Drunk for Days? Here’s The Science Behind How Long Alcohol Stays in Your System!

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 20:35:49 +0000

# Drunk for Days? The Science Behind How Long Alcohol Stays in Your System Ever wonder why some people seem to stay “drunk for days” after a heavy night of drinking? Environments, metabolism rates, beer type, and personal health all influence how long alcohol lingers in your system. Today, we break down the science behind alcohol metabolism, absorption, elimination, and why some individuals report feeling impaired longer than others. Whether you’re planning a night out or simply curious, this guide helps explain the real science behind how long alcohol stays in your bloodstream and body. ## How Alcohol is Absorbed and Metabolized Alcohol, or ethanol, enters your bloodstream primarily through the stomach and small intestine. The absorption rate depends heavily on whether you eat before drinking. Drinking on an empty stomach causes alcohol to reach your bloodstream faster—sometimes within 10 minutes—leading to rapid intoxication. Eating slows gastric emptying, which delays absorption and lessens peak blood alcohol concentration (BAC).