Which statement lists the factors that influence how alcohol affects a person?

• A. Only body size and age.
• B. Body size, gender, amount and speed of drinking, and whether food is in the stomach.
• C. Only genetics and sleep.
• D. Only weather and time of day.

Answer: (B)

Alcohol’s effect on a person depends on factors that influence how much alcohol gets into the bloodstream and how quickly it’s processed. Body size matters because the same amount of alcohol is diluted in more body water in larger people, so their blood alcohol concentration tends to be lower. Gender also plays a role: on average, females have less body water and different enzyme activity, which can lead to higher and longer-lasting effects from the same amount of alcohol. The amount and speed of drinking determine how much alcohol enters the bloodstream before the liver can metabolize it, so drinking more or faster increases intoxication. Having food in the stomach slows absorption, so peak effects are reduced and delayed. The combination of these factors is why that statement best captures what influences how alcohol affects a person.