The South Beach Diet and Alcohol
The South Beach Diet continues to create its own name in many parts of the world. Along with its rapid widespread, many issues surrounding the relationship between the South Beach Diet and alcohol have come to the surface. With this fact, the number of studies concerning the South Beach Diet and alcohol increases and as such, there are still many unanswered questions.
Speaking about the issue of the South Beach Diet and alcohol, it is commonly noted that the relationship between the South Beach Diet and alcohol is best explained when referring to natural principle behind the South Beach Diet and alcohol. This simply means by looking to every detail mentioned in the South Beach Diet principles and relate it to the function of the alcohol in the diet.
The South Beach Diet in the first place is an eating plan that holds the principle, right carbohydrates and right fats for a healthy life. As such, the South Beach Diet is generally divided into three different phases. With this division, the existence of the bond between the South Beach Diet and alcohol becomes evident.
According to many studies, the relationship between the South Beach Diet and alcohol is best explained when knowing that the South Beach Diet does not really favor the intake of alcohol in the diet. This explanation between the South Beach Diet and alcohol is in fact shown when during the first two weeks of the South Beach Diet, alcohol is not allowed. But many people that were given such explanation between the South Beach Diet and alcohol often question the real reason for such restriction. Well, the real reason for such restriction for alcohol in the diet is that alcohol cause swings in the blood sugar that make the South Beach Dieters hungry. This is in fact the purpose of the first two weeks of the South Beach diet – to eliminate the dieters’ cravings for food.
Along with this explanation of the relationship of the South Beach Diet and alcohol, another reason is given for the alcohol to be eliminated in the diet is knowing that it has a high level of sugar and will hinder the goal of losing weight for about eight to thirteen pounds.
Numerous studies conducted for the relationship between the South Beach Diet and alcohol however shows that a moderate alcohol intake is not that really bad. The reason being that it helps slow the stomach emptying, and therefore slows the rise and fall of blood sugar, which is the main goal in the South Beach Diet. However, in the relationship between the South Beach Diet and alcohol, it is noted that an excess in alcohol intake does turn into sugar and alcohol can be a diet buster.
So if you absolutely have to have an alcoholic drink, it is then necessary to choose a low-carbohydrate version. Another study that shows the relationship between the South Beach Diet and alcohol have indicated that hard alcohols have less potential to raise the blood sugar, though they certainly are not that virtuous. But still it is commonly noted to best stay away from it for better health.
The Importance of Blood Sugar and Sugar Alcohol
Why is blood sugar so important for your body? Energy. That’s right. Blood sugar provides the body with energy that your body needs to function properly. Glucose (comes from sugar) helps fuel and replenish the body so that it processes like it should. Besides giving your body energy and stabilizing it, you may ask, “Why is blood sugar really important?” Here’s why: High or low levels of blood sugar can actually be hazardous to your health. Unusual amounts of blood sugar can lead to sweating, dizziness, confusion, shaking, seizures, a fast heart rate, and other complications. A couple of well-known blood sugar disorders are Diabetes and hypoglycemia.
Blood sugar levels can depend on (1) overeating (2) unhealthy eating (3) lack of exercise (4) stress (5) medication and (6) by disease or infection. Now you’re probably thinking, “What’s the best way to combat all that?” A healthy diet and exercise will help you maintain normal blood sugar levels. Choosing the right foods to eat and exercising regularly will balance your blood sugar levels so they don’t skyrocket on you. This doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all the foods you’ve loved your whole life. There are natural and safe substitutes that will allow you to keep the “sweet” in your diet.
Xylitol, a common sugar alcohol, is a naturally occurring substance that looks and tastes like sugar, but is healthier for you. Sugar alcohols, also known as polyols, are commonly used as sweeteners and bulking agents. Table sugar and other carbohydrates can elevate blood sugar to unhealthy levels or cause reactions to the insulin that is subsequently produced. The great thing about xylitol is that it’s absorbed into the bloodstream much slower than table sugar and other carbohydrates and that means it carries 40% less calories.
Sugar alcohol comes in a variety of forms (e.g., xylitol, mannitol, sorbitol, and others). These can be found in an assortment of foods such as soft drinks, candy, chewing gum, cookies, and many other “sugar-free products.” Xylitol is crystalline in form and a normal substance found in everyday metabolism. The FDA has given xylitol its safest rating as a food additive which means it’s perfectly healthy and safe for human consumption. It’s even safe to consume for those with diabetes and hypoglycemia.
Blood sugar and sugar alcohol are closely related to stabilizing, maintaining, and helping the body process and function properly. If not closely watched, blood sugar levels in the body can cause serious health issues. Sugar alcohols can help reduce calories and keep blood sugar levels in areas that they need to be so that you can live a healthier and more energetic life.
Guerbet Alcohols And Its Derivatives
GUERBET ALCOHOLS
Guerbet alcohols are the beta branched primary alcohols, which are the condensation products of alcohols. This chemistry has made possible the synthesis of regiospecific, beta-branched hydrophobe which introduces high-purity branching into the molecule. The chemistry has resulted in the preparation of many materials that find applications in metal lubrication, plastic mold release, paper processing, and personal care products.
The reaction involves the following steps:
* Oxidation of alcohols to aldehydes
* Aldol condensation after proton extraction
* Dehydration of the aldol product
* Hydogenation of the allylic aldehyde
The reaction is catalyzed in presence of hydrogen transfer catalyst. These include nickel, lead salts, oxides of copper, lead, zinc, chromium, molybdenum, tungsten, manganese and some palladium compounds. At low temperatures of 130-140°C, oxidation process is the rate limiting step. At somewhat higher temperatures 160-180°C, the rate limiting step is the aldol condensation .At higher temperatures, other degradative reactions occur and can become dominant. Cannizaro reaction is the major side reaction described.
Most commonly used raw materials for the preparation of Guerbet alcohols are alcohols of natural origin which are primary, with even numbered, straight carbon chains. Oxo alcohols can also be used, but the reaction rate and conversions are reduced.
Guerbet alcohols are branched, essentially saturated and of high molecular weight, exhibit the following properties Have low irritation potential Are liquid to low temperatures Are low in volatility Are reactive and can be used to make many derivatives Are good lubricants Exhibit very good oxidative stability at elevated temperatures Have excellent color initially and at elevated temperatures Exhibit improved stability over unsaturated products in many applications.
They are prepared by the oxidation of Guerbet alcohols to produce primary carboxylic acids. Oxidative alkali fusion with alkali metal salts dehydrogenates the alcohol and gives excellent yields of carboxylic acids.
Guerbet alcohols as well as acids melt at lower temperatures than linear alcohols containing the same number of carbon atoms. Compared to Guerbet alcohols with the same number of alcohols corresponding Guerbet acids melt at higher temperature.
GUERBET ESTERS
One of the desired effects of introducing Guerbet branching into ester molecules is to extend their liquidity to very low temperatures. With the availability of Guerbet acids and alcohols, branching can be introduced into the alcohol, acid or both.
It is observed that products with the lowest titer carry Guerbet branching in both the acid and the alcohol part of the molecule. The next lowest titer point is obtained when the Guerbet branch is in the acid moiety. Branching in the alcohol part results in the highest titer value. Products derived from linear acids and linear alcohols differ substantially from those derived from linear acids and Guerbet alcohols. Specifically, the former are rock hard solids while the latter are liquids with a snowy precipitate. Introduction of Gurbet branching in to the ester molecule do not alter the solubility of the resulting ester.
GUERBET SULFATES AND ETHER SULFATES
Sulfates and ether sulfates are typical anionic surfactants. One of the salient properties of surfactant is the Kraft point which is a measure of water solubility. It is defined as the temperature in °C at which a 1% dispersion becomes clear under gradual heat. The Kraft point of sulfates rises with increasing molecular weight of the hydropobe or with the addition of propylene oxide to the hydrophobe. The Kraft point decreases with the addition of ethylene oxide. The Kraft point provides another illustration of the differences between the linear and Gurbet based sulfates.
The location of the branch within the hydrophobe has a major effect upon functional properties of anionic surfactants, such as their HLB and emulsifying power. Guerbet based surfactants promote their micellization in the oil phase because of its twin tail structure which require less cosurfactant to make micro emulsions. Guerbet ether sulfates are very efficient emulsifiers for oil and emulsify three to five times more oil than the sulfates made from linear hydrophobes.
An Introduction To Alcohol
Alcohol is a colorless flammable liquid obtained by the fermentation of sugar and starch. It is used either in its pure or denatured form as a solvent in drugs, explosives, cleaning solutions or intoxicating beverages.
Alcohol is classified according to the relation between the carbon atoms in it. The most commonly used primary alcohols are methanol and ethanol. As methanol was formerly obtained from the distillation of wood, it is also known as ‘wood alcohol’. Methylated spirits or ‘surgical spirits’ is a form of ethanol. Ethanol is used in the preparation of alcoholic beverages and as an industrial solvent. The simplest secondary alcohol is isopropanol, while butanol is a simple tertiary alcohol.
Alcohols are used in industries as reagents, solvents and fuels. The primary alcohols, methanol and ethanol, burn more efficiently than diesel or gasoline. Ethanol is used as a solvent in medical drugs and perfumes.
Alcohol can be made by fermenting fruits or grains with yeast. Ethanol is produced through fermentation in the production of fuel. Ethanol has been consumed by humans in the form of alcoholic beverages since prehistoric times. Consumption in large doses can cause acute respiratory failure or death and with chronic use has medical repercussions. About 20 percent of alcohol is absorbed by the stomach and 80 percent by the small intestine. The alcohol then enters the bloodstream and dissovles in the blood. The blood circulates the alcohol throughout the body, leading to intoxication.
The human body responds to alcohol in stages. Initially, a person comsuming alhocol experiences a state of euphoria, where he may become more self-confident and appear flushed. Later, he reaches a stage of excitement and is unable to react swiftly to natural situations. This is followed by a sense of stupor where he does not respond to stimuli. Excessive consumption of alcohol can lead to a coma or death.
Alcohol abuse and dependence causes emotional and social problems. This leads to marital and family problems, including domestic violence and work-related problems. While alcoholism has devastating effects on a person’s health and social environment, there are medical and psychological ways to treat the problem.
Alcohol’s Relationship with Cancer
Cancer kills more Americans each year than anything except heart disease. It is estimated that over 526 thousand Americans will die from cancer this year, and anywhere from 2 to 4 percent of these cases can be directly or indirectly attributable to excessive alcohol usage.
The strongest connection between alcoholism and cancer is seen with cancers of the mouth, pharynx and esophagus. Breast, colorectal and liver cancers also show some relationship to excessive alcohol usage, but these are still in some dispute. Together, according to the American Cancer Society, these cancers are the cause of over 125 thousand deaths in the United States each year.
People who drink excessive amounts of alcohol over long periods of time, usually alcoholics, stand a far greater risk of developing cancer than the general population. For example, 75% of American cancers of the esophagus are linked to alcoholism. Nearly 50% of mouth, pharynx and larynx cancers can be attributed to excessive drinking. When these cancer/alcoholism sufferers also smoke cigarettes, the increase in risk factor is dramatic.
Liver cancer is indirectly related to drinking. Drinking to excess, especially to the level of alcoholism, will very often cause cirrhosis or scarring of the liver. This, in turn, leads to liver cancer. Liver cancer is relatively rare in the United States; about .002% will ever contract the disease. However, alcoholics will comprise about 36% of all liver cancer cases.
Why?
Studies show that alcohol produces a substance called acetaldehyde in the body. This substance interferes with a cell’s innate ability to repair its own DNA. This makes it more likely that a mutation like a cancer can occur.
Another possible explanation being studied is that alcohol may be interfering with the enzymes that normally help remove toxins from the body. If they can’t do so normally, these toxins can be more potent as carcinogens as they pass through the body.
Alcohol can also assist other carcinogens, making itself a co-carcinogen. For example, someone who both smokes and drinks is at a 35 times greater risk for esophageal cancer than one who neither smokes nor drinks.
Chronic alcoholism almost always results in malnutrition. This is because it interferes with the way the body absorbs nutrients in our food. Some of these nutrients seem to promote some types of cancer when not present in sufficient enough quantities. Iron, zinc, vitamins E and B are such nutrients. Vitamin A, which is proffered by some as a cancer preventative, is also reduced in heavy drinkers’ livers and esophagus’s.
When diagnosed with colon cancer, a person is often put on a diet high in folic acid. However, as little as two drinks per day can completely eliminate any benefit brought by the added fruit in the diet.
Alcoholism has long been known to negatively affect the immune system. Alcoholics are more prone to infectious diseases and cancer. To keep your chances of contracting cancer to a minimum, be sure to drink no more than two alcoholic drinks three times per week or less.
Quit Alcohol Addiction
The reason that many people tend to get addicted to alcohol is varied. Some people drink to enjoy their life and others drink when they have nothing to do, when at a party and others drink in their mournful days. Alcohol addiction can also be a consequence of the environment a person has grown up in. others may simply start to get a taste of varied alcohol flavors and different kinds of alcohols that the manufacturers dish out.
Alcohol addiction is a common sight in today’s generation. Especially in the youth, none of the parties are said to be complete without the involvement of alcohol. Alcohol is stated as one of the top causes of death and ailment in the list of addictions. It can cause many conditions that can get the better of your health even before you realize it.
After consuming alcohol it’s your liver that is targeted in the long run. This in turn guarantees that you start having problems with your internal body parts. It has been proved with recent studies that a person that tends to get addicted to alcohol reduces his own life expectancy by a minimum of ten years. People that are addicted to alcohol can be involved with a number of crimes such as murders, felony, and rape.
In such a situation a person might not have the intention of doing such an awful crime but excessive alcohol consumption takes over an alcoholics better senses. Not only do you ruin your health but also in the bargain, this will land you in a problem where you will find yourself behind bars under rigorous punishment.
People that are addicted to alcohol are described as alcoholics. Many people have attempted to try to stop this bad habit of theirs but are simply unable to. How to stop drinking alcohol? What exactly has to be done in this regard? Firstly a strong will is to be developed in order to get rid of alcohol. This is the time a person’s will power can be put to an ultimate test and for this you should be ready to overcome all obstacles that come your way.
You can visit a rehabilitation center that can help you. Rehabilitation centers are well known for their success to help people deal with different kinds of addictions. Alcohol addiction is a problem that many have encountered and overcome. With the help of friends, family and, of course your own willingness, you can leave your past behind. Now that you are aware of how to stop drinking alcohol you should not find it difficult to put a stop to your dreadful habit.
One very effective way to control drinking is by using a process called Hypnotherapy. The use of Hypnosis in therapy became very popular towards the end of the last century, used by many in the western world to help them to stop smoking. Since then the practice has come a long way and there are many clinics the world over that can help sufferers of alcohol addiction with Hypnotherapy. Many people also wish to get this help in the comfort and security of their own home. If this is the case for you then you may wish to consider using an hypnosis download for alcohol addiction. This way you get the results that you want in the comfort of your own home and in your own time.
Chemistry - Alcohols to Acids
Alcohols
There are a number of homologous series of hydrocarbon compounds which contain various functional groups that are derived from alkanes, alkenes, alkynes and benzene. Alcohols are hydrocarbons which contain the hydroxyl group, an -OH group, as their functional group. Alcohols are named from the corresponding molecule they derive from, then given an -ol ending, which describes the -OH functional group. The simplest alcohols are methanol (CH3OH) and ethanol (CH3CH2OH). Cyclic hydrocarbons can also form alcohols.
Phenol is derived from benzene, its hydroxylic functional group joining onto the aromatic ring.
Alcohols with multiple hydroxylic groups are called multiple hydroxyl-containing alcohols. The most meaningful of these are ethylene glycol and propantriol, otherwise known as glycerine. Alcohols are flammable, burning to produce carbon dioxide and water. The chemical properties of alcohols are quite similar to each other, thanks to the presence of the hydroxyl functional group. Alcohols derived from alkanes form alcoholates with impure metals. In these reactions, the hydrogen atom from the hydroxyl group is exchanged with a metal atom. This is called a substitution reaction.
CH2OH-CHOH-CH2OH
glycerine
propantriol
A sizable number of compounds which appear in living organisms contain a significant number of hydroxylic groups. Among these are simple sugars such as glucose or fructose, a sugar derived from fruits, as well as some hormones (steroidal hormones).
Structure of the Molecule and Functional Group
The functional group determines to a great degree the chemical properties of an organic material. In addition, the placement of the functional group can also have a great influence on a molecule’s chemical properties. There are three distinct types of alcohols, their grouping based on where the functional group is placed in the molecule. Primary alcohols have their -OH functional group bonded to one atom of carbon which is in turn bonded to only one other carbon atom. Methanol and ethanol are primary alcohols. Just as the bond between oxygen and hydrogen is polar, so is the bond between carbon and oxygen polar. Thanks to the differing electronegativities of these elements, they have a different attraction to the electron pair which is formed between them. Oxygen, because of its higher electronegativity, attracts the electrons more strongly than carbon. For this reason, and because it contains another two pairs of electrons, a partial negative charge is present on the oxygen atom. These charges make alcohols polar molecules.
+ -
Ethanol CH3-CH2-O-H
Chain alcohols have their simple bonds derived from corresponding alkanes. For this reason, we call this type of alcohol aliphatic. These alcohols form a homologous series whose members have the general formula CnH2n+1OH. The name of these alcohols comes from the corresponding alkane plus the suffix -ol. Just as the alkanes, isomeres exist in this alcohol series, beginning with propanol. The placement of the hydroxyl group is indicated by a numbering system which pinpoints the carbon to which the group is bonded, with that number placed either before or after the name of the molecule.
The oxygen atom strongly attracts the electron pair it shares with carbon. Combined with two other electron pairs already found on the oxygen atom, the oxygen represents a partial negative charge compared to the rest of the molecule. The hydroxylic group is hydrophilic, meaning that it attracts water. The rest of the molecule, the hydrocarbon chain, is hydrophobic, meaning that it repels water.
CH3-CH2-CH2-CH2-CH2-O-H
Hydrophobic Rest Hydrophilic Group
The hydrophobic character of the hydrocarbon chain increases as the chain gets longer. Within the hydrophobic regions of individual molecules are van der Waals forces which hold those regions together. Alkane-derived alcohols become more viscous as the length of their chains increases, because forces within the molecule become more and more exaggerated. Solubility in water decreases as molecule size grows. The hydrophilic hydroxyl group of the molecule forms hydrogen bonds with other neighbouring hydroxyl groups. These hydrogen bonds are stronger than normal van der Waals forces, and they influence the melting and boiling points of alcohols. The melting and boiling points of alcohols, therefore, are significantly higher than those of alkanes.
The Production of Ethanol
Ethanol is the most significant and important member of the alcohol family derived from alkanes. Various processes which result in the production of alcohol resulting from fermented materials are some of the best known chemical processes, and one of the very best known is the production of wine. In this process, varying degrees of ethanol are produced from the alcoholic fermentation of sugars, in the presence of enzymes. A by-product of the reaction is carbon dioxide. This type of alcoholic fermentation results in a mixture which has a 10-14% alcoholic content. Ethanol can also be produced synthetically for certain industrial uses. When this type of process takes place, the hydroxylic group from water is added onto ethane, in the presence of a catalyst.
Ethanol is a clear colourless liquid with a characteristic odour. It is strongly hydroscopic (attracts water), and can be mixed with water in an unlimited fashion. Ethanol is a flammable liquid. When it does burn, carbon dioxide and water are produced. It denatures proteins and dissolves a number of organic substances. For this reason, it is preferred as a solvent in industry rather than in the household. It is also an ingredient in a number of cosmetic and medicinal products. In the household, denatured alcohol, to which is added bits of other materials, is used as a combustible and a cleaning product. In some countries, ethanol produced from plant matter is used as a fuel mixed with petrol.
The use of ethanol as an additive to some grocery products (drinking alcohol) is very widespread. The use of alcohol first causes blood circulation in the body to increase depending on the dose taken. With increasing dose size, however, both physical and mental faculties can be hindered. This can does often lead to permanent damage. Long-term use can result in permanent damage to some vital internal organs which play large roles in the circular system, as well as the liver and the brain. This damage is the result of ethanol’s denaturing and dissolving properties. Ethanol is considered to be a habit-forming substance. There are more human beings addicted to ethanol than to the so-called harder drugs.
Structure of the Molecule and its Reactions
Ethanol, derived from ethane, contains a functional hydroxyl group bonded to one atom of carbon which is in turn bonded to another atom of carbon. Ethanol, therefore, is categorised as a primary alcohol.
The reactivity of ethanol is to a great degree determined by the presence of its functional group. Ethanol reacts with impure metals to produce ethyl metals. In this type of reaction, the hydrogen atom of the hydroxyl group is replaced by an atom of metal in a substitution reaction.
2CH3-CH2-OH + 2 Na ® 2 CH3-CH2-ONa + H2
ethanol sodiumethanolate
Phenol
Phenol is a hydroxylic derivative of benzene. It easily forms regular crystals (J S = 43° C) which turn red when exposed to air. It has a distinctive odour. Compared with other alcohols, phenol does not dissolve in water as readily. It does, however, mix with ethanol relatively easily. In an aqueous solution, phenol reacts significantly more acidicly than other alcohols. It is poisonous and corrosive.
The hydroxyl group in a molecule of phenol is bonded to a carbon on the inner ring, so the systematic name of phenol is monohydroxybenzol. The electrons of the non-bonding electron pairs in the ring
come into interaction with the electrons of the oxygen in the hydroxylic group, increasing the density of the electrons in the ring. This phenomenon is known as the positive mesomeric effect (+M). The result of this effect is that the bonding electrons of the bonds between oxygen and hydrogen are more strongly attracted to the oxygen atom, making the bond between the two a polar one. This leads to the hydrogen atom of the hydroxyl group being easily dissociated, thus forming the phenyl ion. Because phenol is able to dissociate the proton on its hydroxyl group rather easily, is can be used in solution to indicate, or recognise, an acid. Phenol is one of the reactants used in the production of plastics, paints and coatings, and herbicides.
Methanol
Methanol is the first member of the homologous series of alkane-derived alcohols. It has similar chemical properties to ethanol. Methanol is, of course, highly toxic. Its use can lead to blindness, and in higher dosages of around 50 ml, even to death. Methanol is a clear, colourless liquid with a characteristic odour. In industry, methanol is used in the production of formaldehyde, esters and acetic acid.
Bicarboxylic and Hydroxycarboxylic Acids
Bicarboxylic Acids
Bicarboxylic acids have two carboxylic groups. Many bicarboxylic compounds are biologically very important.
Oxalic acid (HOOC-COOH) is found in most types of vinegars. .
Amber acid (HOOC-CH2-CH2-COOH) is found in living organisms. It helps in material exchange of some of the important materials organisms need. With its help, a process known as biological oxidation (cell breathing) takes place. This is one of the most important biological processes, one in which the body synthesises its own energy.
Adipatic acid (HOOC-(CH2)4-COOH)
Hydroxycarboxylic Acids
In molecules of carboxylic acids, one or more hydrogen atoms in the hydrocarbon chain can be exchanged for a hydroxylic group (-OH). Hydroxycarboxylic acids are often found in nature and are important because they take part in a number of important biological processes. These carboxylic acids, because of their nature, used to be called plant acids.
Important hydroxycarboxylic acids
Lactic acid CH3-CH-COOH
½
OH
Many microorganisms breakdown hydrocarbons to produce lactic acid. Lactic sugar is found in milk, and this is also easily broken down to produce lactic acid. Thanks to the acidic atmosphere in which this degradation takes place, a layer of agglutinated proteins forms on the top surface of the milk. This is cream. Lactic acid is also produced when acidic cabbage, cucumbers or silage are fermented.
Lactic acid is produced in muscle tissue, too - when glycogens are broken down and not enough oxygen is present. This lack of oxygen is responsible for the pain we feel in muscle tissue, and is also a sign of fatigue.
Wine acid
HOOC-CH-CH-COOH
½ ½
OH OH
In plants, this type of so-called wine acid occurs as a component of some vines, especially grape vines. It is also one of the most important compounds in wine, along with potassium, vinny kamen.
Wine rock is a material used in the textile industry, finding its significance in the dying or colouring of some materials. Another compound, hydrogentartarate draselny, with the common name baking powder, is used in the household.
A number of plant acids can be found in the bodies of living organisms. They are important as intermediate products in the decomposition of hydrocarbons. They are also used in the production of some sweets, syrups and textiles.
A lack of vitamin C can cause scurvy (a disease caused by a lack of vitamins that can be fatal if not treated). Ascorbic acid helps to slow down uncontrolled oxidation, because it oxidises more quickly as a replacement. Human beings need around 75 mg of vitamin C per day. It is found in some plant material, including fruits and vegetables. Otherwise, ascorbic acid is used as a preservative.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is used as a preservative, too. A compound it forms with sodium, sodium salicylate, is a very good medicine used for rheumatic diseases. It is also the base material contained in aspirin.
Ethers
Éthers are composed of two hydrocarbon groups which are bonded to each other by means of an atom of oxygen. The oxygen centre does not influence the arrangement or characteristics of the ether.
The properties of ethers are similar to the properties of other hydrocarbons, and especially alkanes. Ethers, however, are not capable of bonding with hydrogen atoms. Ethers form isomeric compounds with alcohols. For example, ethyl alcohol (CH3CH2OH) has the same chemical formula as dimethylether (CH3OCH3). This compound is the best known and most often mentioned of all of the ether family.
Dimethylether has a low boiling point. It is very explosive and flammable. Ethers are very soluble and were often used as narcotics to help people fall asleep in past times. The ether compound (C-O-C) is common in nature, often being found in sugars, cellulose and lignite.
Aldehydes and Ketones
Aldehydes and ketones are among the compounds which contain oxygen, the bonds they form with oxygen being characteristic for these types of compounds. Aldehydes are derived from the primary alcohols. They contain the so-called aldehyde group in their molecule. The aldehyde group is one atom of carbon which is double bonded to an atom of oxygen and single bonded to an atom of hydrogen. Aldehydes are named according to the corresponding alkane they are derived from, with an -al ending at the end. The first group members have traditional names. The homologous group begins with formaldehyde.
Formaldehyde H - C = O
½
H
The functional group is very reactive and has reductive characteristics. Aldeydes reduce silver ions to silver metal, as well as reducing copper ions with a plus 2 charge to copper ions with just one positive charge.
Formaldehyde is a found in the gaseous state of matter. It is used as a 38% solution (formalin).
It is produced in quantity by the catalytic oxidation of methanol in the presence of and with the help of oxygen. Formaldehyde is a reactant in the process of the chemical production of plastic materials and other products. In the form of its solution, formalin it is used as a preservative. Because of its violent reactivity, its functional groups have antibacterial effects. As a pure material, it can be harmful to human beings’ health when it gets into the respiratory system.
Ketones
Ketones are derived from secondary alcohols. In secondary alcohols, the hydroxyl group is attached to a carbon atom which is bonded to a second carbon atom. The functional group of ketones is composed of a carbon atom which is double bonded to a carbon atom and called the carbonyl group. In naming ketone compounds, the corresponding alkane’s name is taken first. Then the suffix -one is added. Description of the location of the carbonyl group is done with the help of numbers, before the name of the compound. The simplest ketone is a material with the common name acetone. Ketones form a homologous family of compounds.
Significance and Uses
Acetone is able to mix with water and ethanol in unlimited quantity. It is a very good solvent because
it can dissolve both polar and non-polar compounds. It is used often in industrial syntheses (in the production of plastic and some medicines), deriving its significance as an intermediate. In the household it is used as a nail polish remover. It is also used in the same way to dissolve and dilute some other types of paints.
Quit Alcohol Addiction
The reason that many people tend to get addicted to alcohol is varied. Some people drink to enjoy their life and others drink when they have nothing to do, when at a party and others drink in their mournful days. Alcohol addiction can also be a consequence of the environment a person has grown up in. others may simply start to get a taste of varied alcohol flavors and different kinds of alcohols that the manufacturers dish out.
Alcohol addiction is a common sight in today’s generation. Especially in the youth, none of the parties are said to be complete without the involvement of alcohol. Alcohol is stated as one of the top causes of death and ailment in the list of addictions. It can cause many conditions that can get the better of your health even before you realize it.
After consuming alcohol it’s your liver that is targeted in the long run. This in turn guarantees that you start having problems with your internal body parts. It has been proved with recent studies that a person that tends to get addicted to alcohol reduces his own life expectancy by a minimum of ten years. People that are addicted to alcohol can be involved with a number of crimes such as murders, felony, and rape.
In such a situation a person might not have the intention of doing such an awful crime but excessive alcohol consumption takes over an alcoholics better senses. Not only do you ruin your health but also in the bargain, this will land you in a problem where you will find yourself behind bars under rigorous punishment.
People that are addicted to alcohol are described as alcoholics. Many people have attempted to try to stop this bad habit of theirs but are simply unable to. How to stop drinking alcohol? What exactly has to be done in this regard? Firstly a strong will is to be developed in order to get rid of alcohol. This is the time a person’s will power can be put to an ultimate test and for this you should be ready to overcome all obstacles that come your way.
You can visit a rehabilitation center that can help you. Rehabilitation centers are well known for their success to help people deal with different kinds of addictions. Alcohol addiction is a problem that many have encountered and overcome. With the help of friends, family and, of course your own willingness, you can leave your past behind. Now that you are aware of how to stop drinking alcohol you should not find it difficult to put a stop to your dreadful habit.
One very effective way to control drinking is by using a process called Hypnotherapy. The use of Hypnosis in therapy became very popular towards the end of the last century, used by many in the western world to help them to stop smoking. Since then the practice has come a long way and there are many clinics the world over that can help sufferers of alcohol addiction with Hypnotherapy. Many people also wish to get this help in the comfort and security of their own home. If this is the case for you then you may wish to consider using an hypnosis download for alcohol addiction. This way you get the results that you want in the comfort of your own home and in your own time.
Practical Hints On Alcohol Treatment Centres In Washington
The city of Washington is big and pretty but alcohol addiction is a serious nuisance in the city. The police are having a heck of time curtailing people driving under the influence of alcohol. This is why we have many Washington alcohol treatment centres. These centres are available for you if you want to stay off alcohol for good.
Though some of these Washington alcohol treatment centres may be quite costly, it’s no alibi for patronizing quack and fake centres. You can still stumble on low-priced and affordable ones among them. Just be unwearied while looking. Many of these centres give their services at an affordable rate in order to get more consumers like you. Since there are many of them in the city of Washington, there is a lot of competition. This has led many of them to do all sorts of things to get consumers. Hey, you don’t need to worry about this. They are all trying to get your attention and your money!
But you must not only make sure that the centre is fully licensed, you must make sure that the therapist also has a license to practice. This is a must if you want to get the most excellent treatment for alcohol addiction. Many of the alcohol treatment centres in Washington are either not registered or have unlicensed therapist working for them.
Attending a Washington alcohol treatment centre is extraordinarily worthwhile for you if you reside in Washington or counties around. It is better than spending a fortune going to other states for alcohol addiction treatment.
I know getting into an alcohol treatment centre is not gripping but you need all the alimony you can get to stay off alcohol. Alcohol addiction has never done well to anyone. It only makes you disturbing at the end of the day. The addict thinks in his or her world. He is under a fantasy; believing that every other person is fallacious and he or she alone is right.
It’s suitable to attend any of the Washington alcohol treatment centre near you instead of endeavoring to do it on your own. It’s no use endeavoring since your body has been conditioned to alcohol. So, if your body does not get these alcohols, it begins to malfunction. This is why you must attend an alcohol treatment centre.
An Introduction To Alcohol
Alcohol is a colorless flammable liquid obtained by the fermentation of sugar and starch. It is used either in its pure or denatured form as a solvent in drugs, explosives, cleaning solutions or intoxicating beverages.
Alcohol is classified according to the relation between the carbon atoms in it. The most commonly used primary alcohols are methanol and ethanol. As methanol was formerly obtained from the distillation of wood, it is also known as ‘wood alcohol’. Methylated spirits or ‘surgical spirits’ is a form of ethanol. Ethanol is used in the preparation of alcoholic beverages and as an industrial solvent. The simplest secondary alcohol is isopropanol, while butanol is a simple tertiary alcohol.
Alcohols are used in industries as reagents, solvents and fuels. The primary alcohols, methanol and ethanol, burn more efficiently than diesel or gasoline. Ethanol is used as a solvent in medical drugs and perfumes.
Alcohol can be made by fermenting fruits or grains with yeast. Ethanol is produced through fermentation in the production of fuel. Ethanol has been consumed by humans in the form of alcoholic beverages since prehistoric times. Consumption in large doses can cause acute respiratory failure or death and with chronic use has medical repercussions. About 20 percent of alcohol is absorbed by the stomach and 80 percent by the small intestine. The alcohol then enters the bloodstream and dissovles in the blood. The blood circulates the alcohol throughout the body, leading to intoxication.
The human body responds to alcohol in stages. Initially, a person comsuming alhocol experiences a state of euphoria, where he may become more self-confident and appear flushed. Later, he reaches a stage of excitement and is unable to react swiftly to natural situations. This is followed by a sense of stupor where he does not respond to stimuli. Excessive consumption of alcohol can lead to a coma or death.
Alcohol abuse and dependence causes emotional and social problems. This leads to marital and family problems, including domestic violence and work-related problems. While alcoholism has devastating effects on a person’s health and social environment, there are medical and psychological ways to treat the problem.