Effects of Alcohol Consumption

 

     Although there are many  molecules present in our diet and our body that can be classified as alcohol, since alcohol is any molecule that contains the hydroxyl group (OH). The term alcohol is however mostly used for ethanol. Alcoholic drinks or beverages consist mainly of water ethanol and sugar. 

   Alcohol is absorbed rapidly in the body, it is also water soluble. Since alcohol is a toxin and cannot be stored in the body because it is harmful, it is eliminated quickly. About 90% of alcohol taken in is metabolized by the liver, about 5% is excreted in our urine and the remaining 5% is removed from the body via exhalation. The alcohol that reaches the kidney acts as diuretic thereby increasing water excretion. This explains the reason why excessive alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration. Vitamin B (thiamine)  deficiency is also a condition associated with excessive  alcohol consumption. Vitamin B is water soluble, alcohol increases water excretion since Vitamin B is water soluble in water it is therefore not absorbed in the body but excreted. 

        Alcohol can also lead to primary malnutrition. Alcohol gives energy but it is low in nutrient, excessive alcohol consumption leads to nutrient dense energy being replaced. Since alcohol is low in nutrient but high in energy. It leads to nutrient deficiency. 

   Chronic malnutrition leads to liver damage, since alcohol causes malnutrition, it can lead to liver damage if it's consumption is not put to check.

Avoid alcohol, if not take less alcohol!

Thanks for reading

Article By:

Ifeoluwa Ishola

Food, Nutrients & Health

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