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Effects of Alcohol
It is well known that heavy alcohol consumption can lead to severe liver disease including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, but the effects of alcohol on HCV and its treatment are less well studied. As described in the December 15, 2008 Journal of Infectious Diseases, E. McCartney and colleagues performed a laboratory study using cultured Huh-7 cells to examine the effects of alcohol metabolism on HCV replication and the antiviral activity of interferon. They found that exposing the cells to ethanol significantly increased HCV replication, which was dependent on oxidative stress; when the researchers added NAC to the cell cultures, ethanol no longer increased HCV replication. Furthermore, the anti-HCV activity of interferon was also reduced in the presence of ethanol. "These in vitro results mimic what is often noted clinically," the researchers concluded, supporting the recommendation that people with chronic hepatitis C should avoid alcohol or consume only small amounts.
Maybe I'm reading you incorrectly, but no one is suggesting anyone should drink alcohol on treatment. I had assumed the implications of the study -- plus Dointime's follow-up post -- referred to alcohol consumption before and after treatment.
My opinion only Unless a person has a drinking problem- I dont understand why a person would miss drinking occasionally? Alchohol is not important to someone who doesnt have a drinking problem. They shouldnt miss it or even think about it, especially under our circumstances.
I'd have a harder time living without pasta and roast beef than an occasional drink.
Especially since we have HCV!! and thats a NO NO.
Not worth it--Its so insignificant to me.
My opinion only.
After all the problems we go thru with this disease,tx, retxing etc.
WHY would you jeopardize yourself by even thinking of it--when its not important?
Charm
I'd have a harder time living without pasta and roast beef than an occasional drink.
Especially since we have HCV!! and thats a NO NO.
Not worth it--Its so insignificant to me.
My opinion only.
After all the problems we go thru with this disease,tx, retxing etc.
WHY would you jeopardize yourself by even thinking of it--when its not important?
Charm
Over consumption of high fructose corn syrup is potentially worse for your liver than moderate alcohol consumption.
Unless you're willing to give up sweets, get down to an ideal BMI, exercise on a regular basis, stop smoking cigarettes -- then I find it odd that people make this argument against alcohol, especially since -- unlike the other things mentioned -- studies suggest health benefits in terms of the heart.
Unless you're willing to give up sweets, get down to an ideal BMI, exercise on a regular basis, stop smoking cigarettes -- then I find it odd that people make this argument against alcohol, especially since -- unlike the other things mentioned -- studies suggest health benefits in terms of the heart.
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