What is the process called when alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream?

The process of absorbing alcohol into the bloodstream is referred to as absorption. This occurs primarily in the stomach and small intestine after alcohol is consumed. During absorption, alcohol passes through the stomach lining and into the bloodstream, where it can then be distributed throughout the body. This is a crucial aspect to understand because it highlights how quickly alcohol can affect the body and brain, impacting an individual's behavior and impairing judgement.

Metabolism refers to the body's process of breaking down alcohol after it has been absorbed, which is crucial for eliminating alcohol from the system, but it does not describe the initial entry into the bloodstream. Distribution involves the movement of absorbed alcohol throughout the body, affecting different organs and systems, but it does not pertain specifically to the absorption phase. Excretion is the process of eliminating alcohol from the body, typically through urine and breath, and comes into play after the alcohol has been metabolized.