Alcohol Awareness Month: Alcohol Basics

 

During the first week of Alcohol Awareness Month, we are sharing some basic facts about Alcohol. Each Wednesday during April, we will build on our knowledge of this substance with more facts and information. 

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant containing ethyl alcohol or ethanol. Ethanol is the intoxicating ingredient in beer, wine, and liquor. It is produced by the fermentation of yeast, sugars, and starches. Its color and packaging vary widely.

What constitutes a Drink? Beer, wine, and liquor all contain different amounts of alcohol and each drink’s amount varies:

* 12 ounces of beer (5% alcohol)
* 8 ounces of malt liquor (7% alcohol)
* 5 ounces of wine (12% alcohol)
* 1.5 ounces or a "shot" of 80-proof spirits or liquor (40% alcohol)

Alcohol Slang terms include: booze, brew, juice, sauce. Some usually non-alcoholic beverages, like seltzer or fruit juice, are also sold in “spiked” versions in brands such as White Claw, TRULY. It’s always a good idea to read the labels on beverages you drink.

Binge Drinking, or consuming large quantities of alcohol in a short period of time, is common among young people. Having 4-5 drinks in one occasion can lead to poor decision making, blackouts, alcohol poisoning, and even death.

Bad for the Brain - science shows that a young person’s brain is not fully developed until their mid- to late 20s. Drinking while the brain is still developing can be very harmful. Drinking at any age not only impairs judgment and coordination, it can also increase incidence of aggression, violence, or even more dangerous situations. Best way to stay healthy and safe is not to drink at all.

Partnership to End Addiction offer a FREE Guide for Families to break down the risks of underage drinking, why it appeals to young people, and what you can do to protect from its harms at https://drugfree.org/drugs/alcohol/