What happens when the body cleanses itself of alcohol?
Stage 1: Absorption- Alcohol passes from the mouth to the stomach and small intestines.
- The stomach absorbs and breaks down alcohol through stomach acids and enzymes.
- The small intestine further breaks it down.
- Blood vessels in the small intestine absorb the alcohol, letting it enter the bloodstream.
Stage 2: Distribution
- Alcohol travels to the brain, liver, heart, lungs, and other organs through the bloodstream.
- The brain is especially sensitive to alcohol's effects due to its high concentration of water and blood vessels.
Stage 3: Metabolism
- Liver breaks down 90-95% of alcohol.
- Alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH): Converts alcohol into acetaldehyde.
- Acetaldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH): Converts acetaldehyde into acetate.
- Acetate: Combines with coenzyme A to form acetyl Co-A, entering the citric acid cycle for energy production.
- Some metabolism also occurs in the stomach and kidneys.
Stage 4: Elimination
- Kidneys filter out small amounts of alcohol.
- Lungs release alcohol through exhalation.
- About 5% of alcohol is excreted unchanged in the breath, sweat, and urine.
- The elimination rate is constant and about 0.015 BAC per hour, approximately one drink per hour.
During the cleansing process, the liver works hard to break down and remove alcohol from the body, which can cause a variety of symptoms and changes in the body, including:
1. Dehydration: Alcohol suppresses the release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which regulates fluid balance. This causes increased urination and fluid loss, leading to dehydration.
2. Headaches: Dehydration contributes to headaches associated with alcohol consumption. Blood vessels in the brain dilate, further contributing to discomfort.
3. Muscle Aches: Alcohol can directly or indirectly affect muscles, leading to muscle pain and stiffness.
4. Nausea and Vomiting: Irritated stomach lining due to alcohol can cause nausea and vomiting.
5. Increased Heart Rate: Alcohol affects heart rate regulation, causing it to increase or become irregular.
6. Fatigue and Lack of Energy: Impaired liver function and energy depletion can lead to fatigue after alcohol consumption.
7. Mood Swings: Alcohol affects neurotransmitter levels, leading to moodの変化, irritability, and emotional volatility.
8. Mental Confusion: Alcohol impairs cognitive function and clarity of thought.
9. Sleep Disturbances: Alcohol initially makes people feel drowsy but later disrupts sleep quality and architecture, leading to disturbed or unrefreshing sleep.
It's important to note that the duration and intensity of these effects depend on various factors, including the amount and frequency of alcohol intake, individual metabolism, and整体health. Heavy or excessive alcohol consumption can prolong and exacerbate the cleansing process and negatively impact overall well-being.