Alcohol is the result of a fermentation process of starches, sugar, and yeast. Alcohol can be found in beverages like beer, wine, and liquor (per Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Alcohol has a far-reaching effect on the body and can impact most organs, since it enters the bloodstream via the stomach and small intestine and is then able to circulate around the body. It is a central nervous system depressant that slows the pace of your brain activity, per MedlinePlus. Since alcohol is processed in the liver, excessive alcohol use can negatively impact liver health. Alcohol use can also increase the risk of mouth or throat cancer.
While everyone has different levels of tolerance for alcohol, drinking it can lead to feelings of intoxication. As you get drunk, your blood vessels start to dilate, which can give you a false sense of feeling warm, even though you are actually losing body heat. Alcohol's affect on the brain can also lead to loss of motor skills, slurred speech, slower reaction time, and bad decision-making.
