Final answer:
The statement that alcohol is metabolized slower than it is absorbed, leading to increased BAC until metabolized, is true. The metabolism occurs consistently and is limited by enzymatic processes, and only time allows for a decrease in BAC.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'Alcohol is metabolized more slowly than it is absorbed, therefore each drink consumed will increase the blood alcohol concentration until the body is able to get rid of it' is true. Once alcohol is ingested, it is absorbed into the bloodstream and its concentration will continue to rise until the metabolic processes of the body, primarily occurring in the liver, can eliminate it. The rate of alcohol metabolism can vary from person to person, with factors like gender affecting the speed at which alcohol is processed. Women generally metabolize alcohol slower than men. However, once absorption has occurred, the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) will only decrease as the liver metabolizes the alcohol.
When a person consumes alcohol, it is swiftly absorbed into the blood, and the metabolism of alcohol in the liver commences, converting alcohol to acetaldehyde and subsequently into other less harmful substances. This metabolic process is consistent and does not speed up with higher amounts of consumed alcohol because it is limited by the amount of the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase present in the liver. So, despite continued consumption, it will take time for the BAC to lower, often leading to increased intoxication levels if consumption outpaces metabolism.
It is important to understand that behaviors such as drinking coffee or cold showers do not accelerate this process. Acute alcohol intoxication can occur with higher BAC levels, leading to various impairments and even life-threatening conditions at very high BACs. The only effective way to lower BAC is to give time for the alcohol to be fully metabolized, for which the rate is roughly 15 mg/dL per hour on average.