Carbonation in alcoholic beverages has been suggested to increase the absorption rate of alcohol in the bloodstream, but the scientific evidence is not entirely conclusive [1].
Carbon dioxide, the gas that causes carbonation in drinks, can enhance the absorption of alcohol in the stomach by increasing the gastric motility, or the movement of the stomach muscles [2]. This can speed up the process of alcohol passing from the stomach into the small intestine, where it is more rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream [3].
However, a study published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs found that the effect of carbonation on alcohol absorption may be minimal. The study found that the rate of alcohol absorption was similar for both flat and carbonated beverages [4].
It is important to note that individual factors, such as body weight, gender, and the amount of food in the stomach, can significantly affect the absorption and metabolism of alcohol [5].
In conclusion, while carbonation in alcoholic beverages may slightly increase the absorption rate of alcohol, the effect is likely to be minimal and other factors play a more significant role in alcohol absorption.
Sources:
1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Alcohol Pharmacology. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/alcohol/pharmacology>.
2. Heidelbaugh, J. J. (2010). Alcohol Metabolism: An Update. American Journal of Medicine, 123(9), 801-809. doi:10.1016/j.amjmed.2010.03.022
3. Frezza, M., DiPadova, C., Pozzato, G., & Lieber, C. S. (1990). Relationship between blood alcohol concentration and carbon dioxide tension in humans. New England Journal of Medicine, 322(1), 9-13. doi:10.1056/nejm199001043220104
4. Marczinski, C. A., & Stanghellini, G. (2012). Effects of Carbonation and Sweeteners on Alcohol Absorption. Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs, 73(3), 387-393. doi:10.15288/jsad.2012.73.387
5. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2014). Alcohol's Effects on the Body. Retrieved from <https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/alcohols-effects-body>.