Alcohol is a ubiquitous part of many cultures and social gatherings. But it is also a substance that can deeply affect the human body. And it stays in your system longer than you think.
Understanding alcohol’s journey through the body is crucial to understanding the impacts it can have on your health and making informed decisions. So, let’s delve into exactly how the human body processes and eliminates alcohol, as well as the effects that alcohol detox can have.
How does your body metabolize alcohol?
Let’s start by examining what exactly happens when your body metabolizes alcohol.
Alcohol is processed primarily by liver enzymes, primarily alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH). ADH breaks down alcohol into acetaldehyde.a toxic compound that is soon converted into a less harmful byproduct called acetate.
From there, the acetate breaks down into carbon dioxide and water, which the body eventually expels. This metabolization process helps keep the level of alcohol in the blood, known as blood alcohol concentration (BAC), under control.
Read more: What happens to your brain when you stop drinking?
How long does alcohol stay in the blood?
The body metabolizes alcohol at a fairly constant rate. On average, a healthy human liver can process one standard drink per hour. However, this can vary drastically depending on factors such as age, weight, gender, and general health.
A standard drink, in the United States, typically contains about 14 grams of pure alcohol, which is equivalent to 12 ounces of regular beer, 5 ounces of wine or 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits. In general, a blood test can detect alcohol in your system. for approximately 12 hours after drinking.
Read more: How much alcohol is too much?
How long does alcohol stay in urine?
The presence of alcohol in the urine can last longer than in the blood. Alcohol can usually be found in urine for up to 12 to 24 hours after your last drink. However, advanced testing methods, such as ethyl glucuronide (EtG) urine testIt can detect traces of alcohol even up to 72 hours or more after the last drink.
The amount of time that alcohol is detectable in urine can be influenced by the amount and type of alcohol consumed, individual metabolic rates, and the sensitivity of the test used.
Read more: Discovering the truth about alcohol: is it really that bad for you?
How long does it take to detox from alcohol?
Alcohol detox is a process that can vary greatly between individuals. The detox process refers to the time it takes for all the alcohol in your system to be metabolized and for the body to return to normal functioning. This can take anywhere from a few days to weeks, depending on the amount of alcohol consumed, the duration of consumption, individual health, and whether the person has developed alcohol dependence.
During detox, some people may also experience withdrawal symptoms. These can begin as soon as a few hours after the last drink and lasts weeks. The severity of withdrawal also depends on many factors, including the duration and intensity of prolonged alcohol consumption.
Common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal include:
Headache
Perspiration
Tremors or shaking
Nausea and vomiting
Anxiety
Agitation
Fast heart rate
heart palpitations
Hypertension
Insomnia
hallucinations
But remember, heavy drinkers or those dependent on alcohol should seek professional advice first. quit alcohol cold turkeyas alcohol withdrawal can sometimes lead to violent seizures, delirium tremens (DTs), and even death.
Read more: Even drinking in moderation is not good for your health
How long does alcohol withdrawal last?
Alcohol withdrawal can be a challenging phase, and its duration and severity vary from person to person. Symptoms usually peak within the first 24 to 48 hours and can range from mild anxiety and tremors to serious complications such as seizures and delirium tremens (DT). The acute withdrawal phase lasts about a week, but some symptoms, such as sleep disturbances and emotional fluctuations, can persist for months.
It is essential to understand that alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous and, in some cases, life-threatening. Medical supervision is highly recommended during the detox phase, especially for those who have drunk heavily or have a history of severe withdrawal symptoms.
Read more: What are the short and long term effects of alcohol on the brain?
How to stop drinking
Quitting drinking is a substantial life change and can be an especially daunting task. However, with the right combination of personal commitment, support, and often professional help, is it possible to stop drinking.
Although everyone is different, here are some common steps to consider when planning to stop drinking alcohol.
1. Set clear goals
Decide what “quitting drinking” means to you, whether it’s complete abstinence or a reduction to a healthier level.
2. Seek support
This may come from friends, family, support groups, or professional counselors.
3. Consider professional help
Detoxification under medical supervision can provide safety and comfort. Rehabilitation programs and therapy can also be invaluable resources.
4. Prepare for withdrawal
Be aware of withdrawal symptoms and have a plan to manage them. This could involve medical assistance, support from loved ones, or strategies to control cravings.
5. Develop new habits
Replacing drinking with healthy activities or hobbies can be beneficial. It also helps avoid or distract you from triggers that prompt you to drink.
6. Be patient and kind to yourself
Recovery is a journey with ups and downs, so patience and self-compassion are key.
Understanding how long it takes for alcohol to leave your body is essential to making informed decisions about alcohol consumption and its impact on your health and life. Everyone’s body responds differently to alcohol, so if you are informed and aware of the specific effects alcohol has on you, you will be able to make healthier choices for your well-being.
Read more: What is Alcoholics Anonymous and how effective is it?
