Why do some people's face flush where others seem unaffected by the high quantity consumed?
The answer lies in our genes. If you are Asian, you will most likely flush more than those with European gene.
Let me simplify a complex process of the digestion of ethanol ( drinking alcohol) in our body. There are 2 main enzyme that digest the ethanol.
- Our stomach layer is lined with an enzyme that breaks down ethanol. It is called ADH ( alcohol dehydrogenase).
- Ethanol is oxidised by ADH so that our body can "digest" it but there is a by product called AL (acetyldehyde)
- AL ( acetyldehyde) causes flushing through the dilation of blood vessels and hence the "redness"
- People who lack an enzyme called ALDH (acetydehyde dehydrogenase) to breakdown the AL will experience more flushing
- ALDH should not be confused with ADH !ADH breaks down ethanol and ALDH breaks down acetyldehyde
Research has proven that a people with facial flushing indicates ALDH deficiency, and that an ALDH deficient drinker who drinks 2 beers per day has 6 to 10 times the risk of developing oesophageal cancer compared to those who are not.
The good news is that if your ancestors are good drinkers, the chances of you being a good drinker is high. Presence of the ALDH enzyme and the level in the body is determined by gene.
The bad news is if you flush easily...it is an indication that the body is asking you to slow down..so you will have to put down that glass even if you do not feel tipsy or drunk.
So bottom line, know your limits listen to your body. As cliche as it may sound, but drinking responsibly carries a whole new meaning..
It is not only about the problems created by drunk driving, but the possible cancer risk it poses on your body.
Reference
1.Theorell H, McKee JS (October 1961). "Mechanism of action of liver alcohol dehydrogen
2. Harada S, Agarwal DP, Goedde HW (1981) Aldehyde dehydrogenase deficiency as cause of facial flushing reaction to alcohol in Japanese. Lancet 2: 982
