This holiday season may have the makings of a bit of a doozy. After a year off, many people welcome back friends and loved ones for holiday celebrations.
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And while it’s recommended that get-togethers remain small and selective to limit the risk of COVID-19, it’s still likely that when you’re celebrating, you might do it a little extra this year.
People drink more during the holidays, and the data proves it. There are numbers to suggest that alcohol consumption doubles from Thanksgiving to New Years, so the booze definitely flows a little more easily.
And that can lead to problems. Too much alcohol can put unneeded stress on your liver and brain and add fuel to what can be a difficult emotional time. It can also contribute to a host of long and short-term health implications.
Here are some of the ways to help manage alcohol consumption this season if you’re set to socialize and enjoy the company of others.
Drink non-alcoholic beverages. Let’s say you have a glass of wine, beer, or spirit. Before reaching for a second one, drink something without alcohol. Water, sparkling water, juice, or a non-alcoholic beer or spirit can help slow alcohol consumption and offer a few other benefits.
Other fluids can help dilute or slow the absorption of alcohol while also helping to offset alcohol’s dehydrating effects.
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Eat while you drink. Food also helps slow and limit alcohol absorption and may even reduce the risk of specific hangover symptoms.
Remember that alcohol’s effects may begin to take hold before you notice them. Space out drinks, so you get a good idea of how it affects you before having any more.
Lastly, remember to avoid drinking and driving and have a backup plan if you intend to drink at a social gathering.
About eight years ago, Mat Lecompte had an epiphany. He’d been ignoring his health and suddenly realized he needed to do something about it. Since then, through hard work, determination and plenty of education, he has transformed his life. He’s changed his body composition by learning the ins and outs of nutrition, exercise, and fitness and wants to share his knowledge with you. Starting as a journalist over 10 years ago, Mat has not only honed his belief system and approach with practical experience, but he has also worked closely with nutritionists, dieticians, athletes, and fitness professionals. He embraces natural healing methods and believes that diet, exercise and willpower are the foundation of a healthy, happy, and drug-free existence.
