Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 31, 2026

Construction of Vapor Chambers Used to Expose Mice to Alcohol During the Equivalent of all Three Trimesters of Human Development
Published on: July 13, 2014
Effect of alcohol consumption on the gut
Rajkumar Rajendram1, Victor R Preedy
1Nutritional Sciences Research Division, School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, King's College London, London, UK. rajkumarrajendram@doctors.org.uk
Abstract:
Both acute and chronic alcohol consumption have severe effects on the structure and function of the entire gastrointestinal tract (GIT) which result in a vicious cycle. The healthy person who begins to drink heavily, first experiences the toxic effects of high concentrations of ethanol. Mucosal damage compromises the basic functions of the GIT. Suppression of the gastrointestinal immune system and increased transport of toxins across the mucosa result in increased susceptibility to infections. Inhibition of digestion, absorption and secretion cause diarrhea and reduce the transfer of nutrients to the rest of the body. As the individual becomes more dependent on alcohol, the functional reserve and regenerative capacity of the GIT are overwhelmed and malnutrition increases. The rate of progression of this cycle depends on several factors including nutritional intake. Whilst the clinical effects of alcohol are well recognized, more research is required to fully elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
More Related Videos
05:12Chronic Intermittent Ethanol Vapor Exposure Paired with Two-Bottle Choice to Model Alcohol Use Disorder
Published on: June 23, 2023
08:37Assessment of Glutamine as a Fuel Source for Alveolar Macrophages Exposed to Chronic Ethanol Using an Extracellular Flux Bioanalyzer
Published on: November 15, 2024
Related Concept Videos
Drug Absorption: Factors Affecting GI Absorption
In...
CNS Depressants: Alcohol and Nicotine
Factors Influencing Drug Absorption: Disease States and Pharmacology
Substances such as alcohol and specific drugs, including antineoplastics, can also negatively impact drug absorption. For instance,...
Functions of the Gut Microbiota
Dysbiosis of the Gut Microbiota
Gut-Brain Axis