Research by Dr Gerald Minuk, of the Univeresity of Manitoba in his report to the American Association fo the study of liver disease. The researchers tested rats that had 70% of their livers removed and found a partial regeneration of the organ in those consuming the equivalent of one or two drinks a day. Heavy drinking (four or more units) inhibited liver repair.' This finding raises the possibility that social drinking may not have an adverse effect on the natural history of acute or chronic liver disease. 'In certain cases one or two drinks might be considered beneficial rather than harmful to the liver' commented Dr Minuk.The tests have yet to be aplied to humans.