How does the body metabolize alcohol?

The body primarily metabolizes alcohol through the liver. This organ plays a crucial role in breaking down alcohol into acetaldehyde, a toxic compound, before converting it into acetic acid, which can be easily eliminated from the body. The liver contains specific enzymes, such as alcohol dehydrogenase and aldehyde dehydrogenase, which facilitate these metabolic processes.

While some alcohol can be exhaled through the lungs, and a small amount may also be eliminated through the kidneys and stomach, these pathways are not the primary methods of alcohol metabolism. The liver's specialized function in alcohol metabolism is essential for regulating blood alcohol levels and ensuring that the body can safely eliminate alcohol and its byproducts. This understanding of alcohol metabolism is critical when discussing the effects of alcohol consumption and the potential risks associated with excessive intake.