Factors that Affect Intoxication

There are many different factors that can affect how alcohol is absorbed and metabolized.

	Altitude: At high altitudes, alcohol effects are almost two times as strong until the person becomes used to the elevation.
	Carbonation: Carbonated (fizzy) drinks increase the rate of alcohol absorption.
	Dehydration: Being dehydrated can make your liver less efficient at processing alcohol.
	Fatigue: Similar to dehydration, fatigue makes your liver less efficient at processing alcohol.
	Food content in the stomach: Having food in your stomach can help slow the absorption of alcohol and rate of intoxication.
	Mood: Emotions, such as stress, can change your stomach enzymes and affect how your body processes alcohol.
	Sex: Women tend to experience the effects of alcohol quicker and longer than men.
	Tolerance: The body's ability to adapt to the effects of alcohol. Some people have a naturally high tolerance while others may develop high tolerance through habitual drinking.
	Use of other medication/drugs: Some medications or drugs can have dangerous side effects when combined with alcohol, ranging from discomfort to life-threatening reactions.
	Weight: Generally, the less you weigh, the more you may be affected by alcohol.