Alcohol and the Body

There is a limit to the amount of alcohol anyone can process in a given time (approximately 1 oz. per hour). Women metabolize alcohol at a slower rate than men. This limit is set by the number of molecules of the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase that reside in the liver.

The type of enzyme produced varies with individuals depending on their genes.

Alcohol interferes with the distribution of nutrients and oxygen to the liver cells.

Alcohol causes the stomach cells to over secrete histamine and acid.

Intestinal walls fail to absorb thiamine, folic acid, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12.

Liver cells lose efficiency in activating vitamin D.

Deficiencies of protein develop.

Lipoprotein synthesis is accelerated increasing blood triglyceride levels.

The body's immune system is compromised.

The kidneys excrete increased quantities of magnesium, calcium, potassium and zinc. This predisposes you to osteoporosis.

Amino acid metabolism in the liver is altered.

Bile production and excretion by the liver is altered.

Rod cells in the eyes are affected.

Alcohol interferes with medications.

There is a dangerous shift in the acid-base balance toward acid.