Alcohol is a colorless, flammable liquid that is produced by the natural fermentation of sugars and is the intoxicating part of wine, beer, spirits, and other drinks.
Alcohol is a sedative. It slows down the body's systems and interferes with the brain’s communication pathways, and can affect the way the brain works. These disruptions can change mood and behavior, and make it harder to think clearly and move with coordination. As the amount of alcohol one drinks increases, so does the level of impairment. Tolerance develops when one drinks more often, and needs to drink more in quantity, to feel the same effects.
Alcohol use can be risky, whether or not someone has developed an addiction (substance use disorder). The reason some are more affected by a certain amount of alcohol while others are less affected is unknown. The sedative effect of alcohol in the brain can cause bodily systems to shut down, and in extreme cases of alcohol poisoning, death can result. Substance use disorders develop when the brain is exposed to an amount of a drug, in this case alcohol, that causes structural and chemical changes to occur in the brain. There is no way to know how much alcohol may cause the development of an addiction in any one person, and it is different for different people. The structural and chemical changes that occur in the brain cause the pleasure-seeking part of the brain to override the rest. This is why people with an alcohol use disorder feel compelled to use more, even if it causes harm.
Nicknames include juice, sauce, booze, hooch, suds, vino, liquid courage and moonshine. Individual brands may also have related nicknames that are not listed here.
Reach Your Potential
Recovery is possible
Recovery is a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential. And it's possible for everyone.
Yes and no. Mayo Clinic doctors do not encourage anyone to start drinking alcohol. Especially if there is a family history of alcohol use disorders. Staying within the low-risk guidelines is key. Red wine studies are often not clear on which parts of the wine may have positive impacts on heart health. For people who don't drink, adding alcohol to the equation does not improve health(1). It can increase risk of physical problems.
Why do some people react differently to alcohol than others?
Alcohol affects people in different ways. Many factors influence the effects of drinking alcohol. These factors include:
Age.
Sex and gender.
Race and ethnicity.
Fitness level.
Weight.
Medications.
Other factors include if you have eaten and pace of alcohol consumption. Another factor is family history of alcohol problems. It is important to be realistic about your alcohol consumption and how it is impacting your life.
Everything drinks too much — is it really a big deal?
This is a common misperception. According to one survey, 43 percent of Iowans did not drink at all in the last 30 days2. Those reporting binge drinking made up 20.1 percent. This number is higher than the national average. This places Iowa in the highest category of binge drinking in the U.S.3.
To reduce the risk of alcohol misuse, you can4:
Choose not to drink alcohol.
Choose to drink in moderation by limiting intake to two drinks or less in a day for men or one drink or less in a day for women.
Individuals who do not drink alcohol, don't feel like you have to drink. If you are of legal drinking age, drinking less is better for your health than drinking more.
Use the Your Life Iowa drink calculator to see how much alcohol is in different types of standard drinks.
If you're concerned about your or a loved one's alcohol consumption, Your Life Iowa can help. We provide a listening ear and help you identify positive coping skills. We will connect you with resources for ongoing support in your area.
Alcohol Use and Your Health (CDC) This Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website link provides helpful information about alcohol use, excessive alcohol use and your health.
Check Your Drinking (CDC) This Centers for Disease Control and Prevention tool can be used to check your alcohol use and help you make a plan to drink less.
Rethinking Drinking (NIAAA) This NIAAA website provides information and tips. Many people enjoy a drink now and then when socializing with friends and family. Knowing your personal drinking pattern can help you understand if alcohol will affect your health.
Alcohol Use and Misuse: What You Should Know (Mental Health America) Drinking alcoholic beverages is often seen as a way to relax, socialize or celebrate, but drinking too much or drinking as a way of dealing with feelings of anxiety or depression has negative consequences.
Alcohol overdose or poisoning basics College Drinking webpage on health information, risks and what to do when someone experiences an alcohol overdose.
Adult Children of Alcoholics literature Adult Children of Alcoholics World Service Organization website with literature, meeting information, resources and more.
Medications for Substance Use Disorders SAMHSA webpage with information on how medications can be used to treat substance use disorders, sustain recovery and prevent overdose.
Faces & Voices of Recovery Website for organization that aims to "Chang(e) the way addiction and recovery are understood and embraced through advocacy, education and leadership."
NIAAA Alcohol Treatment Navigator National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism website with resources for identifying problem alcohol use and finding treatment options in your area.
If you think you or a loved one may have a problem with alcohol use, drug use, gambling, or their mental health, reach out to Your Life Iowa for free, confidential support.
