
7 Shocking Rules About Alcohol You Should Know NOW!
2025-06-12
Author: Ying
As Dry January comes to a close, the urge to return to old drinking habits can be strong. But before you dive back in, consider making lasting changes to your drinking routine that don’t necessarily mean cutting alcohol out entirely.
With growing trends like "mindful drinking" and "sober curious," many are rethinking their relationship with alcohol. This could mean drinking less or just being more aware of why and when you indulge.
Alcohol Guidelines You Must Follow!
If you choose to drink, experts emphasize essential guidelines to consider. Here’s what nutritionists advise:
1. Limit Your Intake!
The CDC recommends that women should consume no more than one drink per day, while men can have up to two. Christine Byrne, a registered dietitian, clarifies that this isn’t about saving drinks for the weekend—it’s about moderation every day. In fact, bingeing on several drinks at once is far more detrimental to your health.
Remember, not all drinks are created equal. A single ‘drink’ is defined as a 12-ounce beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of liquor. So, steer clear of oversized cocktails!
2. Hydration is Key!
Between every alcoholic beverage, make sure to sip water. This not only keeps you hydrated but also slows down your drinking pace, making it easier to stick to the guidelines.
3. Never Drink on an Empty Stomach!
Drinking without eating accelerates alcohol absorption, leading to quicker intoxication. Eating while you drink can help moderate your intake and make the experience more enjoyable.
4. Don’t Swap Alcohol for Meals!
Alcohol may have calories, but it lacks the essential nutrients your body needs. Brooks warns against confusing calorie intake with nutritional quality, emphasizing that replacing meals with alcohol leads to deficiencies.
5. Know the Definition of Binge Drinking!
The CDC defines binge drinking as five or more drinks for men and four or more for women during a single occasion. It's crucial to be mindful during celebrations, as it’s easy to exceed these limits.
6. Question Your Drinking Motives!
Before pouring that next glass, ask yourself why you want to drink. If it's to unwind or socialize, consider healthier alternatives like a walk, meditation, or simply chatting with friends without alcohol.
7. Seek Help if Needed!
If you feel your drinking could be problematic, it’s important to reflect on your motivations. Consulting a trained professional can provide the support needed to reassess your habits.
Changing your relationship with alcohol isn’t easy, but with support and awareness, it's entirely possible.
Need support? In the U.S., reach out to the SAMHSA National Helpline at 800-662-HELP (4357) for guidance.