Drink hits women harder says Alac

By LIBBY MIDDLEBROOK

Men and women may not literally come from Mars and Venus, but we are worlds apart when it comes to getting sozzled.

The Alcohol Advisory Council (Alac), launching its new Women and Alcohol booklet, says females are more likely to feel the effects of alcohol than males, regardless of body size.

Jennifer Harris of Alac said international studies showed chemistry was partly to blame as a stomach enzyme called alcohol dehydrogenase, designed to process alcohol, was not as effective in women.

A higher proportion of body fat and less water in female bodies meant alcohol was more concentrated in the blood steam and had stronger effects. Menstrual cycles could also affect a woman's response to alcohol.

"Women simply have a much lower tolerance for alcohol. It's more concentrated in their bodies and it can do a lot more damage," said Ms Harris.

"Women are drinking more, particularly young ones, and they are trying to keep up with the guys.

"They don't realise the risks they are taking."

Eight of 10 New Zealand women consume alcohol, with almost 10 per cent drinking every day.

The Drug Foundation's executive director, Sally Jackman, said female alcohol consumption was rising, exposing women's vulnerability to unwanted sex, sexually contracted diseases and violence.

"Women have got to be particularly careful and not try to compete with men in the drinking stakes."

Alac's booklet also included facts on women's health, alcohol and pregnancy and breast feeding.