What percentage of alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream through the mouth, throat, and stomach?

The absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream begins almost immediately upon consumption, and this occurs through the lining of the mouth, throat, and stomach. Approximately 20% of alcohol is absorbed in these areas before it moves into the small intestine, where the majority of absorption occurs.

This percentage reflects how readily alcohol is absorbed through these tissues. The mouth and throat have a significant blood supply, which facilitates the immediate absorption of some alcohol. However, the stomach also plays a critical role, as alcohol can be absorbed through the stomach lining. Although the small intestine is responsible for the majority of alcohol absorption due to its increased surface area and blood flow, the initial absorption process that occurs in the mouth, throat, and stomach is crucial to understanding the overall kinetics of alcohol consumption.

Knowing that approximately 20% of alcohol is absorbed in this early phase helps frame why it is essential to understand the effects of alcohol consumption on the body and the potential for intoxication, based on how quickly alcohol enters the bloodstream.