What is Alcohol? Definition, Structure and Types

Alcohol is a chemical substance found in drinks like wine, liquor, and beer.  It is also found in some medicines, mouthwashes, household products, and essential oils (scented liquid taken from certain plants). It is made through the chemical process called fermentation and uses sugars and yeast which combine to create alcohol. There are different types of alcohol and many drinks have varying levels of alcohol within them. The ingredient used to make alcoholic drinks is called ethyl alcohol (ethanol). Drinking regular or large amounts of alcohol may increase the risk of certain diseases such as cancer or diabetes which can occur from sugar consumption. Individuals can also develop an alcohol dependency when it is consumed on a daily basis. Alcohol is a popular legally controlled psychoactive drug that is commonly consumed in social settings. Ethanol, or ethyl alcohol, is the intoxicating ingredient in alcoholic beverages that produces the feeling of being drunk. It lowers anxiety and inhibitions with a broad range of side effects, from euphoria to other harder side effects such as loss of coordination to slurred speech.

How is Alcohol Processed In The Human Body

When ingested, about 20% of alcohol is absorbed through the stomach; the other 80% is absorbed in the small intestine. Alcohol makes its way to the rest of the body through the bloodstream and begins to disrupt the body’s system’s normal functioning. The liver breaks down the majority of alcohol that has been consumed. Long-term use of alcohol and excessive drinking can put a strain on the liver, which can cause related health issues. In the brain, alcohol interacts with neurotransmitters and impacts the normal functioning of mood, awareness, and perception.