Health Impact of Alcohol

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary terms and definitions related to the health impacts and effects of alcohol as discussed in the lecture.

Ethanol

A type of alcohol commonly found in beverages; it is considered more like a drug than a nutrient due to its effects on the body.

Polyuria

Frequent urination, which can be an immediate effect of alcohol consumption due to its suppression of the antidiuretic hormone.

Antidiuretic hormone

A hormone that helps regulate water retention in the body; alcohol consumption can suppress its activity, leading to increased urination.

Metabolism

The process by which the body converts substances, including alcohol, into energy and breaks them down for elimination.

Blood alcohol concentration (BAC)

The legal limit of alcohol in the bloodstream; factors such as body size and sex influence how alcohol affects BAC.

Moderate drinking

Defined as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.

Heavy drinking

Consumption that exceeds moderate limits, defined as more than three drinks on one occasion for women and more than four for men.

Fetal alcohol syndrome

A permanent condition resulting from alcohol consumption during pregnancy, causing physical and mental abnormalities in the baby.

Acute respiratory failure

A serious medical condition that can occur due to excessive alcohol consumption, leading to death in severe cases.

Good cholesterol (HDL)

A type of cholesterol that is considered beneficial for heart health; can be slightly increased through moderate alcohol consumption but is more effectively raised through exercise.