Alcohol Addiction - What Happens to Alcohol When It Enters the Body?

When alcohol enters the body, it follows a specific path through several stages:

• Absorption:
  • Alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream primarily through the walls of the stomach and small intestine. About 20% of alcohol is absorbed through the stomach, while 80% is absorbed through the small intestine.
  • The absorption rate can be influenced by factors such as the type of alcohol, whether you've eaten, and the concentration of alcohol in the beverage.
• Distribution:
  • Once absorbed, alcohol is distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. It reaches all tissues and organs, including the brain, liver, and kidneys.
  • The effects of alcohol, such as intoxication, are felt as it crosses the blood-brain barrier and influences the central nervous system.
• Metabolism:
  • The liver is the primary organ responsible for metabolizing alcohol. The enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) breaks down alcohol into acetaldehyde, a toxic compound.
  • Acetaldehyde is further broken down into acetate by another enzyme, aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH). Acetate is then converted into water and carbon dioxide, which are eventually eliminated from the body.
  • The liver can metabolize alcohol at a fairly constant rate (about one standard drink per hour), and excess alcohol remains in the bloodstream until the liver can process it.
• Excretion:
  • Alcohol that is not metabolized by the liver is excreted from the body through urine, sweat, and breath. This is why breathalyzers can detect alcohol, as some is expelled through the lungs.

Effects on the Body:

• Brain: Alcohol acts as a depressant on the central nervous system, affecting motor skills, judgment, and coordination.
• Liver: Over time, heavy drinking can lead to liver diseases like fatty liver, hepatitis, and cirrhosis.
• Digestive System: Alcohol can irritate the stomach lining, causing nausea, vomiting, or ulcers.
• Heart: While moderate consumption may have some protective effects, excessive drinking can increase the risk of heart disease, hypertension, and stroke.

Ultimately, the effects and processing of alcohol depend on various factors, such as body weight, age, gender, drinking habits, and general health.