Yes, alcohol consumption can impair the function of digestive enzymes, which can negatively impact the absorption of nutrients.
Digestive enzymes are crucial for breaking down food molecules into smaller components, allowing for proper absorption and utilization of nutrients by the body. Alcohol can interfere with this process in several ways.
Firstly, alcohol can cause the pancreas to produce less digestive enzymes. The pancreas is responsible for producing several digestive enzymes, including amylase, lipase, and trypsin. Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas that can result in decreased production of these enzymes [1].
Secondly, alcohol can directly damage the cells in the lining of the stomach and small intestine, which can impair the function of digestive enzymes. This damage can lead to a condition called "leaky gut," where the lining of the intestine becomes more permeable, allowing toxins and undigested food particles to enter the bloodstream [2].
Lastly, alcohol can also interfere with the absorption of nutrients by damaging the cells in the lining of the small intestine. This damage can prevent the absorption of important nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals [3].
In summary, alcohol consumption can impair the function of digestive enzymes, which can negatively impact the absorption of nutrients. Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to pancreatitis, damage to the cells in the lining of the stomach and small intestine, and a condition called "leaky gut," all of which can impair the function of digestive enzymes.
Sources:
[1] <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535506/>
[2] <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4590617/>
[3] <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/disease/alcoholism>