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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
World
Gemma Jones

Disturbing reason some people turn red when they drink alcohol - and there's no cure

Medical experts have explained the disturbing and worrying reason why some people turn red after consuming too much alcohol.

If you find yourself turning a bit rouge after a few too many pints, it could be a condition called 'alcohol flush reaction'.

Side effects of the condition can include skin colouration, nausea, headaches, and a rapid heartbeat.

READ MORE: Expert's warning to those taking part in Dry January

The cause is a build up of something called acetaldehyde - a toxic carcinogen.

Alcohol isn't particularly beneficial to anyone on a medical level and the NHS advises against drinking in large quantities.

When alcohol is consumed, our livers convert the compounds into acetate, which is much safer.

But, those who suffer with alcohol flush have acetaldehyde lurking about for much longer as the conversion is slower.

These people are at higher risk of the more dangerous effects of alcohol, both immediately and in later life.

Turning a different colour after too many drinks may be something which has led many to participate in Dry January, with over 7.9 million people taking part this year.

Research by the University of Sussex found that those taking part in the alcohol-free month significantly improved their health and wellbeing, even six months later.

Dr Richard Piper, chief executive of Alcohol Change UK, said: "We know that things are feeling uncertain at the moment and some of us will be looking for ways to cope. As the pandemic continues to take its toll, research consistently shows that, for many people who were already drinking heavily, our drinking habits may have taken a turn for the worse.

"It makes sense to get on top of our drinking using strategies that are proven to work. And that's where Dry January comes in. It offers the opportunity for a total reset. 31 days to try something new. Sleep better and have more energy, improve your mental health and concentration, look fabulous and get brighter skin, save money and feel an amazing sense of achievement."

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