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Alcohol, or more specifically ethanol has been consumed for hundreds of years, and is
both a nutrient and a drug to humans. This is because it contains 7 calories per gram,
but also has psychoactive effects.
When consumed, alcohol passes through cell membranes and makes it more permeable. In
order to return the membrane to its optimum permeability, the liver releases LDL cholesterol
which reduces permeability. This means that regular alcohol consumption can cause permanent
raised LDL levels.
Ethanol is metabolised into Acetaldehyde by the liver. The liver can metabolise it into
acetic acid, but if the liver gets saturated with Acetaldehyde, it will leak into the blood
stream. Here it can cause oxidative stress on the body and inhibit enzymes in the brain.
Acetaldehyde is the primary cause of hang overs.
Traditionally brewed beer does contain some b vitamins, but as ethanol inhibits the absorbion
of these the benefits are questionable.
Red wine contains a polyphenol called resveratrol, which is a powerful antioxidant and helps
improve cardiovascular health, this is the only real benefit of alcohol.
For more information on alcohol please visit the link in the description