain damage. Alcohol is a toxin and causes nutritional deficiencies, particularly in thiamine (vitamin B1). Alcohol dementia often affects people in their 50s and 60s, earlier than most other types of dementia.

Symptoms of alcohol dementia include:

Memory loss
Difficulty with problem-solving
Impaired judgment
Personality changes

Unlike other forms of dementia, some symptoms may improve with abstinence and proper nutrition. Severe cases can lead to permanent cognitive impairment.

What happens to your body if you drink alcohol every night?

Drinking alcohol every night can have serious health consequences.

It can lead to liver damage, including fatty liver disease, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis.
Regular drinking increases the risk of cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure and heart disease.
It disrupts sleep patterns, leading to insomnia and poor sleep quality.
Nightly drinking may also contribute to weight gain and digestive issues.
Over time, it can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections.
Mental health can suffer, with an increased risk of depression and anxiety.
Daily drinkers develop tolerance, which leads to physical dependence and alcohol use disorder.
Alcohol also impacts personal and professional relationships.

The cumulative effects of nightly drinking can significantly reduce overall health and life quality.

Resources

Researchers Identify Alcoholism Subtypes. (2015, September 29). National Institutes of Health (NIH). https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/researchers-identify-alcoholism-subtypes

Skerrett, P. J. (2014, November 22). Heavy drinkers aren’t necessarily alcoholics but may be “almost alcoholics” Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/heavy-drinkers-arent-necessarily-alcoholics-may-almost-alcoholics-201411217539

Osna, N. A., & Kharbanda, K. K. (2017). Alcoholic Liver Disease: Pathogenesis and Current Management. Alcohol Research: Current Reviews, 38(2), 147-161. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5513682/

Chudzińska, M., Wołowiec, Ł., Banach, J., Rogowicz, D., & Grześk, G. (2022). Alcohol and Cardiovascular Diseases—Do the Consumption Pattern and Dose Make the Difference? Journal of Cardiovascular Development and Disease, 9(10), 317. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd9100317

Meda, S. A., Hawkins, K. A., Dager, A. D., Tennen, H., Khadka, S., Austad, C. S., Wood, R. M., Raskin, S., Fallahi, C. R., & Pearlson, G. D. (2018). Longitudinal effects of alcohol consumption on the hippocampus and parahippocampus in college students. Biological Psychiatry. Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging, 3(7), 610. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bpsc.2018.02.006

Sarkar, D., Jung, M. K., & Wang, H. J. (2015). Alcohol and the Immune System. Alcohol Research: Current Reviews, 37(2), 153-155. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4590612/

Bishehsari, F., Magno, E., Swanson, G., Desai, V., Voigt, R. M., Forsyth, C. B., & Keshavarzian, A. (2017). Alcohol and Gut-Derived Inflammation. Alcohol Research: Current Reviews, 38(2), 163-171. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5513683/

Roehrs, T., & Roth, T. (1995). Alcohol-Induced Sleepiness and Memory Function. Alcohol Health and Research World, 19(2), 130-135. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6875726/

No level of alcohol consumption is safe for our health. (2023, January 4). https://www.who.int/europe/news/item/04-01-2023-no-level-of-alcohol-consumption-is-safe-for-our-health

Seitz, H. K., & Becker, P. (2007). Alcohol Metabolism and Cancer Risk. Alcohol Research & Health, 30(1), 38-47. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3860434/