Features

• Alcohol is not digested, but rather oxidized in the liver. Alcohol passes through the stomach into the small intestine, then into the bloodstream. Even small doses can cause physical and mental impairment.
  
  

Types

• There are three basic types of alcoholic beverages, which include beer, wine and liquor. These beverages are made from fermented products such as grain or fruits. The percentage of alcohol content varies according to the product.
  
  

Function

• Besides making you feel good and giving you a hangover the next day, alcohol affects the body and mind in various ways. Alcohol slows down brain function. It alters your perception and enhances emotional states, such as increased aggression or depression. It slows reflexes and reaction time. Alcohol also affects judgment, coordination and motor skills.
  
  

Alcohol and Pregnancy

• Consuming alcohol when pregnant can have several adverse effects on the unborn fetus. Drinking alcohol while pregnant can cause miscarriage or premature birth. There is also a risk that the fetus may be born with birth defects such as mental retardation. Women who are pregnant or are trying to conceive should abstain from drinking alcohol. Even small amounts can be detrimental to an unborn child.
  
  

Statistics

• According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services more than 2 million Americans suffer from alcohol-related liver disease. The Alcohol Drug Reference Guide states that 80 percent of violent crimes occur under the influence of alcohol. According to AlcoholScreening.org one 12-ounce beer has about as much alcohol as a 1.5 ounce shot of liquor.
  
  

Warning

• Alcohol is easily abused and many people eventually end up suffering from alcoholism. Alcohol abuse increases risk of accident or injury. Many people die needlessly each year due to motor vehicle accidents involving drivers under the influence of alcohol. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to health conditions such as cirrhosis of the liver, brain damage, memory loss and ulcers. It also increases the risk of stroke and heart disease.