Why Expired Alcohol May Cause Gastric Diseases

Under normal circumstances, expired alcohol may cause stomach diseases, mainly due to reasons such as alcohol oxidation and deterioration, massive microbial growth, increased organic acid content, ineffectiveness and decomposition of additives, and increased concentration of fusel oil. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Alcohol Oxidation and Deterioration

Alcohol stored for a long time in liquor undergoes an oxidation reaction with oxygen in the air, generating substances such as acetaldehyde and acetic acid. Acetaldehyde directly irritates the gastric mucosa, damaging its protective barrier, leading to gastric mucosal congestion and edema, which can cause stomach diseases such as gastritis and gastric ulcers, resulting in symptoms like stomach pain and acid reflux.

2. Massive Microbial Growth

After expiration, the original bactericidal components may decrease in concentration, no longer effectively inhibiting microbial growth. Bacteria, molds, and other microorganisms can multiply extensively in the liquor, producing toxins. These microorganisms and toxins entering the stomach will irritate the gastric mucosa, causing gastrointestinal infections that lead to acute gastroenteritis, resulting in symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Long-term exposure may also damage gastric mucosal cells.

3. Increased Organic Acid Content

Some liquors, after expiration, may undergo further fermentation of sugars or other components, producing more organic acids. Excessively high levels of organic acid can disrupt the normal acid-base balance in the stomach, irritating the gastric mucosa and worsening mucosal damage. This especially exacerbates discomfort such as stomach pain and heartburn in individuals who already have gastric mucosal inflammation or ulcers.

4. Ineffectiveness and Decomposition of Additives

Some liquors contain additives such as preservatives and flavoring agents during production. After expiration, these additives may lose their original effects or even decompose, generating substances harmful to the stomach. These decomposition products entering the stomach can directly irritate the gastric mucosa, interfere with normal gastric physiological functions, and increase the risk of gastric diseases.

5. Increased Fusel Oil Concentration

Fusel oil contained in liquor itself has a certain level of toxicity and is metabolized slowly in the human body. During expiration and storage, some components in the liquor may convert into fusel oil, leading to increased concentration. After entering the stomach, fusel oil irritates the gastric mucosa, causing discomfort, and may also affect other organs through the bloodstream, indirectly increasing the metabolic burden on the stomach.

In addition, drinking expired liquor may also be accompanied by deterioration in taste and unpleasant odors. If the liquor appears cloudy, has sediment, or emits a rancid smell, consumption should be stopped immediately to avoid further harm to the body. When storing liquor daily, it is important to ensure proper sealing, avoid light exposure, and control temperature to reduce the likelihood of expiration and spoilage.