JIST

Abstract

Chronic ethanol consumption is associated with increased incidence of a variety of illnesses. The precise mechanisms leading to alcohol related diseases are still imprecisely known. The metabolic effects of alcohol are due both to its direct action as well as to that of its first metabolite acetaldehyde, and can also be related to the changes in redox state. Ethanol increases the rate of generation of free radicals, decreases antioxidant levels, and potentiates oxidative stress. Cells are protected against oxidation by the action of certain enzymes, vitamins, and other substances, known collectively as antioxidants.