In general, people with liver diseases are advised to limit alcohol intake or cut it out completely. But is the occasional drink safe for patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC)?
How does alcohol impact PBC?
PBC is an autoimmune disease caused when the body’s immune system attacks the liver’s bile ducts. Although the exact cause of PBC isn’t known, alcohol is not believed to be a cause of the disease.
Read more about frequently asked questions about PBC
That being said, alcohol and its byproducts are toxic to the liver. Excessive drinking can lead to damage, including:
- Buildup of fat, also known as hepatic steatosis or fatty liver.
- Formation of scar tissue.
- Inflammation.
Too much alcohol consumption can put strain on the liver, impacting its ability to detoxify harmful substances and process nutrients. For patients with PBC who already have some degree of liver damage, therefore, alcohol can further contribute to symptoms.
Can you drink alcohol with PBC?
There’s no single answer to the question of whether people with PBC can drink alcohol. The potential effects of alcohol will differ from person to person, so it’s always best to check with your doctor to understand your risk.
Overall, though, patients with PBC should minimize their alcohol consumption, and if possible, completely avoid it.
For some people, having a drink every once in a while may be safe. For others, though — especially patients with PBC-related cirrhosis — alcohol should be completely avoided.
Tips for cutting down on alcohol
If you’re used to everything from a friend’s breakup to the end of the workweek calling for a drink, avoiding alcohol might not be easy. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Count your drinks: If you do decide to drink, keep a tally of what you are drinking and how much.
- Swap alcohol for other drinks: Try switching out alcohol for juice, soda or flavored waters. You can also experiment with mocktails — there are plenty of recipes online.
- Avoid triggers: For some people, being in certain spaces can influence them to drink. Staying away from these places can help you stick to your goals.
- Know that it’s okay to say “no:” If you’re offered an alcoholic beverage, you can always politely decline. Don’t feel like you have to explain yourself if you aren’t comfortable doing so.
If you’re having trouble cutting back on your alcohol consumption, you shouldn’t feel ashamed. Many people find it hard to change their habits, especially in a society where alcohol and socializing often go hand in hand.
Consider asking your loved ones for support in lessening your alcohol intake, or reach out to your healthcare provider if you need more advice.
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