THAT’S NOT ALL –
July 3, 2025 – We’ve all heard that certain foods and drinks can help support our immune system, but alcohol is a different story. For years, experts have been warning about the negative effects of alcohol on various aspects of our health, and now, it’s clear that it also plays a significant role in suppressing immune function.
One of the main reasons alcohol harms the immune system is through dehydration. Alcohol has a diuretic effect, which means it causes the body to lose more fluid than it takes in. According to Roxana Ehsani, a registered dietitian-nutritionist, alcohol can lead to significant dehydration, which in turn prevents the immune system from working properly. Without sufficient hydration, the body struggles to produce antibodies and fight off infections. This is why after a night of heavy drinking, many of us feel rundown or sick; the body is literally too dehydrated to respond effectively to invaders like viruses.
Another significant impact of alcohol on the immune system is its effect on gut health. The intestines are the first point of contact for alcohol, and when consumed in excess, alcohol can disrupt the gut microbiome—the beneficial bacteria that play a crucial role in digestion and immune defense. As Roxana Ehsani explains, alcohol damages these good bacteria, making it harder for the immune system to function properly. A weakened microbiome means the body is less capable of fighting off pathogens, leaving us more vulnerable to illness.
