ALCOHOL
WHAT IS IT? Ethanol comes from the fermentation of carbohydrates.
Different sources of alcohol
Alcohol Digestion Absorption Digestion Very little in mouth 10% in stomach 90% duodenum Takes 1 minute to reach brain Digestion Most completely digested nutrient Straight from intestines to portal vein
Alcohol Metabolism Alcohol Metabolism or Detoxification is conducted in the liver TOXIC! Ethanol ¸ Acetaldehyde ¸ Acetic Acid ¸ CO2 + Heat ù ù ù Alcohol Acetaldehyde Can be converted Dehydrogenase Dehydrogenase to Acetyl-CoA for use in TCA cycle
Nutritional Problems Unavailability of NAD (needed for TCA) Build up of NADH + H (promotes ketosis) Buildup of congeners Prevents oxidation of fat Acts as a “folate pump” Destroys or affects metabolism of Vitamins: B6, B1, B3, and minerals: K, CA and Zn Impairs intestinal and liver cells Dehydration
Other Problems Brain cell destruction and cognitive impairment Increase in esophageal, pancreatic, mouth and gastric cancers Can lower blood glucose in diabetics Increase accidents and STD’s Disrupts MEOS
Nutritional/Health Benefits Decreases LDL, increases HDL Provides antioxidants Decreases risk of stroke and Alzheimer’s Increases life expectancy Does not promote obesity
Odd Facts In the early 1900’s alcohol was a main ingredient for enteral feedings The bacteria in our colon produces about 40 grams of alcohol a day The yearly death rate associated with suicide is higher than that from all alcohol related diseases combined