Having too much alcohol can lead to trouble like embarrassment, accidents, injuries, and health issues. Even a little alcohol can increase your chances of getting cancer. To stay out of harm’s way, it’s important to drink responsibly. Here are some simple rules to help you do that:
1. Know Your Limit
To keep yourself safe, it’s important to understand how much alcohol is okay. The Australian Guidelines say that healthy adults can have up to 10 standard drinks a week, with no more than 4 on one day. But remember, the amount of alcohol that’s safe for you depends on things like your age, weight, and how you’re feeling. If you or a loved are in need of help, here’s a link to alcohol rehab in Orange County
2. Don’t Rush Your Drinks
Your blood alcohol level is how much the alcohol is affecting you. The higher your blood alcohol level, the more likely you are to get hurt or really sick. To stay safe, drink slowly. Mix your drinks with water and drink a non-alcoholic drink between every alcoholic drink. You’ll drink less alcohol that way.
3. Don’t Drink on an Empty Stomach
Alcohol goes into your body through your stomach and intestines. If you drink on an empty stomach, the effects hit you faster, and you’ll feel drunk quicker. To handle your drinks better, eat before you start, and snack while you drink. Also, drink water to stay hydrated, and avoid snacks that make you thirsty.
4. Keep Track of Your Drinks
It’s easy to lose count of how much you’ve had to drink. A standard drink is like a regular can of beer, a small glass of wine, or a shot of spirits. But in bars and restaurants, drinks are often stronger. To be safe, set a limit for yourself and stick to it. Don’t get caught up in buying rounds of drinks, and finish one before you start another.
5. Avoid Drinking Games and Shots
Playing drinking games, taking shots, or trying to get drunk quickly can lead to bad things like too much drinking, dangerous situations, feeling embarrassed, or even alcohol poisoning.
Instead, focus on hanging out with friends, playing pool, or dancing. Also, don’t mix alcohol with energy drinks, as it can make you drink more and take more risks.
6. Don’t Drink and Drive
No amount of alcohol is safe when you’re driving. The more you drink, the more likely you are to get into a car crash, and it’s not just about you; it affects others too. Plan how you’ll get home before you go out. This might mean choosing a friend to be the sober driver, making sure you have money for a taxi, or using public transport.
7. Say No to Alcohol
There are times when it’s best to skip the booze altogether. This includes when you’re very young (under 21), pregnant, planning to have a baby, breastfeeding, feeling sad or anxious, feeling unsafe, not in the mood to drink, or taking certain medications that don’t mix well with alcohol. In these situations, the best thing to do is just not drink.