In the small intestine, alcohol blocks absorption of substances such as thiamin, folic acid, xylose, fat, vitamin B1, vitamin B12, and amino acids. Ninety-five percent of the alcohol taken into the body is absorbed into the bloodstream through the lining of the stomach and duodenum. Alcohol causes a slowing of the circulation systems and deprives tissues of oxygen. Alcohol also slows the ability of white blood cells to engulf and destroy bacteria and the clotting ability of blood platelets. Alcohol irritates the cells of the pancreas and can lead to acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis.
Pancreatitis can destroy the pancreas and create a lack of insulin.
This condition prevents bile from being properly filtered through the liver. Jaundice develops, turning the whites of the eyes and the skin yellow. In the kidneys alcohol causes an increased loss of fluids through its irritating effect. It also interferes with the ability of the male and female to climax during intercourse. The most dramatic and noticed effect alcohol has is on the brain.