Printer FriendlyAlcohol
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Images of people drinking alcohol are everywhere — on TV, in the movies, on billboards, in magazines. However, it’s important to remember that alcohol is a drug and can cause serious health problems. Learn the facts about alcohol and keep yourself safe!
What is alcohol?
The scientific terms for the alcohol that people drink are “ethyl alcohol” or “ethanol”. Alcohol is produced by a process called fermentation, and is found in beer, liquor, and wine. There are other types of alcohol as well, many of which can lead to severe sickness or even death. They’re found in cleaning products, rubbing alcohol, some medications, antifreeze, or in fuel, and are not for drinking.
How much alcohol is in a drink?
It depends on the drink. You might think that because a shot glass is small, there’s less alcohol than in a bottle of beer, but that’s not true. In fact, a shot glass can hold the same amount of alcohol as bottle of beer or a glass of wine. A standard drink is considered 0.6 ounces of pure alcohol.
The same amount of alcohol is in:
- 12 ounces of beer
- 5 ounces of wine
- 8 ounces of malt liquor
- 1.5 ounces (a shot) of 80-proof distilled spirits or liquor
Why do people drink alcohol?
People have been drinking alcohol for thousands of years. Drinking has become a part of many cultures and religious celebrations, and some people enjoy the taste or the way it makes them feel.
However, there are times when people drink alcohol for the wrong reasons. Some of these reasons include:
- It seems like “everyone else is doing it”
- Being pressured by friends, classmates, or older siblings
- Avoiding dealing with feelings of loneliness, anxiety, or depression
- Feeling more social or outgoing at parties
Next: Alcohol, Your Body, and Your Brain |
Updated: 8/8/2011
