Where does most alcohol absorption occur in the body?

Most alcohol absorption primarily occurs in the stomach and small intestine due to the efficient transport mechanisms present in these areas. When alcohol is consumed, a small percentage is absorbed in the oral cavity and esophagus; however, the majority is taken up when it reaches the stomach and small intestine.

In the stomach, alcohol travels through the gastric lining, where it can directly enter the bloodstream, although this absorption is limited. The small intestine, particularly the duodenum and jejunum, is where the majority of alcohol absorption takes place. The intestinal walls have a larger surface area with numerous blood vessels, allowing for rapid absorption into the bloodstream.

The liver plays a critical role in metabolizing alcohol once it has been absorbed but does not contribute to the absorption process itself. Similarly, the kidneys are not involved in alcohol absorption; they primarily function in the excretion of waste products and regulation of fluids. Therefore, the stomach and small intestine are the correct locations for where most alcohol absorption occurs.