Genetic differences can predispose individuals to alcoholism and affect how they metabolize alcohol, especially in young people.

Genetic predispositions, combined with environmental factors, contribute to the likelihood of developing alcohol use disorders. Certain Asian cultures have genetic differences that lead to low levels of alcohol dehydrogenase, causing individuals to feel sick and flushed when they consume alcohol.

Starting to drink at a younger age significantly increases the risk of developing alcohol dependence, regardless of family history.

People who begin drinking at 13 or younger are at a much higher risk of developing long-lasting alcohol dependence compared to those who start later.

Regular drinkers or those with a genetic predisposition to alcoholism may experience increased alertness and mood when consuming alcohol.

Regular drinking alters the neural circuits that control habitual and impulsive behavior, making individuals more impulsive even when not drinking.

Chronic drinking, even if not daily, can lead to a decrease in top-down inhibition, resulting in heightened impulsivity and habitual behavior.

There isn't a single gene for alcoholism; rather, a family history of chronic alcohol abuse increases your predisposition to alcoholism.

When people drink, the prefrontal cortex and top-down inhibition are diminished, leading to increased impulsive and habitual behavior.