The effects of alcohol on the stomach can be severe, depending on the amount of alcohol consumed. People who drink large quantities of alcohol could be causing serious damage to their stomachs, much of which is irreversible.
Absorption
Twenty percent of alcohol is absorbed by the stomach, with the balance absorbed into the bloodstream.
Stomach Lining
Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol irritates the lining of the stomach, which delays alcohol absorption and prevents it from entering the small intestine.
Food Consumption
The American Diabetes Association states that blood alcohol level rises faster on an empty stomach, while water and fruit juice slows alcohol absorption.
Blood Vessels
Excess alcohol causes red blood cells to clump and then clog blood vessels that can sometimes break in the stomach, leading to hemorrhage and even death.
Stomach Acid
Drinking alcohol increases stomach acid, which leads to gastritis and intestinal ulcers.
Warm Alcohol v. Cold Alcohol
An article published by the Oregon Counseling center states that beer temperature affects absorption, with warmer alcohol absorbing faster than cold.
