Impact of Diet and Exercise on Reducing Alcohol-Related Liver Damage

A recent comprehensive study has demonstrated that maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of liver-related mortality associated with alcohol consumption. Using data from over 60,000 adults in the U.S., researchers analyzed how different levels and patterns of alcohol intake interact with lifestyle behaviors. They found that even among heavy or binge drinkers, adherence to nutritious dietary habits and increased physical activity lowered the risk of liver death substantially.

The study highlights that a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, grains, seafood, plant-based proteins, and healthy fats, while minimizing empty calories from fats, sugars, and alcohol, correlates with a lower risk of adverse liver outcomes. Moreover, physical activity was associated with a 36-69% reduction in liver mortality risk, especially in heavy drinkers.

Interestingly, women exhibited a higher baseline risk for alcohol-related liver disease but also gained more significant protective benefits from healthy lifestyles. Socioeconomic factors also played a role, with disadvantaged populations facing higher risks due to a combination of high-risk alcohol use, poor diet, and physical inactivity.

The findings emphasize that lifestyle modifications—particularly healthy eating and regular exercise—can play a critical role in mitigating liver damage, even for individuals at high risk due to alcohol consumption. This research underscores the importance of considering comprehensive lifestyle factors when assessing and managing health risks related to alcohol use.

Published in the Journal of Hepatology, this study underscores the potential for behavioral interventions to improve liver health across diverse populations and drinking patterns.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-reveals-beneficial-effects-diet-alcohol.html