Nutritionist's Perspective

Question 1

is there storage of alcohol in the liver

Answer 1

no it is removed from the blood by oxidation

Question 2

how many kcal in 1g of alcohol

Answer 2

7

Question 3

alcohol increases the risk of nutritional deficiencies by?

Answer 3

• replacing food intake and changing appetite
• decreased secretion of pancreatic enzymes and bile
• damages lining of stomach and transport of nutrients (vit A and fat)
• ethanol metabolism relies on B1

Question 4

what is thiamine (B1) needed for?

Answer 4

ATP production
nerve conduction
maintenance of neural membranes

Question 5

why are thiamine levels reduced in alcohol use

Answer 5

increased metabolism
poor intake
decreased storage in fatty liver

Question 6

clinical signs of a thiamine deficiency

Answer 6

1. dry beriberi: NS
2. wet beriberi: CVS
3. WK syndrome

Question 7

other notable deficiencies

Answer 7

folate
B12
niacin
Vit A (blindness)
Ca
zinc

Question 8

management of deficiencies

Answer 8

parental or enteral nutrition

Question 9

mechanisms of alcohol and cancer

Answer 9

• carcinogenic breakdown products e.g. acetaldehyde
• solvent so easier to enter cells
• increased oestrogen (breast cancer)

Question 10

how is blood glucose regulated

Answer 10

food we eat
breakdown of glycogen
gluconeogenesis
alcohol interferes with all

Question 11

risks to the foetus

Answer 11

miscarriage
premature birth
low birth weight
abnormal appearance
low intelligence
hearing and sight problems