Alcohol Awareness Week
A timely reminder to check in on your health
Alcohol Awareness Week is a national campaign that takes place every July to encourage people across the UK to reflect on their drinking habits and learn more about the impact of alcohol on their health. It’s a chance to open up conversations, reduce stigma and take positive steps toward healthier living.
This year, why not use Alcohol Awareness Week as the perfect opportunity to give your body a little extra care? One of the most effective ways to understand how alcohol might be affecting your body is through a Liver Function test, a simple yet powerful test included in all of our Health MOT packages.
Why your liver health matters
Your liver plays a crucial role in keeping your body balanced and healthy. It processes alcohol, filters toxins from your blood, stores essential nutrients and helps regulate your metabolism.
However, excessive or long-term alcohol consumption can lead to serious liver conditions, including fatty liver disease, hepatitis and cirrhosis. According to this report from The Health Foundation, in 2023/24, there were 340,000 hospital admissions for alcohol-specific conditions, with alcohol misuse estimated to cost £4.9 billion per year to the NHS and healthcare services; a stark reminder of the toll alcohol can take on liver health.
Understanding the signs of liver strain
One of the challenges with liver health is that damage can develop silently over time, without noticeable symptoms. Some early signs may include:
- Persistent fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Abdominal discomfort or bloating
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, or even if you’re just curious about your liver health, a Liver Function test can provide valuable insight.
What is a Liver Function test?
A Liver Function test (LFT) is a blood test that measures specific enzymes, proteins and substances produced by the liver. These markers help identify inflammation, damage, or impaired liver function.
A Bluecrest Liver Function test includes:
- Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) – Elevated levels may suggest liver cell damage
- Gamma GT (Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase) - Elevated GGT levels can suggest liver damage or disease
- Bilirubin – High levels can cause jaundice and signal liver dysfunction
- Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) - Abnormal levels can suggest issues in the liver or gallbladder
Why now is the perfect time to book a liver test
Alcohol Awareness Week is more than just a campaign; it’s a chance to pause and reflect on your lifestyle. Whether you drink regularly, socially or occasionally, a Liver Function test offers peace of mind and a clearer picture of your health.
Taking this step now means you can:
- Detect early signs of liver stress or damage
- Make informed choices about your alcohol intake
- Monitor improvements if you’ve reduced or stopped drinking
- Receive guidance on next steps if issues are identified
Bluecrest Health MOTs include liver testing alongside other checks like cholesterol, blood sugar and kidney function, giving you a comprehensive view of your wellbeing.
How to keep your liver healthy
To improve liver function, it's essential to adopt healthy lifestyle habits. Limiting alcohol is crucial, as excessive drinking is a leading cause of liver disease in the UK. Stick to under 14 units per week, avoid binge drinking and take at least two alcohol-free days weekly. A balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits and fibre supports liver health, while certain foods like artichokes, turmeric, garlic and oily fish offer additional benefits. Supplements like milk thistle may also help.
Maintaining a healthy weight is vital, as obesity can lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which may progress to cirrhosis. Regular physical activity, even light forms like walking or gardening, helps burn fat and prevent liver damage. If you already have liver disease, a specialist diet and small, frequent meals can ease symptoms and support recovery. For more information, read our article, How to keep your liver healthy.
How to book your health assessment
Booking a health assessment with Bluecrest is quick, straightforward and cost-effective. Whether you're looking to take preventative action or simply want peace of mind, it's an empowering way to take control of your health.
At Bluecrest, our Health MOTs are designed to help you understand your body better and make confident decisions about your lifestyle. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.
A healthier future starts today
Alcohol Awareness Week reminds us that small changes can make a big difference. By checking in with and monitoring your liver health, you’re taking an empowering step toward a healthier, more balanced future.
If you’re ready to unlock your full potential, now is the time to prioritise your health; starting with your liver.
