Alcohol and its effects
Alcohol is often seen as the life and soul of the party, the magic brew that can make you more sociable and funny and less shy and inhibited. However, although
drinking alcohol is regarded as socially acceptable, remember that it is still a drug and like all drugs it can be dangerous, especially when used in excess.
For example, did you know that 30% of general hospital admissions in South Africa have a direct or indirect link to alcohol use, according to the latest research? It is
also interesting to note that the long-term use of alcohol has an effect on every organ in your body, including your brain.
What is alcohol?
Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant. The intoxicating ingredient in
beer, wine and spirits is known as ethyl alcohol (ethanol), which is produced by
combining yeast, sugar and starches.
How does your body consume alcohol?
• 95% is consumed by the body through the liver.
• 5% is removed through breath, urine and perspiration.
• In South Africa, one standard alcoholic beverage is 12 grams, which is
different from other countries.
• It takes the body a hour to process one standard alcohol beverage of 12
grams.
How much alcohol is there in a standard drink?
• Malt Beer 340ml: 5% alcohol per 12 grams of alcohol
• Cider 340ml: 6 % alcohol per 16 grams of alcohol
• Brandy/Whiskey/Gin/Vodka/Cane 25ml: 11 grams of alcohol
• Glass of wine 120ml: 11 grams of alcohol
What are some of the effects of long-term, excessive alcohol use?
• Dependency on alcohol
• Liver disease
• Increased cancer risk
• Unintentional injuries like those from motor vehicle accidents
• Social problems such as low productivity, family problems and violence
• Cardiovascular problems (heart and vein problems), including hypertension,
heart attacks, etc.
• Psychiatric problems, for example depression, anxiety and suicide
• Gastrointestinal problems, pancreatitis and gastritis.
Can I reduce my alcohol levels?
Your alcohol levels can only be reduced over time, as your liver needs to
processes the alcohol before it gets out of your system. However, there is a
common misconception that doing the following can reduce alcohol levels in
your body:
• Drinking many cups of coffee
• Taking a cold shower
• Going for a swim
• Going to the toilet
None of the above so-called ‘remedies’ can remove alcohol from your body. Therefore, ensure that you do not consume excessive amounts of alcohol before driving
or before you have something important scheduled, like a big presentation or a critical meeting. Also bear in mind that you can feel the effects of alcohol a day or two
after drinking, which usually involve a headache and feelings of nausea, dehydration and tiredness. This is known as a hangover.
Where can I get help?
If you are worried about your alcohol consumption or that of your colleagues, friends or family then consider contacting:
• Your Human Resources Department
• The South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA): 086 147 2622
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