SIR Alcohol and the Body

Question 1

Which organ is primarily responsible for metabolizing alcohol in the body?

Accepted Answer

The liver

Answer

The liver is the primary organ that metabolizes alcohol, processing roughly one standard drink per hour.

Question 2

Approximately how long does it take for the liver to process one standard drink?

Accepted Answer

1 hour

Answer

On average, the liver can metabolize one standard drink per hour regardless of coffee, food, or other remedies.

Question 3

What percentage of consumed alcohol is absorbed directly through the stomach lining?

Accepted Answer

About 20%

Answer

Approximately 20% of alcohol is absorbed through the stomach, while the remaining 80% is absorbed through the small intestine.

Question 4

How does eating food before or during drinking affect alcohol absorption?

Accepted Answer

It slows the rate of alcohol absorption

Answer

Food in the stomach slows gastric emptying, which delays alcohol passing to the small intestine and slows absorption into the bloodstream.

Question 5

Which type of beverage is absorbed most rapidly into the bloodstream?

Accepted Answer

Carbonated or sparkling alcoholic beverages

Answer

Carbonation increases the rate at which alcohol moves from the stomach to the small intestine, accelerating absorption into the bloodstream.

Serving It Right Practice Test