Alcohol Info: Alcohol Tolerance?

Alcohol Tolerance?I was just wondering, is it possible to build up a tolerance to alcohol?

Answer by Bri R
Yes, over time.

Answer by pchiz
yes

Answer by Jonny
Alcohol tolerance refers to a decreased response to the effects of ethanol in alcoholic beverages. This reduced sensitivity requires that higher quantities of alcohol be consumed in order to achieve the same effects as before tolerance began to occur.
Laws establishing maximum blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels for legal operation of motor vehicles do not take into consideration alcohol tolerance. In one study, a group of alcoholics whose BAC was brought to .10, only 24% showed any clinical signs of impairment.
The alcohol tolerance is connected with activity of Alcohol dehydrogenases (a group of enzymes responsible for the breakdown of alcohol) in the liver, and in the bloodstream. High level of Alcohol dehydrogenase activity results in fast transformation of ethanol to more toxic acetaldehyde. Such atypical alcohol dehydrogenase is less frequent in alcoholics than in nonalcoholics. Furthermore, among alcoholics, the carriers of this atypical enzyme consume lower ethanol doses, compared to the individuals without the allele.
Some persons of South-East Asian and near-Eastern descent have a mutation in their alcohol dehydrogenase gene, making this enzyme more active.
Heavy alcohol consumption over a period of years can lead to "reverse tolerance." A liver can be damaged by alcohol abuse leading to a buildup of fat and scar tissue. The reduced ability of such a liver to metabolize or break down alcohol means that small amounts can lead to a high BAC and resulting intoxication.

Answer by torskie
It seems so to me.

TOlerance is really related to weight. More weight, more dillution of alcohol in your blood.

Also related to what you drink (and how much) of course. Beer is about 6%, wine is about 11% and hard liquor can go much higher.

Answer by Porterhouse
Yes, lots of practice will build tolerance. Sometimes its nice to be able to hold a lot of liquor, much more economical if you get a nice buzz off of a few drinks. Enjoy in moderation.

What do you think? Answer below! Find out the facts about the effects of alcohol on the body, how to spot the signs of addiction and where to seek advice and support.

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