Alcohol's Impact on Gut Health Recent exploration into alcohol's effects on gut microbes has revealed intriguing findings. While a drink can complement a meal, its impact on the trillions of gut bacteria remains unclear. Research indicates heavy drinking can lead to an imbalance of "good" and "bad" bacteria, known as dysbiosis, associated with inflammation and disease. Additionally, heavy drinkers may experience a "leakier" intestinal lining, posing potential health risks. This emerging field of study highlights the importance of understanding alcohol's influence on gut health.