[kccqzy]

I don't understand at all what is this "buzz" that people talk about that causes alcoholism. When I drink too much, I feel dizzy and I hate that feeling of not being fully in control. When I do drink moderately, it's because the drink tastes good, period. Some mocktails taste just as good as the real alcoholic version so I'll opt for that. Wines have a much more complex profile so grape juice isn't a substitute, but still I enjoy the taste and aroma of wines, not that it gives me any pleasurable "buzz" (whatever it is).

[washadjeffmad]

You've reinforced the premise of the article!

Your brain has to learn how to be "buzzed", thus the experience is a function of your very complicated physiology and neurochemistry.

If you are susceptible and drink often enough, your brain will begin to associate drinking and its effects with certain activities. The addiction arises when your brain tells you it's a good idea, and you comply.

I tell younger people this, but when you're an alcoholic, you don't realize it until you're not addicted to alcohol. I went through this when I was maybe 20, and when I quit, I was often surprised when and where I suddenly felt the urge to look for a drink. After, I saw it all around me in others. As soon as a remotely stressful situation, and they began pouring themselves drinks, often maintaining a certain level until their day ended. Most of them never got drunk, and many could drink several drinks before they reached a point where they "felt" it.

It doesn't have to be overtly pleasurable to be felt. Sometimes, it's merely the removal of difficult feelings that drives someone.

[tcj_phx]

> As soon as a remotely stressful situation, and they began pouring themselves drinks, often maintaining a certain level until their day ended.

Emotional and physical stress increases the brain's use of glucose.

Alcohol has 7 calories per gram. I think the main use of alcohol in the brain is as acetate (vinegar) - that is, Ethanol is transformed by the liver into acetate, which is one of the brain's alternative fuel sources.

For people with broken metabolisms, ethanol also provides calories to allow their brain to function.

Increased brain uptake and oxidation of acetate in heavy drinkers - https://www.jci.org/articles/view/65153

[SpicyLemonZest]

It’s the same feeling you’re reporting, many of us just find it fun to be a bit dizzy. I’m not trying to argue anyone into enjoying drunkenness, but I like spinning around in my chair really fast too.