Describe the physiological effects of excess alcohol on the body.

Biathlon is a winter sport that combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. Discuss the possible effects of alcohol on a biathlete’s performance.

Acute:
hydration and kidney function;

cardiovascular system;

thermoregulation;

neurologic systems;

dehydration caused by the effect of alcohol on the release of ADH / loss of coordination / reduced ability to concentrate;

reduced inhibitions «become more aggressive»;

markedly reduced heart rate, potentially leading to unconsciousness or coma;

cognitive impairment / slurred speech/vision impairment;

vasodilation to the skin;

decreased blood viscosity;

reduced core body temperature;

raised blood pressure;

Chronic:
liver damage including jaundice/cirrhosis/liver cancer/liver failure;

damage to the kidneys;

heart disease/cardiomyopathy;

alcohol-related brain damage/confusion/depression/forgetfulness;

chronic pancreatitis;

Positive effects:
reduced tremors;

Negative effects:
distorted balance/coordination;

impaired cardiac function;

reduced power/speed/strength;

inhibited cognitive processing/reaction time;

inhibition of gluconeogenesis;

lowers body temperature;

impairs vision/blurred vision and loss of control eye movement that impairs judgement;

causes dehydration which can impair performance;

Many students not reading "physiological effects" and answered generically. 

Not many answered with "Inhibition of gluconeogenesis"- see markscheme.