Alcohol Reaches the Brain in Six Minutes

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Researchers have shown that alcohol really does go straight to the head. In fact, in only six minutes after consuming an amount of alcohol equivalent to two glasses of wine, your brain cells begin to undergo changes.

Researchers discovered that upon the consumption of alcohol, the brain processes an alcohol breakdown product for energy instead of using glucose. This can have harmful effects as it results in lowering the concentration of substances which are used to protect the brain.

So what does this mean for those who drink alcohol in moderation? According to researcher Dr. Armin Biller, "shifts in brain metabolites after moderate consumption of alcohol by healthy persons are completely reversible." He also warns however that permanent brain damage can occur as a result of consuming large quantities of alcohol, as is seen with alcoholics. Additionally, studies were also conducted on how alcohol hangover effects the brain.

Learn more about this study, see:

• From The Glass To The Brain In Six Minutes (Science Daily)