Drinking alcohol affects your nervous system and acts as a mild anesthetic and tranquilizer. It is harmful if consumed in large amounts. It can be an addictive substance. Alcohol is a leading cause of traffic accidents in the United States because it slows reaction time and impairs judgment.

Moderate drinking is defined as 1 - 2 glasses of beer, wine, or other alcoholic beverage daily. Moderate alcohol consumption, especially when combined with a Mediterranean-style diet, has been shown to improve cardiovascular (heart and blood vessels) health.

Continued, excessive use of alcohol can damage the liver. It can cause alcoholic hepatitis and a fatty liver. A fatty liver can progress to cirrhosis of the liver, a potentially fatal condition.

Alcohol increases the risk of developing cancer of the esophagus, throat, larynx, mouth, and breast.

Drinking alcohol can damage the lining of the small intestine and the stomach, which affects the body's ability to absorb essential nutrients.

Alcohol can impair sexual function, even though it may increase your interest in sexual activity.

Pregnant women should not drink alcohol. Alcohol intake during pregnancy has been identified as the cause of fetal alcohol syndrome.