Final answer:
The substance in alcoholic drinks that can lead to liver damage when consumed in excess over time is ethanol. Excessive and chronic consumption of ethanol can cause liver diseases like cirrhosis, impair kidney function, and disrupt the body's excretory system.
Step-by-step explanation:
The substance that has been shown to cause liver damage when consumed during and after alcohol consumption is ethanol, which is the active ingredient in alcoholic beverages. When an individual consumes alcohol excessively over a long period, it can lead to chronic liver diseases such as cirrhosis. '
The liver, a key organ in the excretory system, has the role of metabolizing toxic substances, including alcohol. However, ethanol's metabolism in the liver can create compounds that are more toxic than the alcohol itself, such as acetaldehyde. This can lead to cellular damage and eventually liver dysfunction.
Additionally, chronic alcohol intake can harm the kidneys, which work with the liver to remove waste from the bloodstream. Subsequently, this impairment can cause kidney disease and disrupt the body's regulation of water and ion balance, leading to further health complications.