Alcohol Recall

Alcohol impairs nearly every aspect of the brain's ability to process information. But how each individual is affected depends on how fast alcohol enters the bloodstream - and that depends on number of variables.

Alcohol can be absorbed through both the stomach and small intestine, so it enters the bloodstream quickly. Five ounces of wine, 12 ounces of beer, and 1.5 ounces of 80-proof spirits all contain the same amount of pure alcohol, about two thirds of an ounce. However, alcohol in beer and wine is less concentrated than in spirits and it tends to be absorbed more slowly than that in straight whiskey.

On the other hand, the carbon dioxide in champagne and in drinks mixed with soda seems to speed up absorption. Eating while or before drinking, particularly high-fat foods, can slow absorption, while other factors may intensify the effects of alcohol.

When an ounce of alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream, it takes the body approximately one hour to metabolize it. And once alcohol is in the bloodstream, nothing can be done to speed up the process of removing it. Contrary to popular myths, you cannot exercise alcohol away or get rid of it by eating a meal, taking a cold shower, or drinking coffee.

Time is the only factor that lessens the effect of alcohol on the body.

Advocate Health Care encourages you to use caution, and never drive, if consuming alcohol.