Chronic alcohol use can lead to which condition?

• A. Enhances nutrient absorption
• B. Interferes with metabolism and can cause cirrhosis
• C. No effect on nutrition
• D. Reduces risk of obesity

Answer: (B)

Chronic alcohol use disrupts how the liver processes nutrients and how metabolism works, and over time it can cause serious liver damage leading to cirrhosis. When alcohol is consumed repeatedly, the liver converts it to acetaldehyde and then acetate, creating a high NADH environment that promotes fat synthesis and reduces fat breakdown. This shift causes fatty liver, and with ongoing injury it can progress to inflammation, fibrosis, and eventually cirrhosis. In addition, alcohol impairs overall nutrient metabolism and can lead to malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies, compounding health problems. So the statement that alcohol interferes with metabolism and can cause cirrhosis best captures the established effects.