Tag: Asian flush

It is estimated that up to 50% of people of East Asian descent experience an alcohol flush reaction due to a genetic variant. Debunking the notion that an entire race cannot drink alcohol, this article reveals that alcohol intolerance is not a racial trait but an inherited metabolic disorder rooted in specific genetic mutations.

An estimated 560 million people, primarily of East Asian descent, carry a genetic variant that causes ALDH2 deficiency, affecting their ability to metabolize alcohol and other compounds. For individuals with ALDH2 deficiency, avoiding certain foods that produce or contain acetaldehyde is crucial for managing symptoms and reducing health risks.

According to research, around 8% of the global population, and up to 40% of East Asians, have a genetic variant that makes them unable to properly metabolize alcohol. For these individuals, consuming alcoholic beverages leads to an immediate and unpleasant reaction that goes far beyond a typical hangover, signaling a potential underlying health issue.