Free tool · RTO 45742
How alcohol affects the body
From the brain to the bones, alcohol reaches almost every part of the body. Tap a body part to see what happens after one night, and what happens over years.
There is no safe level of alcohol
Alcohol is a toxin. The body converts it to acetaldehyde, a chemical that damages cells and DNA, before breaking it down further. Every organ that alcohol reaches is affected to some degree, and the risk of harm rises with every extra drink. The Australian Alcohol Guidelines (NHMRC) are designed to keep that risk low, not to remove it.
10 a weekNo more than 10 standard drinks in any week.
4 a dayNo more than 4 standard drinks on any one day.
Some people are at greater risk of harm and should drink less, or not at all:
- anyone under 18, and young adults up to 25 while the brain is still developing
- people who are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding (no alcohol is the only safe choice)
- people over 60, and people with physical or mental health conditions
- people taking medication or other drugs that interact with alcohol
- people with a family history of alcohol dependence
Not sure how much you're drinking? Use the standard drink calculator to check your pour.
Frequently asked questions
How quickly does alcohol reach the brain?
Alcohol is absorbed through the stomach and small intestine into the bloodstream within minutes and reaches the brain shortly after. Blood alcohol concentration usually peaks 30 to 60 minutes after a drink, faster on an empty stomach. This is why a person can seem fine when served and be visibly intoxicated soon after.
Does food, water or coffee sober you up?
No. Food slows absorption if eaten before or while drinking, and water helps with dehydration, but only time lowers blood alcohol. The liver clears roughly one standard drink an hour and nothing speeds it up.
Does alcohol cause cancer?
Yes. Alcohol is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen, the same category as tobacco. It increases the risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, larynx, oesophagus, liver, bowel and breast. Risk rises with the amount consumed and there is no level with zero risk.
Why do RSA and Approved Manager courses cover this?
Responsible Service of Alcohol law requires staff to recognise intoxication, understand why body size, food, speed of drinking and medication change its effect, and refuse service where required. Licensees and approved managers must also manage the venue's duty of care. Understanding what alcohol does inside the body is the foundation of both.
Serve alcohol responsibly. Get certified online.
Job Trainer Australia (RTO 45742) delivers nationally recognised Responsible Service of Alcohol training online, plus the WA Approved Manager course. Study at your own pace and receive your certificate on completion.
This tool is general health information and a guide only. It is not medical advice. If you are worried about your own or someone else's drinking, talk to a GP or call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015.