In: Biology
4. List five factors that affect the absorption rate of alcohol in the bloodstream.
Once alcohol is swallowed, it travels down the esophagus into the stomach and the small intestine. It avoids the normal digestive process and goes right into the bloodstream. About 20 percent of the alcohol consumed is absorbed in the stomach, and about 80 percent is absorbed in the small intestine.
Alcohol is absorbed from the stomach and small intestine by diffusion.
Most absorption occurs from the small intestine due to its large surface area and rich blood supply.
The rate of absorption varies with the emptying time of the stomach.
Alcohol absorption rate increases with:
Alcohol absorption rate decreases with:
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Generally, the higher the alcohol concentration of the beverage, the faster the rate of absorption. However, above a certain concentration, the rate of absorption may decrease due to the delayed passage of alcohol from the stomach into the small intestine.
The maximum absorption rate is obtained with the consumption of an alcoholic beverage containing approximately 20-25% (by volume or v/v) alcohol solution on an empty stomach.
The absorption rate may be less when alcohol is consumed with food or when a 40% (v/v) alcohol solution is consumed on an empty stomach.
The rate may also slow down when high fluid volume/low alcohol content beverages, such as beer, are consumed.
Having food in stomach will help slow the absorption of alcohol.