Excessive or chronic alcohol consumption causes the liver to become fatty.  The fatty deposits block the liver's supply of blood, hindering the absorption of oxygen and nutrients.  Liver cells eventually die from nutritional starvation.  This process leads to a breakdown of liver cells.  The cells are replaced with scar tissue.  The scar tissue inhibits the function of the liver.  This is called cirrhosis. 

Remember, the liver is vital to life and wellness of the body.  The liver serves many functions to the body such as the break down of blood sugars and filtration of toxins.  Cirrhosis leads to a reduced ability to handle alcohol and other toxins in the body.  The toxins that are free flowing in the body can poison other systems and organs.  People suffering from cirrhosis suffer long painful deterioration that can lead to death. 

Studies show that even three to four drinks a day over the course of a few years can lead to this life threatening disease.