Alcohol Hangover Symptoms, Causes And Effects

Over consumption of alcohol invariably results in a hangover; just how much alcohol is necessary to produce one depends on the biochemical individuality of the consumer, and the type of drink consumed. Distilled liquors, such as whiskey and gin, have a more immediate impact than wines or beers, and all alcohol is absorbed more quickly when mixed with a carbonated beverage. Once in the bloodstream, alcohol reaches the brain in minutes. At first it acts as a stimulant, producing euphoria. This soon gives way to central nervous system depression and feelings of numbness, and finally to sleep or unconsciousness.

Rapid ingestion of a large amount of alcohol can be fatal. The severity of a hangover is partially influenced by congeners, by-products of the fermentation process that contribute to the taste and aroma of an alcoholic beverage. The more congeners in a drink, the more severe a hangover may be. Brandy has the greatest number of congeners, followed by red wine, rum, whiskey, white wine, gin, and vodka.

Alcohol also interferes with the body's metabolism of various vitamins and minerals. Women at risk for breast cancer should moderate their consumption. It has been shown that those who consume alcohol daily have a higher risk of breast cancer than those who do not, The risk increases with amount of alcohol consumed.

Even a weekend of heavy drinking causes a buildup of fatty cells in the liver. While this organ has remarkable recuperative powers, continued use of alcohol can lead to permanent liver damage and problems with glucose metabolism, and eventually scarring, or cirrhosis.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_A._Robert