But too much alcohol, too often for too long causes the vital tissues in the liver to break down. Fatty deposits accumulate and scarring occurs. Cirrhosis is most commonly found in men over 45, yet the number of women developing cirrhosis is steadily increasing. To make matters worse, people who regularly overindulge in alcohol generally have poor nutritional habits. When alcohol replaces food, essential vitamins and minerals can be missing from the diet.
Malnutrition aggravates cirrhosis.
While alcohol abuse is the most common cause of cirrhosis, hepatitis, taking certain drugs, or exposure to certain chemicals can also produce this condition. American Institute for Preventive Medicine. 2001 Partners in Corporate Health, Inc.