Is binge drinking really that bad? An Horizon special.

Horizon Special. Programme looks at how the pattern in which we consume alcohol affects our health. Presenters Dr Chris van Tulleken and Dr Xand van Tulleken undergo an experiment that compares binge drinking to moderate daily drinking. The presenters visit The Royal Free Hospital where Dr Gautam Mehta runs fibroscans of their livers. Chris van Tulleken explains the journey alcohol takes through the body. Consultant Cardiologist Dr Gerry Carr-White looks at the impact of drinking on the heart by conducting ultrasounds on the van Tullekens to monitor their heart valves. Xand van Tulleken explains a device that measures the concentration of alcohol in his blood through his sweat. The van Tullekens discuss blood alcohol levels during binging, and view the results of a urine test to compare levels of dehydration. Consultant Hepatologist Dr Ashley Brown explains the genetic factors connected to drinking alcohol and suffering hangovers. Consultant Liver Transplant Surgeon Professor Nigel Heaton discusses live donor programmes for liver transplants. Dr John Cullen explains his research into alcohol consumption using mice that are genetically modified to be more susceptible to heart defects and strokes. Cullen exhibits an example of Acetaldehyde. Mehta and Dr Rajiv Jalan explain and discuss the effect of drinking on cytokines and endotoxin, and systemic inflammation.