Alcoholic beverage

An Alcoholic beverage (pronunciation: /ˌæl.kəˈhɑː.lɪk ˈbɛv.ər.ɪdʒ/) is a drink that contains ethanol, a type of alcohol produced by fermentation of grains, fruits, or other sources of sugar. The consumption of alcoholic beverages plays an important social role in many cultures.

Etymology

The term "alcoholic beverage" is a compound of the words "alcohol" and "beverage". "Alcohol" comes from the Arabic word "al-kuhl" which means "the kohl", a powder used for eye makeup. "Beverage" is derived from the Old French word "bevrage" meaning "a drink".

Types of Alcoholic Beverages

There are several types of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, spirits, and liqueurs. Each type of beverage is produced using different methods and ingredients, resulting in a wide range of flavors and alcohol content.

Beer

Beer is one of the oldest and most widely consumed alcoholic beverages in the world. It is produced by the brewing and fermentation of starches, mainly derived from cereal grains—most commonly malted barley, although wheat, corn, and rice are also used.

Wine

Wine is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented grapes or other fruits. The natural chemical balance of grapes lets them ferment without the addition of sugars, acids, enzymes, water, or other nutrients.

Spirits

Spirits are distilled alcoholic beverages. They are produced by distillation of a fermented substance, which concentrates the alcohol and removes some of the congeners.

Liqueurs

Liqueurs are sweetened spirits with various flavors, oils, and extracts added. Some liqueurs are prepared by infusing certain woods, fruits, or flowers, in either water or alcohol, and adding sugar or other items.

Health Effects

Consumption of alcoholic beverages can lead to alcohol-related health issues, such as liver disease, heart disease, and alcoholism. However, moderate consumption can also have potential health benefits for some individuals.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Alcoholic beverage
Wikipedia's article - Alcoholic beverage

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Alcoholic beverage