SmartServe Ontario Practice Exam

What remains true about alcohol absorption and metabolism?

1. Absorption is slower than metabolism.

2. Metabolism is faster than absorption.

3. Both processes occur at the same rate.

4. Absorption is faster than metabolism.

The correct answer is: Absorption is faster than metabolism.

Alcohol absorption occurs rapidly in the body, primarily in the stomach and small intestine. Once consumed, it can enter the bloodstream within minutes, with peak blood alcohol concentration typically reached within about 30 to 90 minutes after ingestion, depending on various factors like the presence of food and the type of beverage consumed. Metabolism, primarily occurring in the liver, is the process by which the body breaks down alcohol. This process takes longer than absorption since the liver can metabolize alcohol at a relatively constant rate, typically around one standard drink per hour. Given this information, it is evident that absorption happens faster than the body can metabolize the alcohol, leading to an increase in blood alcohol concentration until the metabolism catches up. This understanding clarifies why stating that absorption is faster than metabolism is accurate. The metabolism process, while crucial for eliminating alcohol from the system, does not keep pace with how quickly alcohol enters the bloodstream after drinking.