1. ALCOHOL

2. WHAT IS IT?
Ethanol comes from the fermentation of carbohydrates.

3. Different sources of alcohol

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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

8. Nutritional/Health Benefits
Decreases LDL, increases HDL
Provides antioxidants
Decreases risk of stroke and Alzheimer’s
Increases life expectancy
Does not promote obesity

9. 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