At Denovo Recovery, we help people understand how alcohol affects the body and mind. Many people ask, how long does alcohol stay in your system? The answer depends on several factors, including metabolism, body weight, and how much you drink.
How the Body Processes Alcohol
Alcohol is processed primarily by the liver. On average, the body metabolizes alcohol at a rate of one standard drink per hour. However, alcohol stays in different parts of the body for varying amounts of time:
- Blood – Up to 12 hours
- Breath – 12 to 24 hours
- Urine – 12 to 48 hours (up to 80 hours in some cases)
- Saliva – 12 to 24 hours
- Hair – Up to 90 days
Factors That Affect Alcohol Metabolism
The length of time alcohol stays in your system depends on:
- Age – Younger people metabolize alcohol faster than older adults.
- Body weight – Heavier individuals process alcohol more efficiently.
- Gender – Women generally metabolize alcohol more slowly than men.
- Food intake – Eating before drinking slows alcohol absorption.
- Hydration levels – Dehydration can slow down alcohol elimination.
- Liver health – A damaged liver processes alcohol more slowly.
Why Alcohol Stays in Your System
Drinking more than your body can process leads to intoxication. Your liver can only break down so much alcohol per hour. If you drink too quickly, alcohol builds up in your bloodstream, causing impairment and hangovers.
How to Eliminate Alcohol Faster
There is no way to instantly sober up, but these tips may help speed up metabolism:
- Hydrate – Drink plenty of water to aid liver function.
- Eat nutritious foods – Healthy meals support faster alcohol breakdown.
- Exercise – Light activity can help boost metabolism.
- Get rest – Sleep allows your body to process alcohol more efficiently.
How Denovo Recovery Can Help
If alcohol use is affecting your life, we provide:
- Medical detox – Safe, supervised withdrawal.
- Therapy & counseling – Addressing underlying issues.
- Personalized treatment plans – Tailored to your needs.
- Ongoing support – Helping maintain long-term sobriety.
Take Control of Your Health
Understanding how alcohol affects your system is key to making informed decisions. If drinking is becoming a problem, Denovo Recovery is here to help. Contact us today to begin your journey to sobriety.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does alcohol stay in your blood?
Alcohol can stay in your bloodstream for up to 12 hours, depending on metabolism and consumption.
Can drinking water help eliminate alcohol faster?
Water helps with hydration but does not speed up alcohol metabolism. Only time can reduce blood alcohol levels.
How long does alcohol stay in your urine?
Alcohol can be detected in urine for 12 to 48 hours, or up to 80 hours in some cases.
Does exercise help get rid of alcohol faster?
Exercise may boost metabolism slightly, but it will not significantly speed up alcohol elimination.
How can I start treatment at Denovo Recovery?
Contact us today. Our team provides compassionate, personalized care to help you regain control of your life