This time of year, many festivities involve alcohol. And with social events
sometimes around every corner, it's easy to let our alcohol consumption increase.
January is a common time of year for people to report recently increased amounts
of alcohol consumption together with renewed (or new) resolutions to cut back
on drinking. This holiday season, try to reduce your drinking ahead of time
and beat the January rush.
While at parties, it's a good idea to pace your drinks. You've probably heard
it before, but remember to wait for an hour between drinks, and make sure you
have something to eat so that you are not drinking on an empty stomach (having
food in your stomach will help slow the effects of alcohol intoxication). Try
to alternate between an alcoholic beverage and one that does not contain alcohol.
And watch out for that bowl of holiday punch, which may pack more punch than
you expect.
Keep in mind that men and women metabolize alcohol at different rates (women
have a slower metabolism). This, combined with a smaller size, means that women
will reach a higher blood alcohol concentration than men for the same number
of drinks. Limit your drinks accordingly! A standard drink consists of one 12-ounce
bottle of beer (5% alcohol), one 5-ounce glass of wine (12% alcohol), or one
1½-ounce serving of hard liquor (40% alcohol).
Always use your good judgment and try to moderate those "glasses of good
cheer." Your body will thank you for it… and you might gain a head
start on that New Year's resolution!