Which of the following is NOT a way that alcohol can influence your body?

When discussing how alcohol influences the body, increased alertness is not a typical effect. In fact, alcohol is a depressant that negatively affects the central nervous system, leading to a decrease in overall alertness and awareness. It can impair cognitive functions, including decision-making and responsiveness, ultimately giving the false impression of increased confidence or alertness when, in reality, the individual becomes less aware of their surroundings and less capable of responding to events as they occur.

On the other hand, impaired judgment, slowed reflexes, and distorted perception are all well-documented effects of alcohol consumption. These effects can severely hinder a person's ability to drive safely or make sound decisions, illustrating the significant risks associated with alcohol intake in situations requiring full cognitive and motor function.