Which of the following best describes the primary effects of beverage alcohol on the human body?

• A. It enhances cognitive performance and alertness.
• B. It acts as a central nervous system depressant.
• C. It primarily increases metabolic rate.
• D. It stimulates the production of adrenaline.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that beverage alcohol, commonly known as ethanol, affects the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS includes the brain and spinal cord, which control bodily functions and behavior.
2. Recognize that alcohol's primary effect is to slow down brain activity, which is characteristic of a depressant. This means it reduces neural excitability and can impair cognitive and motor functions.
3. Contrast this with stimulants, which increase alertness and metabolic rate, and note that alcohol does not enhance cognitive performance or increase metabolism significantly.
4. Recall that alcohol does not stimulate adrenaline production; instead, it generally has a calming or sedative effect on the nervous system.
5. Conclude that the best description of alcohol's primary effect is that it acts as a central nervous system depressant, slowing down brain function and bodily responses.