In this video, Jonathan from the Institute of Human Anatomy explores the physiological reality of alcohol consumption, breaking down how ethanol interacts with your internal organs from the first sip to the morning after. Using cadaver dissections, we examine the stomach lining, the hepatic portal system of the liver, and the delicate structures of the brain to show exactly why new health guidelines are shifting. Whether you are curious about "Dry January" or want to understand the long-term impact on your DNA and cancer risk, we provide the anatomical proof you need to make informed decisions about your health.
Table of Contents
0:00 - Intro
1:07 - Ethanol Absorption: Stomach vs. Small Intestine
2:36 - The Liver’s Detox Process: Enzymes & Toxic Byproducts
5:50 - Alcohol in the Brain: Frontal Cortex & Cerebellum Disruption
7:03 - Why Alcohol Makes You Pee: Pituitary Gland & ADH Suppression
7:36 - Overdose & The Medulla Oblongata: Vital Life Risks
8:23 - Systemic Damage: Heart, Pancreas & Stomach Ulcers
11:00 - Advanced Metabolism: Free Radicals & Liver Cirrhosis
13:51 - What Happens When You Quit? One Month vs. Forever
15:55 - New 2026 Guidelines: Is There a Safe Amount?
Common Questions
What happens to your body during Dry January?
Research shows that even one month alcohol-free can improve sleep, normalize liver enzymes, and lead to moderate weight loss.
How does alcohol reach the brain so fast?
Alcohol freely crosses the blood-brain barrier, where it suppresses regions like the prefrontal cortex (judgment) and the cerebellum (balance).
Why is acetaldehyde so dangerous?
Acetaldehyde is a byproduct of alcohol metabolism that is significantly more toxic than ethanol itself, causing cellular damage and hangovers.
A
re the safety guidelines for alcohol changing?
Yes; 2026 dietary updates emphasize that "less is better," as no level of consumption is considered completely safe for optimal health.
