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Many know that it takes time for the body to detoxify alcohol. At the end of the day, alcohol is a substance that must go through the liver to be broken down. However, how quickly your body is able to do this depends on various factors—like body weight, genetics, age, how much alcohol was consumed, and the amount of food you ate.
So, let’s explore this question more: How long does alcohol stay in your system? How does the body process alcohol?
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How Long Does a Unit of Alcohol Take to Leave the Body?
One unit of alcohol refers to a single shot, which equates to about half a beer or a very small glass of wine. On average, it takes about one hour for one unit of alcohol to be processed within the body1.
But, again, this depends on various factors, as previously mentioned, including:
- Genetics
- Age
- Body weight
- How much food you ate
- Liver function
- Sex (Women typically metabolize alcohol slower than men.)
Within the body, blood alcohol content (BAC) is measured by the grams (or milligrams) of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood and is commonly expressed as a percentage2.
In terms of how long alcohol stays in the body’s system, this substance usually stays in the body for six to 72 hours3. However, detection levels depend on the exact test being used. Most tests can measure alcohol in the:
- Blood: 12 hours afterward
- Breath: 12-24 hours afterward
- Urine: 12-72 hours afterward
- Saliva: 12 hours afterward
- Hair: 90 days afterward
Learn more about alcohol withdrawal
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How is Alcohol Eliminated From the Body?
Alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream via the stomach and upper intestines4. Through the blood, it travels to the brain—producing its depressant effects on your nervous system. However, it’s worth noting that having food in your stomach or upper digestive tract slows this absorption process, which may dim the effects.
Signs of intoxication include5:
- Slurred speech
- Impaired coordination
- Memory issues
- Confusion
- Trouble focusing
- Impaired judgment
- Reduced self-control
After producing such effects, alcohol continues to circulate in the blood, where the majority of it makes its way to the liver. Most alcohol is broken down and eliminated via this detoxification organ. But, again, the liver can only process about one drink per hour—about 15-25 milligrams6. This is why alcohol builds up in the blood with the more you drink.
Enzymes in the liver work to convert alcohol into acetaldehyde7 (a toxic byproduct), which is then quickly converted into acetic acid and eventually into water and carbon dioxide. From here, it’s eliminated through your kidneys (urine) and your breath (which is why breathalyzers can detect alcohol).
Can Drinking Water or Coffee Help?
Unfortunately, water, coffee, or even a shower won’t speed up the breakdown and elimination of alcohol in the body8. However, these might help combat the symptoms of a hangover by helping you become more alert and rehydrating you, which supports kidney function. But it’s important to know that these won’t impact your BAC.
In other words, coffee, in particular, may provide a false sense of sobriety, but this is far from the truth.
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What is Alcohol Poisoning?
Too much alcohol can be fatal9. Life-threatening doses are frequently referred to as “alcohol poisoning.”10 This means the amount of alcohol consumed is causing dysfunction and depression of life-supporting functions like breathing and heart rate. While a BAC of 0.16% to 0.30% creates significant impairments and may cause vomiting, a BAC of about 0.31% to 0.45% is often life-threatening.
This risk greatly increases with binge drinking or chronic drinking—which is defined as five drinks in two hours for men and four drinks in two hours for women.
Overdosing on alcohol can also occur when it’s combined with other substances, such as opioids or sedatives. Since these drugs also suppress vital life functions, they can amplify these effects, which can be fatal.
If you’re concerned someone has overdosed on alcohol, it’s important to call 911 and get them emergency care as soon as possible. Alcohol poisoning is a medical emergency.
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Treating an Alcohol Addiction
If you’re struggling to break the cycle of excessive alcohol addiction, know help is available and recovery is possible. At Freedom Recovery Centers (FRC), our caring and compassionate team is here to help you get back on track. Our in-patient and out-patient programs include:
- Detoxification: Our team is by your side throughout your initial detox. Our medical staff offers 24/7 support, ensuring your safety every step of the way.
- Therapy: From CBT to DBT and more, you’ll work one-on-one with our counselors to untangle the root causes of your addiction and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
- Holistic Approaches: While we emphasize evidence-based approaches, we know addiction goes beyond this. This is why we provide meditation, breathwork, acupuncture, and more!
- Aftercare: Before you leave your program, we’ll provide referrals to counselors and support groups, as well as ensure you have relapse preventative strategies at your disposal.
Ready to reclaim your life and break-free from alcohol addiction? Call us at 804-635-3746 or fill out our online form. A member of our team is ready to answer your call when you’re ready.
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