Source: CDC
Women generally have a higher percentage of body fat and a lower percentage of water compared to men. Since alcohol is water-soluble, it is more concentrated in women's bodies, leading to a stronger effect.
Women tend to have lower levels of an enzyme called alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) in their stomachs and livers. With less ADH, more alcohol enters a woman's bloodstream compared to a man's, even if they drink the same amount.
Hormonal changes throughout the menstrual cycle can affect alcohol metabolism. For example, women may experience stronger effects of alcohol just before their periods or when taking birth control pills due to changes in estrogen and progesterone levels.
Women tend to weigh less than men, which means they have less tissue to absorb and distribute the alcohol, leading to higher blood alcohol concentration (BAC) with the same amount of alcohol intake.
Women are more likely to experience the adverse effects of alcohol, including intoxication and hangovers, at lower doses. Chronic drinking also leads to alcohol-related liver damage and other health issues faster in women than men.
Women are more susceptible to alcohol-related liver disease, brain damage, and heart disease even when consuming alcohol in amounts considered safe for men.