Factors Affecting BAC
Although you might feel like you are sober enough to drive after a night of drinking with friends, there are still many other factors besides the amount of alcohol you consumed that can impact the results of a DUI test. The last thing you want is to be pulled over for is a DUI even though you aren’t drunk and are capable of safely driving your vehicle. In this blog, we explain 5 factors that can influence the results of a blood alcohol test.
Factor #1: Body Type
A person’s body type can have a major impact on how high their blood alcohol concentration is. In general, people who have smaller bodies and weigh less are more easily affected by alcohol. Heavier people are able to hold more water in their body, making it easier for them to dilute alcohol and lower their BAC. Even when the two body types have the same amount of drinks, the heavier individuals usually have a lower BAC than thinner drinkers.
Factor #2: Gender
A person’s sex also determines how alcohol is absorbed by their body. Research from the University of Rochester revealed that because women tend to have more body fat than men, they often have a higher BAC after consuming alcohol. Another reason for this is because dehydrogenase, the enzyme that absorbs alcohol, is more prevalent in men than women. Even when the two genders have the same height and weight, alcohol still has a greater impact on the woman.
Factor #3: Duration Between Drinks
In general, the faster you drink, the higher your BAC will be. If you take your time and drink slowly over a long period of time, you will have a much lower BAC than if you were speed-drinking. This means that if you drink 5 beers in one hour instead of spreading the 5 beers out over a 3 hour period, you will have a higher BAC, even though you drank the same amount of alcohol.
Factor #4: How Much Food You Eat
The amount of food you eat while you are drinking will also have a substantial impact on your blood alcohol concentration. This is why it is important to never consume alcohol while you have an empty stomach. Doing so will cause you to become intoxicated much quicker than if you had some food in your system. Drinking on an empty stomach will also irritate your digestive system. You should eat something high in protein before you begin consuming alcohol.
Factor #5: Health Conditions
If you have a genetic enzyme deficiency (like alcohol dehydrogenase and aldehyde dehydrogenase) or other serious health conditions, your body might not be able to absorb and metabolize alcohol. This can result in a person having a high BAC after only a few drinks.
Defense for Your DUI Charges
Have you or someone you know been arrested for DUI? If so, you should get in touch with our law firm to get help with your case. At The Law Office of Thomas C. Thomasian, Esq, we are here to assist clients throughout Rhode Island with their DUI cases, and we have the skills and extensive resources that you need to secure the justice you deserve. Let us get work for you today.
Call (401) 312-4385 to set up a free consultation our team. We are here to take your call 24/7.