A second aspect of problem drinking is physical addiction to alcohol. A research team of scientists reports:

“It is of paramount importance to realize that people differ in their resistance to systemic poisons, the sting of a bee, or in their reaction to the poison of ivy, even in their ability to digest such a common food as sugar.

“Our research indicates that alcohol is a drug that is addictive in varying degrees for approximately 20% of the population in the United States, but functions as a non-addictive tranquilizer for the remaining 80% under ordinary, voluntary circumstances. Alcohol consumed by the average person passes through his body, and does not leave an addictive ‘hook.’ However, some people are not able to remove the toxic by-products from their system.

“The toxic (poisonous) residue causes a disturbance in the body inducing tension, anxiety, irritability and thirst. These effects are temporarily alleviated by more of the sedative, alcohol, so they continue to drink relentlessly.”

Hence, the body chemistry of certain individuals may predispose them to alcohol addiction. If they begin to drink, they feel compelled to keep on drinking. Even persons who do not have this predisposition can become physically addicted to alcohol by continual heavy drinking.

Besides leading to tens of thousands of highway accidents each year, it causes liver and brain damage, and often death. Even unborn offspring may suffer from its ill effects.

What are we talking about? ALCOHOLISM!