Alcohol affects neurotransmitters, which are responsible for feelings and emotions. Genetics, lifestyle, and experiences can influence neurotransmitters and alcohol sensitivity. The four most affected neurotransmitters are dopamine, GABA, endorphins, and glutamate. Alcohol can increase or decrease levels of these substances, causing different reactions in individuals.
Neurotransmitters are tiny particles responsible for many feelings and emotions associated with a person’s behavior. These chemical messengers can be influenced by many things, including genetics, lifestyle, or particular experiences happening at any given time. Furthermore, there is a link between neurotransmitters and alcohol, among other substances. Alcohol can raise and lower levels of specific neurotransmitters, acting to either elevate or depress mood in a way specific to the person and situation.
Some people may be more or less genetically inclined to experience the effects of neurotransmitters and alcohol. There has also been evidence through scientific research that alcohol addiction and addiction are strongly linked to genetics. Four levels of primary neurotransmitters, along with individual sensitivity to alcohol, contribute to its effects.
The brain can be thought of as a collection of billions of miniature parts known as neurons. These cells can “talk” to each other across tiny spaces known as synapses. If the synapse were a telephone, the neurotransmitters are the words that are exchanged. Just as saying something nice or saying something mean can cause different reactions in the person on the other end of the phone line, neurotransmitters can cause different reactions. The height of these levels is the driving force behind reactions, and alcohol changes these levels.
The four neurotransmitters most susceptible to the influence of alcohol are dopamine, GABA, endorphins and glutamate. Neurotransmitters and alcohol are linked most directly through alcohol’s effect on the levels of these substances. Sometimes the levels rise, other times the receptive properties of the organism are altered, increasing sensitivity.
Endorphins are the “happy” neurotransmitters, which can elicit feelings of euphoria in those who experience their ride. GABA is an acronym that describes the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid. Dopamine is a vital chemical responsible for other good vibes sensations. Glutamate is involved in many cognitive tasks, such as speech and coordination.
When someone ingests alcohol, a number of immediate chemical changes occur in the nervous system. Increased GABA sensitivity can cause a decrease in anxiety and a feeling of calmness. Endorphin levels are also known to increase when people consume alcohol. Dopamine, similar to other neurotransmitters, is also directly related to alcohol concentration. Glutamate, which can help someone perform motor activities, is inhibited during alcohol consumption and can cause an impairment in the ability to perform basic tasks otherwise taken for granted.
The fact that the relationship between neurotransmitters and alcohol can lead to so many changes explains why a complete reaction cannot be predicted. Sometimes, one person can be a delightful host, while other times, alcohol can cause a violent nightmare. Understanding how the brain and body react to substances can shed light on the subject of substance use.
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