What can excessive alcohol intake contribute to regarding digestion?

Excessive alcohol intake can significantly affect gut health, primarily by increasing gut permeability, often referred to as "leaky gut." When the lining of the intestines becomes more permeable, it allows substances, including toxins and undigested food particles, to pass through into the bloodstream. This can lead to a range of adverse health effects, including inflammation and various digestive disorders. As the intestinal barrier weakens, the body's immune response may also be triggered, leading to further complications.

This process contrasts markedly with improved enzyme production, better nutrient absorption, or enhanced bile production, which are aspects typically associated with healthy digestion and are not effects of excessive alcohol consumption. Instead, alcohol consumption tends to negatively impact these processes, leading to a decrease in nutrient absorption and potentially impairing the body's ability to produce bile effectively.