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2024-04-26 9:00
Alcohol and Health
Can You Drink Alcohol Before a Colonoscopy?
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Drinking alcohol before a colonoscopy influences the safety and success of the screening. Learn more about the effects of drinking before a colonoscopy in our latest blog.

23 min read

Navigating Drinking With Other Health Issues? Check Out Reframe!

Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!

The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.

You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.

Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol. 

And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).

The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today! 

Read Full Article  →

Colonoscopies are no glamorous procedure. To add to its unpleasantness, the procedure involves a comprehensive preparation regimen that boosts its accuracy. One of the many instructions in the prep booklet for a colonoscopy is to avoid alcohol. While testing our luck is fun and games when buying a lottery ticket, this “no drinking” guideline is one we’ll want to follow.

Understanding the risks of drinking before a colonoscopy will help us follow protocols and have a safe procedure. Let’s take a good look (no pun intended) at if and when it’s okay to drink before a colonoscopy. 

Understanding Colonoscopy Screenings

A medical professional showing an illustration of the human intestines

A colonoscopy is a screening procedure that is used to check the large intestine for abnormalities like swelling, polyps, irritated tissue, and diseases. To do this, they insert a colonoscope — a flexible tube with a tiny camera on the end — through the rectum to view the inside of our colon and surrounding areas. 

Although it’s relatively quick (typically under an hour), a colonoscopy is considered an invasive procedure that requires anesthesia and a lengthy pre-procedure regimen that ensures the physician gets a clear view of our colon. Standard colonoscopy preparation includes limiting certain substances. Let’s take a closer look at what these are.

What To Avoid Before a Colonoscopy 

Preparation for a colonoscopy typically starts three to four days before the scheduled procedure. However, it’s always important to check with our treatment team for specific instructions. 

To ensure that the gastroenterologist has an unobstructed view of our colon, we have to flush out our intestine. To do this, we are instructed to avoid certain foods and substances in the days leading up to the procedure: 

  • Fibrous foods. Foods such as raw fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds take longer to digest. If particles of undigested food remain in our bowel, it may block crucial areas that our doctor needs to see.
  • Non-clear liquids. Beverages such as milk and fruit juices with pulp are considered non-clear liquids. These liquids may leave residue in our bowel, affecting color-sensitive screening such as tissue inflammation and polyps.
  • Blood thinners. Physicians recommend avoiding blood thinners before a colonoscopy to prevent the risk of excessive bleeding during or after the operation. It may also interact with sedation that is needed for the procedure. If we are prescribed routine blood thinners, it’s best to discuss individual recommendations with our treatment team.
  • Alcohol. Patients are advised to stop drinking alcohol once starting other colonoscopy protocols. Alcohol has blood-thinning properties and other effects that can impact the procedure. 

Avoiding these four things will give us the best chance of a successful procedure. But let’s dive into how alcohol, specifically, could complicate our colonoscopy.

Drinking Alcohol Before a Colonoscopy

Most clear liquids are permitted up to two to four hours before the procedure. While most alcoholic beverages are clear liquids, they are still not allowed. 

Why? There are several reasons. Alcohol dehydrates us, impacts anesthesia (the stuff that keeps us safe and asleep), and thins our blood. All of these can complicate what would normally be a standard procedure. 

But what about just one beer? Can one sip of wine hurt?

Effects of Different Types of Alcohol on Colonoscopy Screenings

When it comes to preparing for a colonoscopy (or any procedure for that matter), all alcohol is created equal. 

Spirits, indeed, contain higher alcohol by volume, but any amount of alcohol can impact a colonoscopy. Lower-alcohol beverages such as wine or beer may produce less of an impact, but any amount of alcohol can have serious adverse effects.

Negative Effects of Drinking Alcohol Before Colonoscopy Procedures 

People get colonoscopies for one reason: to detect abnormalities. If the doctor cannot get a clear picture, the whole procedure is pointless. When we drink before the procedure, we complicate the screening in multiple ways:

  • Impacted imaging. Depending on the alcoholic beverage, alcohol can leave a residue that may mask important areas that may have abnormalities. This can affect treatment and lead to further health complications. 

  • Cognitive impairment. Alcohol is known to lower inhibitions, cloud judgment, and increase food cravings, all of which could derail pre-op protocols and interfere with successful imaging.
 
  • Dehydration. Combined with the bowel prep instructions, which are designed to eliminate fluids, alcohol can cause further dehydration, elevating the risk of kidney issues and dehydration symptoms.
  • Dangerous sedation. Alcohol affects the same system as anesthesia — making the anesthesia less effective and causing dangerous symptoms. If our treatment team is not aware, they may increase the level of sedation due to ineffectiveness. Interactions with anesthesia can lead to nausea, vomiting, aspiration, accidental awareness, and other complications.

  • Risk of infection. A colonoscopy is an invasive procedure that is prone to infections. Alcohol suppresses proper immune function, which increases the risk of developing an infection. 

Drinking before a colonoscopy opens the door to complications that can be fatal. It is imperative that we tell our medical team if we have had anything to drink in the days leading up to our procedure. We might be hesitant to say anything for fear they will reschedule the procedure, but rescheduling is a small price to pay to avoid complications. 

Risks of Drinking Before a Colonoscopy

When Should You Stop Drinking Before a Colonoscopy

We should clear our calendars of all happy hours, weddings, or other festivities two to three days before a colonoscopy. A liquid diet and bowel emptying preparation typically start two days before colonoscopy procedures are scheduled. While avoiding alcohol for a longer period before a colonoscopy is beneficial, ensuring our last drink is at least 48 hours before is crucial for our safety.

Chronic drinking is also shown to impact anesthesia, regardless of following proper protocols. Be sure to communicate clearly with the operating physician and request individual direction if needed. Colonoscopy prep seems like it involves a lot of “no’s.” Let’s get into some “yes’s” and alternatives to alcohol.

What To Drink Instead of Alcohol Before a Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy prep can be unpleasant, but it doesn’t have to be miserable. As long as the beverage is non-alcoholic and meets the clear liquid criteria, we can still enjoy it. There are plenty of alternatives that won’t impact our colonoscopy:

  • Tea
  • Coffee 
  • Soda
  • Sports drinks
  • Juices without pulp 
  • Clear mocktails

Including variety in our clear liquid diet helps make the days leading up to our procedure less miserable. Water can get a bit old after two days of just that (even if it is the liquid of life). These alternatives can help us avoid alcohol the days before a colonoscopy, but what do we do if we slip up?

What To Do If You Drink Before a Colonoscopy

If we do accidentally have a drink within 48 hours of our colonoscopy, the first thing to do is note the time of our last drink. We can then inform our treatment team to receive further guidance on how to proceed. If necessary, the colonoscopy can be postponed to a later date.

We’ve warned against drinking before the procedure, but what about after?

Can You Drink After Colonoscopy Procedures?

Drinking right after a colonoscopy may not pose an immediate risk to our health, but it may lead to adverse symptoms and produce complications during recovery.

It may take hours or days to fully metabolize anesthesia. If we drink while anesthesia is still in our system, our liver may not be able to keep up. This can lead to increased side effects from anesthesia drugs and hangover symptoms from alcohol. 

Furthermore, if any abnormalities are discovered and removed during the procedure, we might be prescribed medications. Drinking after the operation can interact with prescribed medications and also impact recovery.

When dealing with invasive procedures, the fewer complications the better. We’ve determined that alcohol is one of these complications that negatively influences the safety and outcome of colonoscopy procedures. To set us up for success, we can make intentional choices during colonoscopy preparation. 

Practicing Safe Preparation for Medical Procedures

Implementing safe practices leading up to any medical procedure helps things go more smoothly. Here are four tips we can keep in our toolbox for colonoscopies and other medical procedures:

  • Follow procedures. The long list of protocols leading up to a colonoscopy is there for a reason. It may seem extensive, but each direction helps to increase the success of the operation and keep us safe. Even though it may not seem like it at the moment, the preparation guidebook doesn’t exist just to make us suffer. 
  • Limit complicating substances. Strict guidelines for drinking and smoking may be outlined in the 24-48 hours leading up to a procedure. However, limiting substances such as alcohol and tobacco before this period and after the procedure can further prevent unwanted complications. 
  • Stay hydrated. Proper hydration seems to be recommended for everything. That’s because it’s beneficial in all aspects. Drinking plenty of water helps our cells and organs function optimally and can aid in recovery.
  • Ask questions. When in doubt, it’s always better to ask for clarification. The preparation guidelines are helpful for general safety, but since we all have individual differences and circumstances, specific directions can be most beneficial. 

Key Takeaways

A colonoscopy and the prep leading up to it can be a pain in the butt (pun intended), but a successful procedure can help catch issues before they get more serious. The procedure is short but open to a host of complications when pre-procedure guidelines aren’t followed. One of these procedures is avoiding alcohol. We may think that a sip of wine can’t hurt, but any amount of alcohol before a colonoscopy can have detrimental effects on our safety and the conclusiveness of the test. Thankfully, there are plenty of alternatives to alcohol that we can still enjoy during colonoscopy prep. Avoid alcohol and follow protocol!

Colonoscopies are no glamorous procedure. To add to its unpleasantness, the procedure involves a comprehensive preparation regimen that boosts its accuracy. One of the many instructions in the prep booklet for a colonoscopy is to avoid alcohol. While testing our luck is fun and games when buying a lottery ticket, this “no drinking” guideline is one we’ll want to follow.

Understanding the risks of drinking before a colonoscopy will help us follow protocols and have a safe procedure. Let’s take a good look (no pun intended) at if and when it’s okay to drink before a colonoscopy. 

Understanding Colonoscopy Screenings

A medical professional showing an illustration of the human intestines

A colonoscopy is a screening procedure that is used to check the large intestine for abnormalities like swelling, polyps, irritated tissue, and diseases. To do this, they insert a colonoscope — a flexible tube with a tiny camera on the end — through the rectum to view the inside of our colon and surrounding areas. 

Although it’s relatively quick (typically under an hour), a colonoscopy is considered an invasive procedure that requires anesthesia and a lengthy pre-procedure regimen that ensures the physician gets a clear view of our colon. Standard colonoscopy preparation includes limiting certain substances. Let’s take a closer look at what these are.

What To Avoid Before a Colonoscopy 

Preparation for a colonoscopy typically starts three to four days before the scheduled procedure. However, it’s always important to check with our treatment team for specific instructions. 

To ensure that the gastroenterologist has an unobstructed view of our colon, we have to flush out our intestine. To do this, we are instructed to avoid certain foods and substances in the days leading up to the procedure: 

  • Fibrous foods. Foods such as raw fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds take longer to digest. If particles of undigested food remain in our bowel, it may block crucial areas that our doctor needs to see.
  • Non-clear liquids. Beverages such as milk and fruit juices with pulp are considered non-clear liquids. These liquids may leave residue in our bowel, affecting color-sensitive screening such as tissue inflammation and polyps.
  • Blood thinners. Physicians recommend avoiding blood thinners before a colonoscopy to prevent the risk of excessive bleeding during or after the operation. It may also interact with sedation that is needed for the procedure. If we are prescribed routine blood thinners, it’s best to discuss individual recommendations with our treatment team.
  • Alcohol. Patients are advised to stop drinking alcohol once starting other colonoscopy protocols. Alcohol has blood-thinning properties and other effects that can impact the procedure. 

Avoiding these four things will give us the best chance of a successful procedure. But let’s dive into how alcohol, specifically, could complicate our colonoscopy.

Drinking Alcohol Before a Colonoscopy

Most clear liquids are permitted up to two to four hours before the procedure. While most alcoholic beverages are clear liquids, they are still not allowed. 

Why? There are several reasons. Alcohol dehydrates us, impacts anesthesia (the stuff that keeps us safe and asleep), and thins our blood. All of these can complicate what would normally be a standard procedure. 

But what about just one beer? Can one sip of wine hurt?

Effects of Different Types of Alcohol on Colonoscopy Screenings

When it comes to preparing for a colonoscopy (or any procedure for that matter), all alcohol is created equal. 

Spirits, indeed, contain higher alcohol by volume, but any amount of alcohol can impact a colonoscopy. Lower-alcohol beverages such as wine or beer may produce less of an impact, but any amount of alcohol can have serious adverse effects.

Negative Effects of Drinking Alcohol Before Colonoscopy Procedures 

People get colonoscopies for one reason: to detect abnormalities. If the doctor cannot get a clear picture, the whole procedure is pointless. When we drink before the procedure, we complicate the screening in multiple ways:

  • Impacted imaging. Depending on the alcoholic beverage, alcohol can leave a residue that may mask important areas that may have abnormalities. This can affect treatment and lead to further health complications. 

  • Cognitive impairment. Alcohol is known to lower inhibitions, cloud judgment, and increase food cravings, all of which could derail pre-op protocols and interfere with successful imaging.
 
  • Dehydration. Combined with the bowel prep instructions, which are designed to eliminate fluids, alcohol can cause further dehydration, elevating the risk of kidney issues and dehydration symptoms.
  • Dangerous sedation. Alcohol affects the same system as anesthesia — making the anesthesia less effective and causing dangerous symptoms. If our treatment team is not aware, they may increase the level of sedation due to ineffectiveness. Interactions with anesthesia can lead to nausea, vomiting, aspiration, accidental awareness, and other complications.

  • Risk of infection. A colonoscopy is an invasive procedure that is prone to infections. Alcohol suppresses proper immune function, which increases the risk of developing an infection. 

Drinking before a colonoscopy opens the door to complications that can be fatal. It is imperative that we tell our medical team if we have had anything to drink in the days leading up to our procedure. We might be hesitant to say anything for fear they will reschedule the procedure, but rescheduling is a small price to pay to avoid complications. 

Risks of Drinking Before a Colonoscopy

When Should You Stop Drinking Before a Colonoscopy

We should clear our calendars of all happy hours, weddings, or other festivities two to three days before a colonoscopy. A liquid diet and bowel emptying preparation typically start two days before colonoscopy procedures are scheduled. While avoiding alcohol for a longer period before a colonoscopy is beneficial, ensuring our last drink is at least 48 hours before is crucial for our safety.

Chronic drinking is also shown to impact anesthesia, regardless of following proper protocols. Be sure to communicate clearly with the operating physician and request individual direction if needed. Colonoscopy prep seems like it involves a lot of “no’s.” Let’s get into some “yes’s” and alternatives to alcohol.

What To Drink Instead of Alcohol Before a Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy prep can be unpleasant, but it doesn’t have to be miserable. As long as the beverage is non-alcoholic and meets the clear liquid criteria, we can still enjoy it. There are plenty of alternatives that won’t impact our colonoscopy:

  • Tea
  • Coffee 
  • Soda
  • Sports drinks
  • Juices without pulp 
  • Clear mocktails

Including variety in our clear liquid diet helps make the days leading up to our procedure less miserable. Water can get a bit old after two days of just that (even if it is the liquid of life). These alternatives can help us avoid alcohol the days before a colonoscopy, but what do we do if we slip up?

What To Do If You Drink Before a Colonoscopy

If we do accidentally have a drink within 48 hours of our colonoscopy, the first thing to do is note the time of our last drink. We can then inform our treatment team to receive further guidance on how to proceed. If necessary, the colonoscopy can be postponed to a later date.

We’ve warned against drinking before the procedure, but what about after?

Can You Drink After Colonoscopy Procedures?

Drinking right after a colonoscopy may not pose an immediate risk to our health, but it may lead to adverse symptoms and produce complications during recovery.

It may take hours or days to fully metabolize anesthesia. If we drink while anesthesia is still in our system, our liver may not be able to keep up. This can lead to increased side effects from anesthesia drugs and hangover symptoms from alcohol. 

Furthermore, if any abnormalities are discovered and removed during the procedure, we might be prescribed medications. Drinking after the operation can interact with prescribed medications and also impact recovery.

When dealing with invasive procedures, the fewer complications the better. We’ve determined that alcohol is one of these complications that negatively influences the safety and outcome of colonoscopy procedures. To set us up for success, we can make intentional choices during colonoscopy preparation. 

Practicing Safe Preparation for Medical Procedures

Implementing safe practices leading up to any medical procedure helps things go more smoothly. Here are four tips we can keep in our toolbox for colonoscopies and other medical procedures:

  • Follow procedures. The long list of protocols leading up to a colonoscopy is there for a reason. It may seem extensive, but each direction helps to increase the success of the operation and keep us safe. Even though it may not seem like it at the moment, the preparation guidebook doesn’t exist just to make us suffer. 
  • Limit complicating substances. Strict guidelines for drinking and smoking may be outlined in the 24-48 hours leading up to a procedure. However, limiting substances such as alcohol and tobacco before this period and after the procedure can further prevent unwanted complications. 
  • Stay hydrated. Proper hydration seems to be recommended for everything. That’s because it’s beneficial in all aspects. Drinking plenty of water helps our cells and organs function optimally and can aid in recovery.
  • Ask questions. When in doubt, it’s always better to ask for clarification. The preparation guidelines are helpful for general safety, but since we all have individual differences and circumstances, specific directions can be most beneficial. 

Key Takeaways

A colonoscopy and the prep leading up to it can be a pain in the butt (pun intended), but a successful procedure can help catch issues before they get more serious. The procedure is short but open to a host of complications when pre-procedure guidelines aren’t followed. One of these procedures is avoiding alcohol. We may think that a sip of wine can’t hurt, but any amount of alcohol before a colonoscopy can have detrimental effects on our safety and the conclusiveness of the test. Thankfully, there are plenty of alternatives to alcohol that we can still enjoy during colonoscopy prep. Avoid alcohol and follow protocol!

Alcohol and Health
Popular
2024-04-25 9:00
Alcohol and Health
What Is Cane Alcohol? Is It Bad for You?
This is some text inside of a div block.

Organic cane alcohol can sound like a better choice than conventional grain alcohol. But that’s not the case. Check out our latest blog for more info on the adverse effects of cane alcohol.

19 min read

Trying To Approach Alcohol Consumption Safely? Reframe Can Help!

Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!

The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.

You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.

Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol. 

And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).

The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!

Read Full Article  →

Organic, natural, and non-GMO, among many other labels, are supposedly “better” alternatives to a normal generic product. But what about organic cane alcohol? We know that there are harmful effects of drinking alcoholic beverages and may be looking for a better option. 

On the surface, cane alcohol can seem like a viable alternative to other alcoholic beverages we may be more familiar with. However, a deeper dive into its adverse effects may suggest otherwise. Let’s further examine what it is and evaluate if it's a healthier option so we can make more well-informed alcohol choices. 

What Is Cane Alcohol?

A glass decanter filled with wine, on a table

Cane alcohol is alcohol that is made from the sugar cane plant. The two main types of cane alcohol are pure cane alcohol and alcohol made from molasses — which we know as rum.

Pure cane alcohol is made from organic sugar cane. The plant is cut and milled with water to produce raw sugar cane juice, which is then heated to remove the impurities. The sugar cane juice is fermented and distilled multiple times to reach a high level of purity, which organic cane alcohol is known for. Rum, on the other hand, is made from fermentation of molasses, a byproduct of the sugar-making process. It falls under the general category of cane alcohol but is distinct from pure cane alcohol.

Pure organic cane alcohol is known for its neutral taste and purity, making it adaptable to many different uses.

How Is Organic Cane Alcohol Used? 

Organic cane alcohol is used in a variety of different industries aside from alcoholic beverage companies. Some of its other uses include the following:

  • Production of pharmaceuticals. Cane alcohol is a quality solvent and is commonly used in producing over-the-counter and prescription medications.
  • Base for perfumes and cosmetics. The purity and neutrality of cane alcohol make it a perfect base for perfumes and cosmetics. It serves as a great solvent for fragrances and colors to be mixed and made into beauty products.
  • Preservative. Pure cane alcohol is commonly used as a preservative due to its high alcohol content. It prevents the growth of unwanted bacteria in skin care products and in flavorings and colorants used in the food industry.
  • Disinfectant. The high alcohol content gives cane alcohol its disinfectant properties. Cane alcohol is used in cleaning products, hand sanitizers, mouthwash, and more.

Cane alcohol is versatile, not just in its applications within different industries but also in the types of alcoholic beverages it can create.

Types of Cane Alcohol Approved for Consumption 

Pure cane alcohol, which is pure alcohol at 98% alcohol by volume, is used to make distilled alcoholic beverages such as liqueurs, vodkas, and bitters. Legality varies widely by country and region. When purchasing or consuming cane alcohol, it’s important to check regional regulations.

Cane alcoholic drinks are extremely popular in Brazil. Three of the most notable include cachaça, aguardente de cana, and simple alcoholic sugar cane distillate — all made from sugar cane juice. Each varies in ABV and has its own minimum and maximum ABV regulations in Brazil.

While cane alcoholic beverages are popular in Brazil, rum is the most popular cane alcohol approved for consumption in the U.S. According to the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), rum may not exceed 95% alcohol by volume but can vary in regulations depending on the area. 

So is cane alcohol really so bad, given its popularity and various uses?

Is Organic Cane Alcohol Bad for You?

Organic sugar cane alcohol in the context of cosmetics preservation and pharmaceuticals can be a great alternative to synthetically produced chemicals. However, in the context of alcoholic beverages, being derived from an organic plant doesn’t negate the toxicity of alcohol. 

Just the way a basket of french fries or a carton of apple juice doesn't count as our serving of fruits and vegetables for the day, alcohol made from a plant doesn’t exactly make it a green juice. Organic cane alcohol has the same harmful effects as other alcoholic beverages that are made from other plants. It goes through the same fermentation process that creates alcohol by turning sugar into ethanol. When we consume ethanol, it’s broken down into a toxic compound known as acetaldehyde — the culprit of many of alcohol’s detrimental effects.

A particular study focused on sugar cane spirits found that their consumption produced anxiolytic-like effects in mice, reducing their inhibitions and causing them to behave out of the ordinary, while also causing them liver injury. While the alcohol content in organic cane alcohol can vary depending on the type of alcoholic beverage, it still contains toxic compounds that harm our health. 

So, we’ve learned that cane alcohol has the same harmful effects as grain alcohol, but let’s dive into the difference a little more.

Comparing Grain and Cane Alcohol

Grain and cane alcohol are similar in that they have various uses, and they’re both derived from plants: cane alcohol is from sugar cane and grain alcohol is from other grains such as corn, wheat, or barley. But grain and cane alcohol are distinct due to three main differences:

  • Sustainability. Sugar cane is more eco-friendly than grains as it requires less land and energy to farm. One sugar cane plant can yield seven harvests, whereas some plants such as corn would yield only one. This makes cane alcohol better for the environment and more cost-efficient to produce. 
  • Presence of gluten. Since cane alcohol is made from the sugar cane plant, it doesn’t contain gluten like most grain alcohols. This makes cane alcohol a better gluten-free alternative for those of us who are gluten intolerant or diagnosed with celiac disease. 
  • Popularity. Grain alcohol is more popular than cane alcohol in the U.S. due to the high availability of grains. Sugar cane is a tropical plant mostly grown in warm areas such as Brazil, India, and China — making cane alcohol more popular in these areas.

While sugar cane alcohol has some benefits over grain alcohol, consuming cane alcohol is still associated with many risks.

Risks of Consuming Sugar Cane Alcohol

Sugar cane alcohol is just like any other alcohol in that it is a toxic compound that opens the door to many different complications and consequences. Some of the issues that drinking alcohol leads to include the following:

  • Acute health effects. Alcohol depresses our central nervous system, which affects functions such as our coordination, judgment, and thinking. It also disrupts our blood pressure, impacts our blood sugar, and decreases our immune function. In short, drinking impacts all of the systems in our body, decreasing overall function. Another specific study on the effect of sugar cane alcohol in mice showed that consumption had negative effects on their nutritional and metabolic health.
  • Long-term health impacts. Prolonged exposure to the toxins in alcohol directly increases the risk of developing diseases and cancers. Long-term health conditions are the leading cause of alcohol-related mortalities.
  • Mental health issues. The stimulant and depressant effects of alcohol create mood fluctuations and can impact our stress response over time. Excess drinking is linked with poor mental health and can also lead to other mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression.
  • Risk of dependence. Alcohol is a drug that can cause dependence and misuse. Cane alcohol typically contains a high alcohol content, adding to these risks.

Due to the way sugar cane alcohol is presented, it also comes with its own risk factors. 

  • Fluctuating alcohol content. Pure cane alcohol can come in varying levels of ABV. When mixing drinks at home (common in crafting cane alcoholic beverages), it can be difficult to determine the alcohol content in our drink. Cane alcohol is also made into distilled spirits such as rum. Distilled spirits have a high alcohol content, adding to their dangers.
  • Common misconceptions. False beliefs about cane alcohol can make it more dangerous. For example, if we believe cane alcohol has health benefits, we may be more prone to excessive consumption

Let’s clear up some of the confusion surrounding organic cane alcohol so we can make well-informed decisions about drinking.

Clearing Up Common Misconceptions About Cane Alcohol

Cane alcohol, specifically organic cane alcohol, is associated with many common misconceptions, such as: 

  • Organic cane alcohol is better for our health. Cane alcohol and grain alcohol both contain the same toxic compounds. Cane alcohol may be better for those of us who are gluten intolerant or celiac, but it is not better for our health than grain alcohol. 
  • Organic means nothing toxic. Grain and cane alcohol both come in organic varieties. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), certified organic products must not contain more than 5% nonorganic ingredients. Synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, growth hormones, and genetic engineering are prohibited. However, organic products can still have residue of these substances as long as it doesn’t exceed the 5% mark. Decreasing exposure to pesticides and chemicals is beneficial; however, it’s important to note that organic alcohol doesn’t take away the toxicity of alcohol. Alcohol is still alcohol.
  • Cane alcohol has high levels of antioxidants. Sugar cane is high in antioxidants, which help get rid of free radicals, the molecules that cause cell damage. However, research shows that alcohol causes oxidative stress, creating an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants. This can counteract the antioxidant levels found in sugar cane.

After we understand exactly what cane alcohol is we are able to consume more mindfully and safely.

Navigating Safe Cane Alcohol Consumption

Navigating Safe Cane Alcohol Consumption

As we’ve learned, consuming cane alcohol comes with many risks. If we choose to drink cane alcohol, we can limit its negative consequences through mindful drinking practices:

  • Learn more. Alcohol itself is a complex substance that interacts with our body in multifarious ways. The confusing aspects of cane alcohol can further add to its complexity. From a quick glance, organic cane alcohol doesn’t sound too bad compared to Everclear and other better known substances. However, learning more about organic cane alcohol’s negative effects can help us better understand the consequences and consume more mindfully.
  • Quit or cut back on alcohol. Although alcohol is such a large part of our social culture, at the end of the day, it’s still a toxic substance that can have substantial impacts on our well-being. Finding alternatives and seeking support are ways we can reduce our overall alcohol consumption.
  • Keep track. Tracking our alcohol consumption helps us identify any triggers we may have and helps us set intentional goals to quit or cut back. 
  • Manage other facets of our health. We’ve established that alcohol is detrimental to our health. However, other substances and activities can also be harmful to our well-being. Aside from quitting or cutting back on alcohol, prioritizing a balanced diet, connecting with others, and engaging in physical activities can improve our overall health.

Mindfully approaching cane alcohol and alcohol in general can help minimize its adverse effects. However, at the end of the day, alcohol is still alcohol, no matter if it’s organic or derived from a sugar cane plant.

Without “Sugarcoating” It

We may have all been duped at some point in our lives by product labeling. Free-range, all-natural, and organic may not always be what we think. Debunking common myths about organic cane alcohol helps us see it for what it is. Pure cane alcohol is a useful, eco-friendly substance when used in the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and food industries. However, as an alcoholic beverage, organic cane alcohol has the same toxic effects as grain alcohol, which we may be more familiar with. The lack of clarity and regulations surrounding cane alcohol makes it even more dangerous than other alcoholic beverages. Gain a better relationship with alcohol by cutting back, whether it be from grain or cane!

Organic, natural, and non-GMO, among many other labels, are supposedly “better” alternatives to a normal generic product. But what about organic cane alcohol? We know that there are harmful effects of drinking alcoholic beverages and may be looking for a better option. 

On the surface, cane alcohol can seem like a viable alternative to other alcoholic beverages we may be more familiar with. However, a deeper dive into its adverse effects may suggest otherwise. Let’s further examine what it is and evaluate if it's a healthier option so we can make more well-informed alcohol choices. 

What Is Cane Alcohol?

A glass decanter filled with wine, on a table

Cane alcohol is alcohol that is made from the sugar cane plant. The two main types of cane alcohol are pure cane alcohol and alcohol made from molasses — which we know as rum.

Pure cane alcohol is made from organic sugar cane. The plant is cut and milled with water to produce raw sugar cane juice, which is then heated to remove the impurities. The sugar cane juice is fermented and distilled multiple times to reach a high level of purity, which organic cane alcohol is known for. Rum, on the other hand, is made from fermentation of molasses, a byproduct of the sugar-making process. It falls under the general category of cane alcohol but is distinct from pure cane alcohol.

Pure organic cane alcohol is known for its neutral taste and purity, making it adaptable to many different uses.

How Is Organic Cane Alcohol Used? 

Organic cane alcohol is used in a variety of different industries aside from alcoholic beverage companies. Some of its other uses include the following:

  • Production of pharmaceuticals. Cane alcohol is a quality solvent and is commonly used in producing over-the-counter and prescription medications.
  • Base for perfumes and cosmetics. The purity and neutrality of cane alcohol make it a perfect base for perfumes and cosmetics. It serves as a great solvent for fragrances and colors to be mixed and made into beauty products.
  • Preservative. Pure cane alcohol is commonly used as a preservative due to its high alcohol content. It prevents the growth of unwanted bacteria in skin care products and in flavorings and colorants used in the food industry.
  • Disinfectant. The high alcohol content gives cane alcohol its disinfectant properties. Cane alcohol is used in cleaning products, hand sanitizers, mouthwash, and more.

Cane alcohol is versatile, not just in its applications within different industries but also in the types of alcoholic beverages it can create.

Types of Cane Alcohol Approved for Consumption 

Pure cane alcohol, which is pure alcohol at 98% alcohol by volume, is used to make distilled alcoholic beverages such as liqueurs, vodkas, and bitters. Legality varies widely by country and region. When purchasing or consuming cane alcohol, it’s important to check regional regulations.

Cane alcoholic drinks are extremely popular in Brazil. Three of the most notable include cachaça, aguardente de cana, and simple alcoholic sugar cane distillate — all made from sugar cane juice. Each varies in ABV and has its own minimum and maximum ABV regulations in Brazil.

While cane alcoholic beverages are popular in Brazil, rum is the most popular cane alcohol approved for consumption in the U.S. According to the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), rum may not exceed 95% alcohol by volume but can vary in regulations depending on the area. 

So is cane alcohol really so bad, given its popularity and various uses?

Is Organic Cane Alcohol Bad for You?

Organic sugar cane alcohol in the context of cosmetics preservation and pharmaceuticals can be a great alternative to synthetically produced chemicals. However, in the context of alcoholic beverages, being derived from an organic plant doesn’t negate the toxicity of alcohol. 

Just the way a basket of french fries or a carton of apple juice doesn't count as our serving of fruits and vegetables for the day, alcohol made from a plant doesn’t exactly make it a green juice. Organic cane alcohol has the same harmful effects as other alcoholic beverages that are made from other plants. It goes through the same fermentation process that creates alcohol by turning sugar into ethanol. When we consume ethanol, it’s broken down into a toxic compound known as acetaldehyde — the culprit of many of alcohol’s detrimental effects.

A particular study focused on sugar cane spirits found that their consumption produced anxiolytic-like effects in mice, reducing their inhibitions and causing them to behave out of the ordinary, while also causing them liver injury. While the alcohol content in organic cane alcohol can vary depending on the type of alcoholic beverage, it still contains toxic compounds that harm our health. 

So, we’ve learned that cane alcohol has the same harmful effects as grain alcohol, but let’s dive into the difference a little more.

Comparing Grain and Cane Alcohol

Grain and cane alcohol are similar in that they have various uses, and they’re both derived from plants: cane alcohol is from sugar cane and grain alcohol is from other grains such as corn, wheat, or barley. But grain and cane alcohol are distinct due to three main differences:

  • Sustainability. Sugar cane is more eco-friendly than grains as it requires less land and energy to farm. One sugar cane plant can yield seven harvests, whereas some plants such as corn would yield only one. This makes cane alcohol better for the environment and more cost-efficient to produce. 
  • Presence of gluten. Since cane alcohol is made from the sugar cane plant, it doesn’t contain gluten like most grain alcohols. This makes cane alcohol a better gluten-free alternative for those of us who are gluten intolerant or diagnosed with celiac disease. 
  • Popularity. Grain alcohol is more popular than cane alcohol in the U.S. due to the high availability of grains. Sugar cane is a tropical plant mostly grown in warm areas such as Brazil, India, and China — making cane alcohol more popular in these areas.

While sugar cane alcohol has some benefits over grain alcohol, consuming cane alcohol is still associated with many risks.

Risks of Consuming Sugar Cane Alcohol

Sugar cane alcohol is just like any other alcohol in that it is a toxic compound that opens the door to many different complications and consequences. Some of the issues that drinking alcohol leads to include the following:

  • Acute health effects. Alcohol depresses our central nervous system, which affects functions such as our coordination, judgment, and thinking. It also disrupts our blood pressure, impacts our blood sugar, and decreases our immune function. In short, drinking impacts all of the systems in our body, decreasing overall function. Another specific study on the effect of sugar cane alcohol in mice showed that consumption had negative effects on their nutritional and metabolic health.
  • Long-term health impacts. Prolonged exposure to the toxins in alcohol directly increases the risk of developing diseases and cancers. Long-term health conditions are the leading cause of alcohol-related mortalities.
  • Mental health issues. The stimulant and depressant effects of alcohol create mood fluctuations and can impact our stress response over time. Excess drinking is linked with poor mental health and can also lead to other mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression.
  • Risk of dependence. Alcohol is a drug that can cause dependence and misuse. Cane alcohol typically contains a high alcohol content, adding to these risks.

Due to the way sugar cane alcohol is presented, it also comes with its own risk factors. 

  • Fluctuating alcohol content. Pure cane alcohol can come in varying levels of ABV. When mixing drinks at home (common in crafting cane alcoholic beverages), it can be difficult to determine the alcohol content in our drink. Cane alcohol is also made into distilled spirits such as rum. Distilled spirits have a high alcohol content, adding to their dangers.
  • Common misconceptions. False beliefs about cane alcohol can make it more dangerous. For example, if we believe cane alcohol has health benefits, we may be more prone to excessive consumption

Let’s clear up some of the confusion surrounding organic cane alcohol so we can make well-informed decisions about drinking.

Clearing Up Common Misconceptions About Cane Alcohol

Cane alcohol, specifically organic cane alcohol, is associated with many common misconceptions, such as: 

  • Organic cane alcohol is better for our health. Cane alcohol and grain alcohol both contain the same toxic compounds. Cane alcohol may be better for those of us who are gluten intolerant or celiac, but it is not better for our health than grain alcohol. 
  • Organic means nothing toxic. Grain and cane alcohol both come in organic varieties. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), certified organic products must not contain more than 5% nonorganic ingredients. Synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, growth hormones, and genetic engineering are prohibited. However, organic products can still have residue of these substances as long as it doesn’t exceed the 5% mark. Decreasing exposure to pesticides and chemicals is beneficial; however, it’s important to note that organic alcohol doesn’t take away the toxicity of alcohol. Alcohol is still alcohol.
  • Cane alcohol has high levels of antioxidants. Sugar cane is high in antioxidants, which help get rid of free radicals, the molecules that cause cell damage. However, research shows that alcohol causes oxidative stress, creating an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants. This can counteract the antioxidant levels found in sugar cane.

After we understand exactly what cane alcohol is we are able to consume more mindfully and safely.

Navigating Safe Cane Alcohol Consumption

Navigating Safe Cane Alcohol Consumption

As we’ve learned, consuming cane alcohol comes with many risks. If we choose to drink cane alcohol, we can limit its negative consequences through mindful drinking practices:

  • Learn more. Alcohol itself is a complex substance that interacts with our body in multifarious ways. The confusing aspects of cane alcohol can further add to its complexity. From a quick glance, organic cane alcohol doesn’t sound too bad compared to Everclear and other better known substances. However, learning more about organic cane alcohol’s negative effects can help us better understand the consequences and consume more mindfully.
  • Quit or cut back on alcohol. Although alcohol is such a large part of our social culture, at the end of the day, it’s still a toxic substance that can have substantial impacts on our well-being. Finding alternatives and seeking support are ways we can reduce our overall alcohol consumption.
  • Keep track. Tracking our alcohol consumption helps us identify any triggers we may have and helps us set intentional goals to quit or cut back. 
  • Manage other facets of our health. We’ve established that alcohol is detrimental to our health. However, other substances and activities can also be harmful to our well-being. Aside from quitting or cutting back on alcohol, prioritizing a balanced diet, connecting with others, and engaging in physical activities can improve our overall health.

Mindfully approaching cane alcohol and alcohol in general can help minimize its adverse effects. However, at the end of the day, alcohol is still alcohol, no matter if it’s organic or derived from a sugar cane plant.

Without “Sugarcoating” It

We may have all been duped at some point in our lives by product labeling. Free-range, all-natural, and organic may not always be what we think. Debunking common myths about organic cane alcohol helps us see it for what it is. Pure cane alcohol is a useful, eco-friendly substance when used in the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and food industries. However, as an alcoholic beverage, organic cane alcohol has the same toxic effects as grain alcohol, which we may be more familiar with. The lack of clarity and regulations surrounding cane alcohol makes it even more dangerous than other alcoholic beverages. Gain a better relationship with alcohol by cutting back, whether it be from grain or cane!

Alcohol and Health
Popular
2024-04-09 9:00
Alcohol and Health
Can I Drink Alcohol After Having a Stent Fitted?
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Is it safe to drink alcohol after getting a stent fitted for heart attacks or other related conditions? Learn the science and best practices for your heart health.

19 min read

Show Your Heart Some Love by Quitting or Cutting Back on Alcohol With Reframe!

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And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).

The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today! 

Read Full Article  →

Whether you’ve ever experienced heart problems, or they run in your family, or you're simply wanting to be more proactive about your heart health, you’ve come to the right place! February also happens to be Heart Health Month in the U.S., so what better way to celebrate than by educating yourself about the relationship between our heart health and alcohol. 

If you’ve ever had a stent fitted or know someone who has, you may be wondering if you’ll ever be able to get back to your old self. “Do I have to give up Chick-fil-A for good?” “Will I be able to get back to long-distance running?” “Can I drink alcohol after having a stent fitted?”

Only your doctor can definitively answer questions about your prognosis, but we can touch on the alcohol-related side of things. Let’s explore and find out: Can you drink alcohol with stents in your heart? And how soon after a heart attack can you drink alcohol?

How and Why Stents Are Used

Person experiencing chest discomfort

A stent is a small tube that a doctor installs inside one of our arteries to open it up after it’s been blocked by either cholesterol or fat buildup that was limiting — or, in the case of a heart attack, completely stopping — blood from flowing through our heart and to the rest of our body. 

Once a doctor removes the buildup that was causing the blockage in the artery, a stent is then placed to prevent further stress to that area. Think of your coronary arteries as mining tunnels — a stent acts as a support structure to keep the tunnel from collapsing.

Simply put, our coronary arteries are a big deal! A completely blocked coronary artery will cause a heart attack. The classic signs and symptoms of a heart attack include crushing chest pain or pressure, shoulder or arm pain, shortness of breath, and sweating. Women are more likely to have atypical symptoms, such as neck or jaw pain, nausea, or unusual fatigue.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately, especially if you’ve already had a heart attack or have a stent in place.

Who Needs a Stent? 

Stents are typically used for those of us who have experienced heart problems such as a heart attack. They’re also used when we have advanced atherosclerosis, a condition that involves plaque collecting inside an artery. However, stents can be used for other conditions that aren’t related to the heart but are related to circulation and blood flow.

Here are some additional conditions that may require a stent:

  • Peripheral artery disease (PAD), a specific type of atherosclerosis in the arms and legs that causes dysfunction, pain, and numbness.

  • Carotid artery disease (CAD), a type of atherosclerosis in the carotid artery, the essential express lane that allows oxygen-rich blood to travel directly from the heart to the brain. CAD causes decreased blood flow to the brain and can lead to stroke.

  • Renal artery stenosis (RAS), where the arteries in our kidneys narrow from any cause (including atherosclerosis). RAS can cause high blood pressure (hypertension) and kidney disease, including kidney failure.

  • Aneurysms are a weakening of the walls of a blood vessel. They often show up in imaging as a bulging area of a blood vessel that should be smooth. When blood pressure rises, the wall can rupture and cause internal bleeding. Stents are used to reduce pressure on the vessel wall.

Just like stents help increase blood flow when our hearts are blocked, they also help increase blood flow through our bodies when we have another blockage, such as deep vein thrombosis (a blood clot in your leg, arm, or pelvis) or an aneurysm. They can also help with blockages in airways for someone experiencing a blockage in their lungs, for example. However, stents are most commonly used to prevent further damage after a heart attack.

Alcohol and Heart Attacks

As we mentioned, stents are often used after heart attacks to shore up the structure of the blood vessel that was blocked during the attack. Unfortunately, alcohol has many detrimental effects on the heart. But can alcohol cause cardiac arrest?

Does Alcohol Cause Heart Attacks?

Drinking alcohol is linked to a number of poor health outcomes, including heart conditions. Excessive alcohol intake can lead to high blood pressure, heart failure, or stroke — but can alcohol give you a heart attack?

Excessive drinking can also contribute to cardiomyopathy, a disorder that affects the heart muscle, and can contribute to conditions associated with heart attacks, such as diabetes, obesity, clotting, high blood pressure, and atrial fibrillation.

In general, it’s best to avoid alcohol if you’re concerned about heart health. And if you’ve already had a heart attack, it’s even more important.

How Soon After a Heart Attack Can I Drink Alcohol?

We don’t recommend drinking alcohol after a heart attack or stent placement, but for those of us who do choose to consume alcohol, it’s important to exercise caution. Speak to a healthcare provider about your individual case and medical history. For some of us, it may be safe to drink a glass of wine after a week or so; whereas, for others, it may be best to wait up to a month or more or to cut out alcohol completely. 

The takeaway is this: If we choose to drink alcohol, it’s important to practice moderation. Remember, there is no “safe” level of alcohol, only best practices for reducing the risk of harm.

Now, back to stents!

How Does the Stent Procedure Work?

The clinical term for a heart stent procedure is percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or angioplasty. The procedure is usually done using a local anesthetic, though we’ll likely be given medication to help us relax.

An inflatable catheter (called a “balloon”) is inserted into a blood vessel, typically through our wrist. Once the doctor determines the target location, the stent is placed using special X-ray equipment. The balloon is inflated, and the stent is expanded around it. Then the balloon is deflated, leaving the stent in place. 

After the procedure, we will likely be required to take blood thinners or other medications to ensure our arteries remain open and the blood continues to flow freely, as it should.

What Should I Avoid After I Get a Stent?

The recovery process after getting a stent fitted depends on the seriousness of the preceding event. It’s always important to speak with our healthcare provider and ask detailed questions. To protect our well-being, it’s important to be honest and open with our doctor. 

But generally, here are a few things to avoid at least for a few days after a stent procedure:

  • Heavy lifting
  • Strenuous exercise
  • Stressful activities (for example, returning to work right away)
  • Drinking alcohol

All of this sounds like a drag — but hey, it’s better than the alternative! After your recovery period, you’ll be able to get back to your normal self. However, you will likely have to adjust to a different lifestyle with healthier choices. Say goodbye to your regular fried chicken sandwich for lunch!

But wait, can you drink alcohol with stents in your heart? Let’s find out!

Post-Stent Procedure Guidelines for Alcohol Consumption

Can I Drink Alcohol After Getting a Stent Fitted?

As we’ve reiterated throughout the article, we recommend speaking with your doctor about this before you go for a drink. Everyone’s recovery process is different, and we all react differently to medical procedures. Depending on overall health, a few drinks might not kill us, but drinking alcohol at this stage poses a lot of risks. Here are the big ones:

  • Atrial fibrillation (AFib). AFib is a common heart rhythm disorder, and alcohol is the most common trigger of episodes. AFib feels like a flutter in the chest. This can lead to exhaustion, dizziness, lightheadedness, heart attack, and stroke. Don’t chance it!

  • Blood pressure fluctuations. Alcohol causes swings to your blood pressure, putting extra strain on your body and heart.

  • Medication interactions. After a stent placement (and maybe before), we’ll likely be taking a blood thinner, aspirin, a statin (anti-cholesterol med), and maybe a pain medication. In any case, alcohol interacts with all drugs typically used after a stent placement. At high amounts, this interaction can be fatal.

Let’s face it, if we’ve just had a stent placed, we probably have more than the average health considerations to take into account! We’re healing not only from the procedure, but we’re in the process of recovering from whatever condition led to the placement of the stent. To optimize heart and blood health and give our body the best chance at healing, it’s best to take it easy and avoid stressing our body out with alcohol.

When To Call a Doctor

Seek medical attention or dial 911 if you experience any of these symptoms after a stent procedure: 

  • Bleeding, swelling, discharge, or numbness
  • Fever or chills
  • Faintness or dizziness
  • Abnormal (too slow or too fast) pulse
  • Chest pain

Although the angioplasty and stent will help the blood circulate better, that doesn’t mean we’re completely off the hook! We still need to do our part to live a healthy lifestyle. That means eating healthy foods, exercising, avoiding tobacco products, and limiting alcohol. 

What Is Drinking in Moderation?

Moderation is key to overall health and a healthy relationship with alcohol. We may have heard the term “moderation” thrown around a lot, but what does it actually mean?

Moderation means consuming alcoholic beverages in reasonable limits that mitigate risks to health. Moderation implies a balanced and controlled approach to drinking. It’s typically defined as less than one drink per day for women and fewer than two drinks per day for men. 

Moderation entails making intentional and informed decisions about the quantity and frequency of our alcohol intake. Mindful drinking prioritizes our health goals and allows us to avoid negative consequences such as impaired judgment or dependency. To learn more about how mindful drinking benefits overall well-being, check out our article about health benefits of cutting back on drinking

Luckily, life offers many options for enjoying ourselves without drinking alcohol. Let’s take a look at how we can protect our heart health with sobriety!

Healthy Alternatives to Drinking Alcohol

Many of us have heard that a glass of red wine is good for heart health. So is that an invitation to drink our daily glass (and then some) if we’re on a path of healing our heart?

Think again! We wish it were that simple. Most of those studies have been debunked, or it was proven that we get all the benefits of drinking red wine by just drinking non-alcoholic grape juice (without the negative effects of alcohol).

Luckily, there are heart-healthy ways to enjoy a “drink” without alcohol. In fact, this time of healing can stand as the beginning of a greater journey toward sobriety or mindfully reduced drinking. Let’s look at some healthy alternatives to drinking alcohol after getting a stent placed.

  • Opt for a mocktail. We love mocktails here at Reframe. They give us the feeling of drinking a cocktail without the negative effects! Check out these healthy (and fun!) mocktail recipes or try ordering a mocktail at a bar — best of all, mocktails are often free (or very cheap!). 
  • Try non-alcoholic wine or beer. You may be scrunching up your nose at the idea of non-alcoholic beer or wine, but if you’re really craving the flavor, give one of these a try. With the rise of the sober-curious movement, N/A beers are increasingly common and fancy. Many craft breweries have N/A options, and there are even entire breweries dedicated to making a variety of craft N/A beer styles. There’s no harm in trying! You may end up really enjoying the flavor without the results (or price tag) of alcoholic beer.
  • Juice it up. Juices and smoothies are a healthy alternative to drinking and also can be made with heart-healthy ingredients like fruits, veggies, nuts, and seeds. On top of that, they’re easy to make — delicious! Consider a detox drink packed with nutrients like Vitamin C, B, and antioxidants (think blueberries) or inflammation-busting ingredients like citrus or turmeric.

Whether we’re recovering from heart surgery or taking a break from drinking for other health reasons, there are many benefits to an alcohol-free lifestyle worth exploring.

The Bottom Line

Although it’s not technically a “no-no” to drink alcohol after having a stent fitted, the best idea is to exercise caution with anything that could potentially put us at risk or cause any complications — especially when we’re dealing with matters of the heart! Our hearts are really the heartbeat of our entire well-being. As always, Reframe is here to help us all make positive changes that benefit our health.

Whether you’ve ever experienced heart problems, or they run in your family, or you're simply wanting to be more proactive about your heart health, you’ve come to the right place! February also happens to be Heart Health Month in the U.S., so what better way to celebrate than by educating yourself about the relationship between our heart health and alcohol. 

If you’ve ever had a stent fitted or know someone who has, you may be wondering if you’ll ever be able to get back to your old self. “Do I have to give up Chick-fil-A for good?” “Will I be able to get back to long-distance running?” “Can I drink alcohol after having a stent fitted?”

Only your doctor can definitively answer questions about your prognosis, but we can touch on the alcohol-related side of things. Let’s explore and find out: Can you drink alcohol with stents in your heart? And how soon after a heart attack can you drink alcohol?

How and Why Stents Are Used

Person experiencing chest discomfort

A stent is a small tube that a doctor installs inside one of our arteries to open it up after it’s been blocked by either cholesterol or fat buildup that was limiting — or, in the case of a heart attack, completely stopping — blood from flowing through our heart and to the rest of our body. 

Once a doctor removes the buildup that was causing the blockage in the artery, a stent is then placed to prevent further stress to that area. Think of your coronary arteries as mining tunnels — a stent acts as a support structure to keep the tunnel from collapsing.

Simply put, our coronary arteries are a big deal! A completely blocked coronary artery will cause a heart attack. The classic signs and symptoms of a heart attack include crushing chest pain or pressure, shoulder or arm pain, shortness of breath, and sweating. Women are more likely to have atypical symptoms, such as neck or jaw pain, nausea, or unusual fatigue.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately, especially if you’ve already had a heart attack or have a stent in place.

Who Needs a Stent? 

Stents are typically used for those of us who have experienced heart problems such as a heart attack. They’re also used when we have advanced atherosclerosis, a condition that involves plaque collecting inside an artery. However, stents can be used for other conditions that aren’t related to the heart but are related to circulation and blood flow.

Here are some additional conditions that may require a stent:

  • Peripheral artery disease (PAD), a specific type of atherosclerosis in the arms and legs that causes dysfunction, pain, and numbness.

  • Carotid artery disease (CAD), a type of atherosclerosis in the carotid artery, the essential express lane that allows oxygen-rich blood to travel directly from the heart to the brain. CAD causes decreased blood flow to the brain and can lead to stroke.

  • Renal artery stenosis (RAS), where the arteries in our kidneys narrow from any cause (including atherosclerosis). RAS can cause high blood pressure (hypertension) and kidney disease, including kidney failure.

  • Aneurysms are a weakening of the walls of a blood vessel. They often show up in imaging as a bulging area of a blood vessel that should be smooth. When blood pressure rises, the wall can rupture and cause internal bleeding. Stents are used to reduce pressure on the vessel wall.

Just like stents help increase blood flow when our hearts are blocked, they also help increase blood flow through our bodies when we have another blockage, such as deep vein thrombosis (a blood clot in your leg, arm, or pelvis) or an aneurysm. They can also help with blockages in airways for someone experiencing a blockage in their lungs, for example. However, stents are most commonly used to prevent further damage after a heart attack.

Alcohol and Heart Attacks

As we mentioned, stents are often used after heart attacks to shore up the structure of the blood vessel that was blocked during the attack. Unfortunately, alcohol has many detrimental effects on the heart. But can alcohol cause cardiac arrest?

Does Alcohol Cause Heart Attacks?

Drinking alcohol is linked to a number of poor health outcomes, including heart conditions. Excessive alcohol intake can lead to high blood pressure, heart failure, or stroke — but can alcohol give you a heart attack?

Excessive drinking can also contribute to cardiomyopathy, a disorder that affects the heart muscle, and can contribute to conditions associated with heart attacks, such as diabetes, obesity, clotting, high blood pressure, and atrial fibrillation.

In general, it’s best to avoid alcohol if you’re concerned about heart health. And if you’ve already had a heart attack, it’s even more important.

How Soon After a Heart Attack Can I Drink Alcohol?

We don’t recommend drinking alcohol after a heart attack or stent placement, but for those of us who do choose to consume alcohol, it’s important to exercise caution. Speak to a healthcare provider about your individual case and medical history. For some of us, it may be safe to drink a glass of wine after a week or so; whereas, for others, it may be best to wait up to a month or more or to cut out alcohol completely. 

The takeaway is this: If we choose to drink alcohol, it’s important to practice moderation. Remember, there is no “safe” level of alcohol, only best practices for reducing the risk of harm.

Now, back to stents!

How Does the Stent Procedure Work?

The clinical term for a heart stent procedure is percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or angioplasty. The procedure is usually done using a local anesthetic, though we’ll likely be given medication to help us relax.

An inflatable catheter (called a “balloon”) is inserted into a blood vessel, typically through our wrist. Once the doctor determines the target location, the stent is placed using special X-ray equipment. The balloon is inflated, and the stent is expanded around it. Then the balloon is deflated, leaving the stent in place. 

After the procedure, we will likely be required to take blood thinners or other medications to ensure our arteries remain open and the blood continues to flow freely, as it should.

What Should I Avoid After I Get a Stent?

The recovery process after getting a stent fitted depends on the seriousness of the preceding event. It’s always important to speak with our healthcare provider and ask detailed questions. To protect our well-being, it’s important to be honest and open with our doctor. 

But generally, here are a few things to avoid at least for a few days after a stent procedure:

  • Heavy lifting
  • Strenuous exercise
  • Stressful activities (for example, returning to work right away)
  • Drinking alcohol

All of this sounds like a drag — but hey, it’s better than the alternative! After your recovery period, you’ll be able to get back to your normal self. However, you will likely have to adjust to a different lifestyle with healthier choices. Say goodbye to your regular fried chicken sandwich for lunch!

But wait, can you drink alcohol with stents in your heart? Let’s find out!

Post-Stent Procedure Guidelines for Alcohol Consumption

Can I Drink Alcohol After Getting a Stent Fitted?

As we’ve reiterated throughout the article, we recommend speaking with your doctor about this before you go for a drink. Everyone’s recovery process is different, and we all react differently to medical procedures. Depending on overall health, a few drinks might not kill us, but drinking alcohol at this stage poses a lot of risks. Here are the big ones:

  • Atrial fibrillation (AFib). AFib is a common heart rhythm disorder, and alcohol is the most common trigger of episodes. AFib feels like a flutter in the chest. This can lead to exhaustion, dizziness, lightheadedness, heart attack, and stroke. Don’t chance it!

  • Blood pressure fluctuations. Alcohol causes swings to your blood pressure, putting extra strain on your body and heart.

  • Medication interactions. After a stent placement (and maybe before), we’ll likely be taking a blood thinner, aspirin, a statin (anti-cholesterol med), and maybe a pain medication. In any case, alcohol interacts with all drugs typically used after a stent placement. At high amounts, this interaction can be fatal.

Let’s face it, if we’ve just had a stent placed, we probably have more than the average health considerations to take into account! We’re healing not only from the procedure, but we’re in the process of recovering from whatever condition led to the placement of the stent. To optimize heart and blood health and give our body the best chance at healing, it’s best to take it easy and avoid stressing our body out with alcohol.

When To Call a Doctor

Seek medical attention or dial 911 if you experience any of these symptoms after a stent procedure: 

  • Bleeding, swelling, discharge, or numbness
  • Fever or chills
  • Faintness or dizziness
  • Abnormal (too slow or too fast) pulse
  • Chest pain

Although the angioplasty and stent will help the blood circulate better, that doesn’t mean we’re completely off the hook! We still need to do our part to live a healthy lifestyle. That means eating healthy foods, exercising, avoiding tobacco products, and limiting alcohol. 

What Is Drinking in Moderation?

Moderation is key to overall health and a healthy relationship with alcohol. We may have heard the term “moderation” thrown around a lot, but what does it actually mean?

Moderation means consuming alcoholic beverages in reasonable limits that mitigate risks to health. Moderation implies a balanced and controlled approach to drinking. It’s typically defined as less than one drink per day for women and fewer than two drinks per day for men. 

Moderation entails making intentional and informed decisions about the quantity and frequency of our alcohol intake. Mindful drinking prioritizes our health goals and allows us to avoid negative consequences such as impaired judgment or dependency. To learn more about how mindful drinking benefits overall well-being, check out our article about health benefits of cutting back on drinking

Luckily, life offers many options for enjoying ourselves without drinking alcohol. Let’s take a look at how we can protect our heart health with sobriety!

Healthy Alternatives to Drinking Alcohol

Many of us have heard that a glass of red wine is good for heart health. So is that an invitation to drink our daily glass (and then some) if we’re on a path of healing our heart?

Think again! We wish it were that simple. Most of those studies have been debunked, or it was proven that we get all the benefits of drinking red wine by just drinking non-alcoholic grape juice (without the negative effects of alcohol).

Luckily, there are heart-healthy ways to enjoy a “drink” without alcohol. In fact, this time of healing can stand as the beginning of a greater journey toward sobriety or mindfully reduced drinking. Let’s look at some healthy alternatives to drinking alcohol after getting a stent placed.

  • Opt for a mocktail. We love mocktails here at Reframe. They give us the feeling of drinking a cocktail without the negative effects! Check out these healthy (and fun!) mocktail recipes or try ordering a mocktail at a bar — best of all, mocktails are often free (or very cheap!). 
  • Try non-alcoholic wine or beer. You may be scrunching up your nose at the idea of non-alcoholic beer or wine, but if you’re really craving the flavor, give one of these a try. With the rise of the sober-curious movement, N/A beers are increasingly common and fancy. Many craft breweries have N/A options, and there are even entire breweries dedicated to making a variety of craft N/A beer styles. There’s no harm in trying! You may end up really enjoying the flavor without the results (or price tag) of alcoholic beer.
  • Juice it up. Juices and smoothies are a healthy alternative to drinking and also can be made with heart-healthy ingredients like fruits, veggies, nuts, and seeds. On top of that, they’re easy to make — delicious! Consider a detox drink packed with nutrients like Vitamin C, B, and antioxidants (think blueberries) or inflammation-busting ingredients like citrus or turmeric.

Whether we’re recovering from heart surgery or taking a break from drinking for other health reasons, there are many benefits to an alcohol-free lifestyle worth exploring.

The Bottom Line

Although it’s not technically a “no-no” to drink alcohol after having a stent fitted, the best idea is to exercise caution with anything that could potentially put us at risk or cause any complications — especially when we’re dealing with matters of the heart! Our hearts are really the heartbeat of our entire well-being. As always, Reframe is here to help us all make positive changes that benefit our health.

Alcohol and Health
Popular
2024-01-17 9:00
Alcohol and Health
7 Liver Detox Drinks To Get Alcohol Out of Your System
This is some text inside of a div block.

Learn how to detox your body from alcohol with these 7 tasty liver detox drinks, and find out how to optimize your liver health!

20 min read

Optimize Your Health With Reframe!

Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!

The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.

You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.

Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol. 

And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).

The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!

Read Full Article  →

Last night was wild, and now you’re feeling crummy. Maybe it’s a hangover, or flashes from embarrassing moments. At times like these, we often have some clarity about our self-care. We may decide to counteract our overindulgence with a healthy boost to the system — a trip to the gym, a green smoothie for breakfast, or a commitment to take it a little easier next time.

2 ladies doing cheers of detox drinks

One great way to get a health boost after heavy drinking is to give our liver a break. Indulging in a healthy liver detox drink is like giving a spa day to the hardworking organ that cleans up the alcohol from our system and gets us back to our sober selves.

If you’re wondering what to drink to detox your body, looking for liver flush recipes, or searching for homemade detox drink ideas, you’ve come to the right place. What is a good detox drink to flush your system? And what are the best detox drinks for alcohol recovery? Read on for tips and recipes!

Recipes for Recovery

Now that you have some ideas of how to experiment with your own recipes, let’s look at a few to get you started and inspire you. Here are seven tasty recipes to set you on the road to recovery.

1. Lemon Ginger Detox Tea

1 cup of water
½ inch piece of ginger, grated or sliced
Juice from half a lemon
1 tsp of honey (or to taste)
Optional: cinnamon stick, fresh mint leaves, or turmeric

Boil the water and add all ingredients. Steep for 5-10 minutes, then strain. This drink is soothing when hot, and refreshing when served over ice.

Psychotherapy is beneficial for AUD treatment because it addresses our mental health. Our mental health and AUD are connected in three main ways:

2. Creamy Turmeric Latte

  • 1 cup warmed milk of your choice
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp ginger powder
  • A pinch of black pepper
  • Honey or maple syrup to taste

Blend all the ingredients together well and serve while still warm.

3. Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

1 bananas (fresh or frozen without the skin)
1 cup of milk of your choice
¼ cup peanut butter
Optional: 1 tablespoons honey, or to taste
1 cup of ice cubes

Blend everything together very well and enjoy. It’s that simple!

4. Green Goodness Smoothie

1 cup leafy greens (spinach, kale, and chard are great!)
½ - 1 banana
½ avocado
½ cup orange juice, plus more to taste
½ teaspoon chia seeds and/or hemp hearts
1 cup almond milk, plus more as needed to blend
Handful of ice

Toss everything into a blender and enjoy! You might also consider adding ingredients like spirulina, flaxseed meal, and frozen fruits (try pineapple or mango!).

5. Beet and Berry Blend

⅓ cup peeled + chopped raw beet (or ¼ cup beet juice)
1 ⅓ cup frozen strawberries 
½ frozen banana
⅔ cup apple juice or cider
A handful of ice (more if using fresh fruit)

Blend everything together. Want to get experimental? Try adding a tablespoon of almond or sunflower seed butter for some extra creaminess, or a carrot for an extra nutritional boost.

6. Semi-Homemade Dandelion Tea

If you have access to fresh dandelion root — amazing! It can be hard to find, so here are some suggestions for spicing up your plain store-bought dandelion tea. Experiment and find what works for you! Don’t go too crazy: try one or two of these things at a time to get an idea of what you do or don’t like.

Milk or cream of your choice
1 cinnamon stick
½ teaspoon of dried ginger
1 teaspoon fresh minced ginger
⅛ tsp vanilla extract (or to taste)
1 tsp honey or maple syrup (or to taste)
⅛ tsp pumpkin spice
⅛ tsp cloves

7. Orange Dream Smoothie

1 large orange, peeled
½ banana (fresh or frozen)
1 cup frozen mango chunks
½ cup milk of your choice
¼ cup vanilla extract

Blend everything together very well. Consider adding a carrot for an extra nutrient boost and a glowing orange color.

Liver Health 101

The liver is one of the largest organs in the human body, an essential player on the organ team that keeps our body running. Understanding what it does is a good place to start when thinking about how to take care of it.

Functions of the Liver

  • Detoxification. The liver filters toxins from the blood, including alcohol, drugs, and environmental pollutants. Like a detox superhero, the liver takes out these bad guys and gets rid of them.
  • Metabolism. Our liver plays a key role in metabolizing carbohydrates, fats, and proteins — the three building blocks of food — and converting them into energy and nutrients the body can use.
  • Vital bile. The liver produces bile, which helps us digest fats. It also synthesizes essential proteins for blood plasma, enzymes, and hormones.

Challenges to Liver Health

  • Alcohol. Excessive alcohol consumption is one of the most common threats to liver health. It can lead to conditions such as fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and cancer.
  • Diet and obesity. A diet high in unhealthy fats and sugars can lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Obesity significantly increases this risk.
  • Medications and toxins. Certain medications and environmental toxins can cause liver damage if not used properly.

A detox can help us keep our liver in tip-top shape.

Crafting a Detox Drink

Wondering what to drink to detox your body? The best detox cleanse drink for your liver is the one you’ll drink and enjoy! When you understand the ingredients that go into good detox drinks, you can start crafting one to your tastes.

When it comes to the mixology of liver detox drinks, there are two major categories to explore: teas and smoothies.

Teas as Detox Drinks for Alcohol Recovery

Teas allow us to take advantage of the many herbs and plants that boost liver health. You can make hot tea on a cold winter day or a cozy evening, or an iced tea to beat the heat in the dead of summer. Whichever you choose, there are a few key items to keep in your pantry.

  • Milk thistle. Often touted as a liver superfood, milk thistle is a wild herb with deep roots in traditional medicine. The active compound in this herb, silymarin, is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. More research is needed to determine why silymarin is helpful to treat liver conditions, but when used as a complementary medicine, it has shown promising results. It has a mild earthy herbal flavor similar to turmeric and bay leaf. Brew it with other herbs for a variety of overall health benefits.
  • Dandelion root. Dandelion root is well known for its liver-protecting qualities — it’s one of the most common ingredients in the liver detox teas you’ll find on supermarket shelves. Dandelion root has a strong, earthy flavor that some dislike. It’s commonly combined with warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and cloves.
  • Turmeric. This bright yellow superfood is not just good for your liver, it’s a whole-body detox. The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. It’s beneficial for inflammation-related conditions like arthritis, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and heart disease. It has a bright, earthy flavor and is a common ingredient in curries. It’s also wonderful when added to golden milk or in a turmeric latte!
  • Green tea. Green tea is known for its many health benefits, from boosting memory to helping with weight loss. It’s rich in antioxidants called catechins, which have been shown to help with a wide array of inflammatory conditions.
  • Ginger. Ginger is a bright, spicy root used to spice a variety of culinary dishes, from curries to cookies to pumpkin spice lattes. Ginger is famous for helping with digestive and stomach issues, but it’s also great for your liver. Try making ginger tea and combining it with a squeeze of lemon (more on that later), then sweeten the deal with some local honey. Yum!

Liver Detox Juice Recipes and Smoothies

Who doesn’t love a tasty smoothie? They’re an easy, refreshing way to blend up superfoods and pack a wellness punch. Let’s look at some great smoothie ingredients to inspire you:

  • Citrus. Orange juice, lemon juice, and lime juice make great additions to brighten up just about any fruit smoothie.
  • Berries. Berries are known for their brain-boosting health benefits thanks to the antioxidants that help reduce inflammation. Blend some blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries together and add a bit of lime for a garnish. All these berries freeze really well, so they’ll keep a long time.
  • Oats. These healthy grains aren’t just for oatmeal! You can add a scoop of oats to any smoothie to give it a stomach-filling boost. Plus, oats help lower cholesterol and keep it low.
  • Avocado. Adding avocado makes a smoothie extra smooth, giving it a velvety texture and a boost of healthy fats. It works great in a green smoothie with a banana for a healthy, velvety treat.
  • Beets. Veggies? You bet! Beets are bright red and known for their strong, earthy flavor. When paired with citrus, pineapple, bananas, carrots, and other sweet offerings, you can “beet” that strong flavor and get the health benefits of this superfood.
  • Nuts and seeds. Nuts and seeds are associated with longevity and brain health, and they’re an important part of the Mediterranean diet. But did you know they go great in smoothies? Add some flaxseed meal, hemp hearts, chia seeds, or pumpkin seeds to your smoothie, or consider a peanut butter and banana blend for a dessert-like nutritional powerhouse.

A Better Brew

Next time you’re enjoying your morning cup of joe, consider that it’s doing more for you than just giving you an energy boost. Coffee is known to help protect against liver cancer. Don’t think that’s a license to up your intake — the caffeine in coffee can interfere with sleep and cause gastrointestinal issues, and excessive coffee intake is associated with a higher risk of other types of cancer.

How To Flush Alcohol Out of Your System

Hopefully these liver-detoxing ingredients have you excited and inspired. But before you run to the kitchen to concoct some cleansing drinks, let’s consider one more thing.

If you’re in a rush to detox, you may be out of luck. If you’re wondering how to get alcohol out of your system fast, a detox drink simply won’t do it. There’s no way to speed up the elimination of alcohol from your system. Your liver can only process alcohol so quickly, and it needs time and rest to do its job.

So what is the best drink to flush your liver. Water! Good old H2O is the antidote to alcohol’s dehydrating effects. To give your liver a chance to focus on its job, drink some water, get in a good veggie-filled meal, and have a restful day.

Tips for Liver Health

While these recipes are a great way to recover, the best way to protect your liver is to control your alcohol intake by quitting or cutting back on drinking. Let’s look at some tips to help you make a successful rebound on your liver recovery journey.

  • Healthy diet and exercise. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains supports liver health. Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
  • Regular check-ups. Routine medical check-ups are important, and they give you an opportunity to speak with your doctor about your health goals. Blood tests can assess liver function and detect any early signs of trouble.
  • Hydrate! Water is essential for most of the liver’s vital functions. Get your daily 8 glasses, and see the benefits in every area of health, from your liver to your skin.
  • Moderate alcohol consumption. Limiting alcohol is crucial to prevent liver damage. Reframe can help you make a plan to quit or cut back on drinking so you can optimize your liver — and overall — health.

Last night was wild, and now you’re feeling crummy. Maybe it’s a hangover, or flashes from embarrassing moments. At times like these, we often have some clarity about our self-care. We may decide to counteract our overindulgence with a healthy boost to the system — a trip to the gym, a green smoothie for breakfast, or a commitment to take it a little easier next time.

2 ladies doing cheers of detox drinks

One great way to get a health boost after heavy drinking is to give our liver a break. Indulging in a healthy liver detox drink is like giving a spa day to the hardworking organ that cleans up the alcohol from our system and gets us back to our sober selves.

If you’re wondering what to drink to detox your body, looking for liver flush recipes, or searching for homemade detox drink ideas, you’ve come to the right place. What is a good detox drink to flush your system? And what are the best detox drinks for alcohol recovery? Read on for tips and recipes!

Recipes for Recovery

Now that you have some ideas of how to experiment with your own recipes, let’s look at a few to get you started and inspire you. Here are seven tasty recipes to set you on the road to recovery.

1. Lemon Ginger Detox Tea

1 cup of water
½ inch piece of ginger, grated or sliced
Juice from half a lemon
1 tsp of honey (or to taste)
Optional: cinnamon stick, fresh mint leaves, or turmeric

Boil the water and add all ingredients. Steep for 5-10 minutes, then strain. This drink is soothing when hot, and refreshing when served over ice.

Psychotherapy is beneficial for AUD treatment because it addresses our mental health. Our mental health and AUD are connected in three main ways:

2. Creamy Turmeric Latte

  • 1 cup warmed milk of your choice
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp ginger powder
  • A pinch of black pepper
  • Honey or maple syrup to taste

Blend all the ingredients together well and serve while still warm.

3. Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

1 bananas (fresh or frozen without the skin)
1 cup of milk of your choice
¼ cup peanut butter
Optional: 1 tablespoons honey, or to taste
1 cup of ice cubes

Blend everything together very well and enjoy. It’s that simple!

4. Green Goodness Smoothie

1 cup leafy greens (spinach, kale, and chard are great!)
½ - 1 banana
½ avocado
½ cup orange juice, plus more to taste
½ teaspoon chia seeds and/or hemp hearts
1 cup almond milk, plus more as needed to blend
Handful of ice

Toss everything into a blender and enjoy! You might also consider adding ingredients like spirulina, flaxseed meal, and frozen fruits (try pineapple or mango!).

5. Beet and Berry Blend

⅓ cup peeled + chopped raw beet (or ¼ cup beet juice)
1 ⅓ cup frozen strawberries 
½ frozen banana
⅔ cup apple juice or cider
A handful of ice (more if using fresh fruit)

Blend everything together. Want to get experimental? Try adding a tablespoon of almond or sunflower seed butter for some extra creaminess, or a carrot for an extra nutritional boost.

6. Semi-Homemade Dandelion Tea

If you have access to fresh dandelion root — amazing! It can be hard to find, so here are some suggestions for spicing up your plain store-bought dandelion tea. Experiment and find what works for you! Don’t go too crazy: try one or two of these things at a time to get an idea of what you do or don’t like.

Milk or cream of your choice
1 cinnamon stick
½ teaspoon of dried ginger
1 teaspoon fresh minced ginger
⅛ tsp vanilla extract (or to taste)
1 tsp honey or maple syrup (or to taste)
⅛ tsp pumpkin spice
⅛ tsp cloves

7. Orange Dream Smoothie

1 large orange, peeled
½ banana (fresh or frozen)
1 cup frozen mango chunks
½ cup milk of your choice
¼ cup vanilla extract

Blend everything together very well. Consider adding a carrot for an extra nutrient boost and a glowing orange color.

Liver Health 101

The liver is one of the largest organs in the human body, an essential player on the organ team that keeps our body running. Understanding what it does is a good place to start when thinking about how to take care of it.

Functions of the Liver

  • Detoxification. The liver filters toxins from the blood, including alcohol, drugs, and environmental pollutants. Like a detox superhero, the liver takes out these bad guys and gets rid of them.
  • Metabolism. Our liver plays a key role in metabolizing carbohydrates, fats, and proteins — the three building blocks of food — and converting them into energy and nutrients the body can use.
  • Vital bile. The liver produces bile, which helps us digest fats. It also synthesizes essential proteins for blood plasma, enzymes, and hormones.

Challenges to Liver Health

  • Alcohol. Excessive alcohol consumption is one of the most common threats to liver health. It can lead to conditions such as fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and cancer.
  • Diet and obesity. A diet high in unhealthy fats and sugars can lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Obesity significantly increases this risk.
  • Medications and toxins. Certain medications and environmental toxins can cause liver damage if not used properly.

A detox can help us keep our liver in tip-top shape.

Crafting a Detox Drink

Wondering what to drink to detox your body? The best detox cleanse drink for your liver is the one you’ll drink and enjoy! When you understand the ingredients that go into good detox drinks, you can start crafting one to your tastes.

When it comes to the mixology of liver detox drinks, there are two major categories to explore: teas and smoothies.

Teas as Detox Drinks for Alcohol Recovery

Teas allow us to take advantage of the many herbs and plants that boost liver health. You can make hot tea on a cold winter day or a cozy evening, or an iced tea to beat the heat in the dead of summer. Whichever you choose, there are a few key items to keep in your pantry.

  • Milk thistle. Often touted as a liver superfood, milk thistle is a wild herb with deep roots in traditional medicine. The active compound in this herb, silymarin, is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. More research is needed to determine why silymarin is helpful to treat liver conditions, but when used as a complementary medicine, it has shown promising results. It has a mild earthy herbal flavor similar to turmeric and bay leaf. Brew it with other herbs for a variety of overall health benefits.
  • Dandelion root. Dandelion root is well known for its liver-protecting qualities — it’s one of the most common ingredients in the liver detox teas you’ll find on supermarket shelves. Dandelion root has a strong, earthy flavor that some dislike. It’s commonly combined with warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and cloves.
  • Turmeric. This bright yellow superfood is not just good for your liver, it’s a whole-body detox. The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. It’s beneficial for inflammation-related conditions like arthritis, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and heart disease. It has a bright, earthy flavor and is a common ingredient in curries. It’s also wonderful when added to golden milk or in a turmeric latte!
  • Green tea. Green tea is known for its many health benefits, from boosting memory to helping with weight loss. It’s rich in antioxidants called catechins, which have been shown to help with a wide array of inflammatory conditions.
  • Ginger. Ginger is a bright, spicy root used to spice a variety of culinary dishes, from curries to cookies to pumpkin spice lattes. Ginger is famous for helping with digestive and stomach issues, but it’s also great for your liver. Try making ginger tea and combining it with a squeeze of lemon (more on that later), then sweeten the deal with some local honey. Yum!

Liver Detox Juice Recipes and Smoothies

Who doesn’t love a tasty smoothie? They’re an easy, refreshing way to blend up superfoods and pack a wellness punch. Let’s look at some great smoothie ingredients to inspire you:

  • Citrus. Orange juice, lemon juice, and lime juice make great additions to brighten up just about any fruit smoothie.
  • Berries. Berries are known for their brain-boosting health benefits thanks to the antioxidants that help reduce inflammation. Blend some blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries together and add a bit of lime for a garnish. All these berries freeze really well, so they’ll keep a long time.
  • Oats. These healthy grains aren’t just for oatmeal! You can add a scoop of oats to any smoothie to give it a stomach-filling boost. Plus, oats help lower cholesterol and keep it low.
  • Avocado. Adding avocado makes a smoothie extra smooth, giving it a velvety texture and a boost of healthy fats. It works great in a green smoothie with a banana for a healthy, velvety treat.
  • Beets. Veggies? You bet! Beets are bright red and known for their strong, earthy flavor. When paired with citrus, pineapple, bananas, carrots, and other sweet offerings, you can “beet” that strong flavor and get the health benefits of this superfood.
  • Nuts and seeds. Nuts and seeds are associated with longevity and brain health, and they’re an important part of the Mediterranean diet. But did you know they go great in smoothies? Add some flaxseed meal, hemp hearts, chia seeds, or pumpkin seeds to your smoothie, or consider a peanut butter and banana blend for a dessert-like nutritional powerhouse.

A Better Brew

Next time you’re enjoying your morning cup of joe, consider that it’s doing more for you than just giving you an energy boost. Coffee is known to help protect against liver cancer. Don’t think that’s a license to up your intake — the caffeine in coffee can interfere with sleep and cause gastrointestinal issues, and excessive coffee intake is associated with a higher risk of other types of cancer.

How To Flush Alcohol Out of Your System

Hopefully these liver-detoxing ingredients have you excited and inspired. But before you run to the kitchen to concoct some cleansing drinks, let’s consider one more thing.

If you’re in a rush to detox, you may be out of luck. If you’re wondering how to get alcohol out of your system fast, a detox drink simply won’t do it. There’s no way to speed up the elimination of alcohol from your system. Your liver can only process alcohol so quickly, and it needs time and rest to do its job.

So what is the best drink to flush your liver. Water! Good old H2O is the antidote to alcohol’s dehydrating effects. To give your liver a chance to focus on its job, drink some water, get in a good veggie-filled meal, and have a restful day.

Tips for Liver Health

While these recipes are a great way to recover, the best way to protect your liver is to control your alcohol intake by quitting or cutting back on drinking. Let’s look at some tips to help you make a successful rebound on your liver recovery journey.

  • Healthy diet and exercise. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains supports liver health. Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
  • Regular check-ups. Routine medical check-ups are important, and they give you an opportunity to speak with your doctor about your health goals. Blood tests can assess liver function and detect any early signs of trouble.
  • Hydrate! Water is essential for most of the liver’s vital functions. Get your daily 8 glasses, and see the benefits in every area of health, from your liver to your skin.
  • Moderate alcohol consumption. Limiting alcohol is crucial to prevent liver damage. Reframe can help you make a plan to quit or cut back on drinking so you can optimize your liver — and overall — health.
Alcohol and Health
Popular
2023-12-13 9:00
Alcohol and Health
Which Alcoholic Drinks Have the Most Sugar?
This is some text inside of a div block.

Many alcoholic drinks are loaded with sugar, which is detrimental to our overall well-being. Learn which beverages contain the most sugar and discover low-sugar alternative options.

20 min read

Cut Back on Alcohol or Quit Drinking With Reframe!

Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!

The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.

You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.

Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol. 

And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).

The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!

Read Full Article  →

You’ve been slowly making changes to your lifestyle, and you’re finally tackling one area in particular: your sugar intake. You’ve removed the Oreos from your pantry, traded your morning donut for a bowl of oatmeal, and swapped your afternoon chocolate bar for a handful of nuts. But there’s still one lingering issue — your alcohol intake. 

You have a cocktail or a glass of wine several times throughout the week. But have you ever paused to consider what's inside these beverages beyond the alcohol? The sugar content in alcoholic drinks is often overlooked, yet it can impact our health.

Does Alcohol Have Sugar?

First let’s start by discussing the basic chemistry of alcoholic beverages. Pure alcohol, chemically known as ethanol, does not contain any sugar. Ethanol is produced through the fermentation process, during which yeast consumes sugars found in fruits, grains, or vegetables and converts them into alcohol and carbon dioxide.

The key factor in determining alcoholic beverages’ sugar content lies in the specifics of this fermentation process and the liquid’s subsequent treatments. For example, in wine production, the natural sugars in grapes are partially or fully fermented into alcohol, depending on the desired sweetness of the wine. Dry wines undergo a longer fermentation process, resulting in lower residual sugar; sweeter wines retain more of the original sugars.

In the case of distilled spirits such as vodka and whiskey, the initial fermentation creates a mash that contains alcohol and sugars. The distillation process then heats this mixture, evaporating the alcohol (which has a lower boiling point) and leaving most other substances, including sugars, behind. Consequently, most straight distilled spirits contain negligible sugar.

However, post-distillation treatments and flavor additions can alter this natural state. Liqueurs, flavored spirits, and pre-mixed drinks often have sugars and other sweeteners added to enhance taste, contributing to their overall sugar content.

Thus, while pure alcohol itself is sugar-free, the final sugar content in alcoholic beverages varies significantly based on the type of drink, the fermentation process, and any additional flavorings or mixers. Understanding these factors is essential for those of us looking to manage our sugar intake while still enjoying alcoholic beverages.

How Much Sugar Is in Vodka?

Vodka, a popular distilled spirit, is known for its clarity and supposed purity. This perception stems from its production process, which involves the fermentation of grains like wheat, rye, or potatoes, followed by a thorough distillation. The distillation process effectively removes impurities and residual sugars from the fermented mixture, resulting in a beverage that’s almost exclusively composed of water and ethanol (alcohol). This is why traditional, unflavored vodka is often considered sugar-free. 

The caloric content in unflavored vodka comes primarily from its alcohol content. Alcohol contains about 7 calories per gram, which is almost twice as caloric as carbohydrates (including sugars) but less caloric than fats. While vodka does not contribute sugar to our diet, it does contribute calories — an important consideration for those of us watching our overall caloric intake.

Flavored vodkas are a different story. These contain sugars and other sweetening agents to enhance their taste and appeal. The sugar content in flavored vodkas varies widely depending on the brand and the specific flavoring methods. Some flavored vodkas contain 2-11 grams of sugar per 1.5-ounce serving. This can quickly add up, especially when consumed quickly in the form of shots.

How Much Sugar Is in Gin and Tonic?

Gin, similar to vodka, is typically sugar-free post-distillation, as the sugars in the original mash are converted into alcohol. The distillation process renders gin’s sugar content negligible — the final product is primarily alcohol and water.

However, the classic gin and tonic cocktail introduces a great deal of sugar, not from the gin itself, but from the tonic water. Tonic water, often perceived as a simple mixer, actually contains a considerable amount of sugar to balance the bitterness of quinine, its key ingredient. A single serving of tonic water can add up to 18 grams of sugar to a drink.

How Much Sugar Is in a Beer?

Beer contains sugars due to its brewing process. Brewed from starch-rich ingredients such as barley, the sugars in these grains are essential for fermentation, during which yeast converts them into alcohol and carbon dioxide. However, not all the sugars are fermented; some remain in the final product, contributing to the beer's flavor and body. 

The sugar content in beer varies, but a standard pint typically contains up to 3 grams of sugar. This amount can increase, particularly in darker beers. Darker beers often have a richer malt profile, which involves the use of more heavily roasted grains. These grains contribute not only to the beer's deeper color and robust flavor but also to a higher residual sugar content. 

Therefore, the sugar content of beer greatly depends upon its type, with darker varieties generally having more sugar compared to lighter ones. 

How Much Sugar Is in Wine?

The sugar content in wine varies greatly depending on the type and style of wine. It ranges from almost zero in some dry wines to high levels in sweet dessert wines. 

In dry wines, most of the natural sugars from grapes are fermented into alcohol, leaving less than 1 gram of sugar per glass. Medium-dry wines might contain 1 to 12 grams of sugar per serving. On the other hand, sweet wines, such as some rieslings or dessert wines like port, can have over 20 grams of sugar per serving. 

The winemaking process plays a crucial role in this variation; winemakers can stop fermentation early to retain more natural sugar for a sweeter taste or allow it to continue longer for a drier wine. It’s essential for those of us monitoring our sugar intake to understand the distinction between dry, medium, and sweet wines, as is checking the label for residual sugar content where available.

How Much Sugar Is in Tequila?

Tequila, a distinctive spirit distilled from the agave plant, typically contains almost no sugar. The production process involves harvesting the agave, extracting the juice, and then fermenting it. During fermentation, the natural sugars in the agave are converted into alcohol. The subsequent distillation process further purifies the liquid, leaving behind most non-alcoholic components, including sugars. 

As a result, pure tequila, particularly the clear varieties such as blanco or silver tequila, is generally considered sugar-free. However, aged tequilas, such as reposado or añejo, may have trace amounts of sugar due to the caramelization of natural sugars during the aging process in wooden barrels. It's also noteworthy that flavored or mixed tequilas can contain added sugars, significantly altering their sugar content compared to traditional, pure tequila.

While tequila may have little to no sugar, it still contains a significant amount of alcohol. Consumption should be monitored to avoid the adverse effects of intoxication.

How Much Sugar Is in Whiskey?

Whiskey, a spirit distilled from fermented grain mash, including barley, corn, rye, and wheat, typically has no sugar after the distillation process. The sugars present in the grains are crucial for fermentation, a process through which they’re converted into alcohol. During distillation, the alcohol is separated from most other components, including sugars, resulting in a sugar-free final product. 

This holds true for various types of whiskey, such as scotch, bourbon, and rye. However, it's important to distinguish between straight whiskey and whiskey-based liqueurs or flavored whiskeys. The latter often contain added sugars and other flavoring agents, which can significantly increase their sugar content. 

Like tequila, it’s important to drink whiskey in moderation to avoid the downsides of its high alcohol content.

How Much Sugar Is in Cocktails?

Cocktails are notorious for their high sugar content. The sugar content in these beverages can significantly vary based on their ingredients:

  • Margarita. A typical margarita can contain about 24 grams of sugar, largely due to the sweeteners in triple sec and added syrups.
  • Old fashioned. This cocktail usually has around 4-6 grams of sugar, derived from the simple syrup or sugar cube used in its preparation.
  • Piña colada. High on the sugar scale, a piña colada can contain up to 35 grams of sugar, primarily from the pineapple juice and coconut cream.
  • Mojito. A mojito has approximately 12 grams of sugar, owing to the simple syrup and the natural sugar in lime juice.
  • Cosmopolitan. This cocktail typically includes around 13 grams of sugar, contributed by cranberry juice and triple sec.
  • Daiquiri. A classic daiquiri has about 6 grams of sugar, coming from the simple syrup it contains.
  • Long Island iced tea. Known for its high alcohol and sugar content, this beverage can contain up to 33 grams of sugar, thanks to its mix of sweet liqueurs and cola.

What Are the Risks of Consuming Too Much Sugar?

Sugar, unfortunately, is present in many of our foods and beverages today. Many of us far exceed the recommended 24 grams (for women) or 36 grams (for men) of added sugar per day

Consuming excessive amounts of sugar poses several health risks: 

  • Increased risk of obesity. High sugar intake is closely associated with weight gain and obesity. Sugary drinks and snacks can increase caloric intake without providing essential nutrients or a feeling of fullness, contributing to overeating.
  • Heart disease. Studies have shown a direct link between high sugar consumption and an increased risk of heart disease. Excessive sugar can lead to higher blood pressure, inflammation, high triglycerides, and insulin resistance, all risk factors for heart disease.
  • Type 2 diabetes. Consuming too much sugar, especially in sugary drinks, increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This condition, if unmanaged, can result in kidney disease, vision issues, and nerve damage. 
  • Cavities and dental problems. Sugar is a leading cause of cavities. Oral bacteria feed on sugar, producing acids that damage tooth enamel, leading to tooth decay.
  • Increased risk of certain cancers. Some studies suggest that a diet high in sugary foods and beverages increases the risk of developing certain cancers, possibly due to the connection between sugar, obesity, and inflammation.
  • Accelerated skin aging. Excess dietary sugar harms our skin through a process called glycation. Sugar molecules attach to proteins in our skin, leading to the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that contribute to wrinkles and sagging.
  • Impaired cognitive function. High sugar consumption has been linked to cognitive decline. Excessive sugar intake can lead to inflammation and oxidative stress, which may negatively affect brain function.
  • Liver damage. Similar to the way alcohol can damage the liver, too much sugar can be harmful, too. It can lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition in which the liver converts excess sugar into fat.

As with alcohol, moderating our sugar intake is key. Understanding the sugar content in alcoholic beverages is crucial for maintaining good health and preventing these potential risks.

How To Moderate Your Sugar and Alcohol Intake

When we build healthier drinking habits, we can also lower our overall sugar intake. Here’s how we can simultaneously lower our sugar and alcohol consumption: 

  • Read the labels. Start by reading labels on alcoholic beverages. Look for sugar content, especially in premixed drinks or flavored spirits. If you’re looking to lower your carbohydrate intake, pay attention to this number as well, since many alcoholic beverages are high in carbs.
  • Choose wisely. Opt for dry wines, light beers, or spirits without mixers. These typically have a lower sugar content. 
  • Try homemade mixers. Create your own mixers using fresh ingredients. A squeeze of lime or lemon can enhance your drink without the added sugars of commercial mixers.
  • Monitor your intake. Keep track of your alcohol consumption. Reducing the quantity can significantly decrease sugar intake. If you need help staying accountable, we have a personalized drink tracker on the Reframe app. We also show you how many sugar calories you’ve avoided by drinking less or quitting alcohol
  • Alternate with water. Stay hydrated by alternating alcoholic drinks with water. This not only reduces sugar intake but also moderates your overall alcohol consumption.
  • Educate yourself. Stay informed about the nutritional content of different alcoholic drinks (which you’ve already started doing by reading this blog!). Knowledge is power when it comes to making healthier choices.
  • Seek professional advice. If you're concerned about your sugar or alcohol intake, consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Alcohol and Sugar: The Takeaways

Sugar sneaks into many of our food and beverages, and alcohol is no exception. Awareness of the sugar content in alcoholic beverages is a crucial step in making informed health decisions. With this knowledge, we can enjoy our evenings responsibly, knowing we're taking care of our bodies in the process.

The changes we make today will have lasting effects on our well-being. And with better health, we can be more present for what truly matters in our lives. 

You’ve been slowly making changes to your lifestyle, and you’re finally tackling one area in particular: your sugar intake. You’ve removed the Oreos from your pantry, traded your morning donut for a bowl of oatmeal, and swapped your afternoon chocolate bar for a handful of nuts. But there’s still one lingering issue — your alcohol intake. 

You have a cocktail or a glass of wine several times throughout the week. But have you ever paused to consider what's inside these beverages beyond the alcohol? The sugar content in alcoholic drinks is often overlooked, yet it can impact our health.

Does Alcohol Have Sugar?

First let’s start by discussing the basic chemistry of alcoholic beverages. Pure alcohol, chemically known as ethanol, does not contain any sugar. Ethanol is produced through the fermentation process, during which yeast consumes sugars found in fruits, grains, or vegetables and converts them into alcohol and carbon dioxide.

The key factor in determining alcoholic beverages’ sugar content lies in the specifics of this fermentation process and the liquid’s subsequent treatments. For example, in wine production, the natural sugars in grapes are partially or fully fermented into alcohol, depending on the desired sweetness of the wine. Dry wines undergo a longer fermentation process, resulting in lower residual sugar; sweeter wines retain more of the original sugars.

In the case of distilled spirits such as vodka and whiskey, the initial fermentation creates a mash that contains alcohol and sugars. The distillation process then heats this mixture, evaporating the alcohol (which has a lower boiling point) and leaving most other substances, including sugars, behind. Consequently, most straight distilled spirits contain negligible sugar.

However, post-distillation treatments and flavor additions can alter this natural state. Liqueurs, flavored spirits, and pre-mixed drinks often have sugars and other sweeteners added to enhance taste, contributing to their overall sugar content.

Thus, while pure alcohol itself is sugar-free, the final sugar content in alcoholic beverages varies significantly based on the type of drink, the fermentation process, and any additional flavorings or mixers. Understanding these factors is essential for those of us looking to manage our sugar intake while still enjoying alcoholic beverages.

How Much Sugar Is in Vodka?

Vodka, a popular distilled spirit, is known for its clarity and supposed purity. This perception stems from its production process, which involves the fermentation of grains like wheat, rye, or potatoes, followed by a thorough distillation. The distillation process effectively removes impurities and residual sugars from the fermented mixture, resulting in a beverage that’s almost exclusively composed of water and ethanol (alcohol). This is why traditional, unflavored vodka is often considered sugar-free. 

The caloric content in unflavored vodka comes primarily from its alcohol content. Alcohol contains about 7 calories per gram, which is almost twice as caloric as carbohydrates (including sugars) but less caloric than fats. While vodka does not contribute sugar to our diet, it does contribute calories — an important consideration for those of us watching our overall caloric intake.

Flavored vodkas are a different story. These contain sugars and other sweetening agents to enhance their taste and appeal. The sugar content in flavored vodkas varies widely depending on the brand and the specific flavoring methods. Some flavored vodkas contain 2-11 grams of sugar per 1.5-ounce serving. This can quickly add up, especially when consumed quickly in the form of shots.

How Much Sugar Is in Gin and Tonic?

Gin, similar to vodka, is typically sugar-free post-distillation, as the sugars in the original mash are converted into alcohol. The distillation process renders gin’s sugar content negligible — the final product is primarily alcohol and water.

However, the classic gin and tonic cocktail introduces a great deal of sugar, not from the gin itself, but from the tonic water. Tonic water, often perceived as a simple mixer, actually contains a considerable amount of sugar to balance the bitterness of quinine, its key ingredient. A single serving of tonic water can add up to 18 grams of sugar to a drink.

How Much Sugar Is in a Beer?

Beer contains sugars due to its brewing process. Brewed from starch-rich ingredients such as barley, the sugars in these grains are essential for fermentation, during which yeast converts them into alcohol and carbon dioxide. However, not all the sugars are fermented; some remain in the final product, contributing to the beer's flavor and body. 

The sugar content in beer varies, but a standard pint typically contains up to 3 grams of sugar. This amount can increase, particularly in darker beers. Darker beers often have a richer malt profile, which involves the use of more heavily roasted grains. These grains contribute not only to the beer's deeper color and robust flavor but also to a higher residual sugar content. 

Therefore, the sugar content of beer greatly depends upon its type, with darker varieties generally having more sugar compared to lighter ones. 

How Much Sugar Is in Wine?

The sugar content in wine varies greatly depending on the type and style of wine. It ranges from almost zero in some dry wines to high levels in sweet dessert wines. 

In dry wines, most of the natural sugars from grapes are fermented into alcohol, leaving less than 1 gram of sugar per glass. Medium-dry wines might contain 1 to 12 grams of sugar per serving. On the other hand, sweet wines, such as some rieslings or dessert wines like port, can have over 20 grams of sugar per serving. 

The winemaking process plays a crucial role in this variation; winemakers can stop fermentation early to retain more natural sugar for a sweeter taste or allow it to continue longer for a drier wine. It’s essential for those of us monitoring our sugar intake to understand the distinction between dry, medium, and sweet wines, as is checking the label for residual sugar content where available.

How Much Sugar Is in Tequila?

Tequila, a distinctive spirit distilled from the agave plant, typically contains almost no sugar. The production process involves harvesting the agave, extracting the juice, and then fermenting it. During fermentation, the natural sugars in the agave are converted into alcohol. The subsequent distillation process further purifies the liquid, leaving behind most non-alcoholic components, including sugars. 

As a result, pure tequila, particularly the clear varieties such as blanco or silver tequila, is generally considered sugar-free. However, aged tequilas, such as reposado or añejo, may have trace amounts of sugar due to the caramelization of natural sugars during the aging process in wooden barrels. It's also noteworthy that flavored or mixed tequilas can contain added sugars, significantly altering their sugar content compared to traditional, pure tequila.

While tequila may have little to no sugar, it still contains a significant amount of alcohol. Consumption should be monitored to avoid the adverse effects of intoxication.

How Much Sugar Is in Whiskey?

Whiskey, a spirit distilled from fermented grain mash, including barley, corn, rye, and wheat, typically has no sugar after the distillation process. The sugars present in the grains are crucial for fermentation, a process through which they’re converted into alcohol. During distillation, the alcohol is separated from most other components, including sugars, resulting in a sugar-free final product. 

This holds true for various types of whiskey, such as scotch, bourbon, and rye. However, it's important to distinguish between straight whiskey and whiskey-based liqueurs or flavored whiskeys. The latter often contain added sugars and other flavoring agents, which can significantly increase their sugar content. 

Like tequila, it’s important to drink whiskey in moderation to avoid the downsides of its high alcohol content.

How Much Sugar Is in Cocktails?

Cocktails are notorious for their high sugar content. The sugar content in these beverages can significantly vary based on their ingredients:

  • Margarita. A typical margarita can contain about 24 grams of sugar, largely due to the sweeteners in triple sec and added syrups.
  • Old fashioned. This cocktail usually has around 4-6 grams of sugar, derived from the simple syrup or sugar cube used in its preparation.
  • Piña colada. High on the sugar scale, a piña colada can contain up to 35 grams of sugar, primarily from the pineapple juice and coconut cream.
  • Mojito. A mojito has approximately 12 grams of sugar, owing to the simple syrup and the natural sugar in lime juice.
  • Cosmopolitan. This cocktail typically includes around 13 grams of sugar, contributed by cranberry juice and triple sec.
  • Daiquiri. A classic daiquiri has about 6 grams of sugar, coming from the simple syrup it contains.
  • Long Island iced tea. Known for its high alcohol and sugar content, this beverage can contain up to 33 grams of sugar, thanks to its mix of sweet liqueurs and cola.

What Are the Risks of Consuming Too Much Sugar?

Sugar, unfortunately, is present in many of our foods and beverages today. Many of us far exceed the recommended 24 grams (for women) or 36 grams (for men) of added sugar per day

Consuming excessive amounts of sugar poses several health risks: 

  • Increased risk of obesity. High sugar intake is closely associated with weight gain and obesity. Sugary drinks and snacks can increase caloric intake without providing essential nutrients or a feeling of fullness, contributing to overeating.
  • Heart disease. Studies have shown a direct link between high sugar consumption and an increased risk of heart disease. Excessive sugar can lead to higher blood pressure, inflammation, high triglycerides, and insulin resistance, all risk factors for heart disease.
  • Type 2 diabetes. Consuming too much sugar, especially in sugary drinks, increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This condition, if unmanaged, can result in kidney disease, vision issues, and nerve damage. 
  • Cavities and dental problems. Sugar is a leading cause of cavities. Oral bacteria feed on sugar, producing acids that damage tooth enamel, leading to tooth decay.
  • Increased risk of certain cancers. Some studies suggest that a diet high in sugary foods and beverages increases the risk of developing certain cancers, possibly due to the connection between sugar, obesity, and inflammation.
  • Accelerated skin aging. Excess dietary sugar harms our skin through a process called glycation. Sugar molecules attach to proteins in our skin, leading to the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that contribute to wrinkles and sagging.
  • Impaired cognitive function. High sugar consumption has been linked to cognitive decline. Excessive sugar intake can lead to inflammation and oxidative stress, which may negatively affect brain function.
  • Liver damage. Similar to the way alcohol can damage the liver, too much sugar can be harmful, too. It can lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition in which the liver converts excess sugar into fat.

As with alcohol, moderating our sugar intake is key. Understanding the sugar content in alcoholic beverages is crucial for maintaining good health and preventing these potential risks.

How To Moderate Your Sugar and Alcohol Intake

When we build healthier drinking habits, we can also lower our overall sugar intake. Here’s how we can simultaneously lower our sugar and alcohol consumption: 

  • Read the labels. Start by reading labels on alcoholic beverages. Look for sugar content, especially in premixed drinks or flavored spirits. If you’re looking to lower your carbohydrate intake, pay attention to this number as well, since many alcoholic beverages are high in carbs.
  • Choose wisely. Opt for dry wines, light beers, or spirits without mixers. These typically have a lower sugar content. 
  • Try homemade mixers. Create your own mixers using fresh ingredients. A squeeze of lime or lemon can enhance your drink without the added sugars of commercial mixers.
  • Monitor your intake. Keep track of your alcohol consumption. Reducing the quantity can significantly decrease sugar intake. If you need help staying accountable, we have a personalized drink tracker on the Reframe app. We also show you how many sugar calories you’ve avoided by drinking less or quitting alcohol
  • Alternate with water. Stay hydrated by alternating alcoholic drinks with water. This not only reduces sugar intake but also moderates your overall alcohol consumption.
  • Educate yourself. Stay informed about the nutritional content of different alcoholic drinks (which you’ve already started doing by reading this blog!). Knowledge is power when it comes to making healthier choices.
  • Seek professional advice. If you're concerned about your sugar or alcohol intake, consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Alcohol and Sugar: The Takeaways

Sugar sneaks into many of our food and beverages, and alcohol is no exception. Awareness of the sugar content in alcoholic beverages is a crucial step in making informed health decisions. With this knowledge, we can enjoy our evenings responsibly, knowing we're taking care of our bodies in the process.

The changes we make today will have lasting effects on our well-being. And with better health, we can be more present for what truly matters in our lives. 

Alcohol and Health
Popular
2023-08-30 9:00
Alcohol and Health
How Bad Is It To Mix Different Types of Alcohol?
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Is there any truth to the adages that warn against mixing drinks, such as “Beer before liquor, you’ve never been sicker”? Learn about the real problem with mixing different types of alcohol.

18 min read

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You’re meeting some friends for happy hour after work. You order a beer, gulp it down, and are ready for another drink. You’re thinking about ordering a vodka soda, but your friend urges you to reconsider, saying, “Beer before liquor, never sicker.” You shrug it off. This isn’t the first time you’ve heard a saying like this. You’ve also been told, “Liquor before beer, you’re in the clear” and “Beer before wine, and you’ll feel fine.” 

But is the “beer before liquor” rule really true? Can you mix beer and wine? Or does mixing alcohol somehow make it stronger? And what about mixing liquors? In this post, we explore the dangers of mixing different types of alcohol and provide tips on how to better manage our alcohol consumption. Let’s dive in!

Beer or Liquor: Which Makes Us Sicker? 

A person mixing different types of alcohol at a bar

Many people assume that mixing drinks increases the risk of getting sick or makes our hangovers worse (hence all those rhyming warnings). But this actually isn’t true. Drinking a beer and then a gin and tonic will probably have the same effect on our body as sticking to one type of alcoholic beverage. 

When it comes to drinking alcohol, experts agree that there are only two things that increase our likelihood of getting sick or experiencing a hangover. Let’s take a closer look: 

  • The amount of alcohol we consume. The volume of alcohol we drink is the biggest factor determining how good or bad we’ll feel. The more alcohol we consume, the greater our chance of getting sick.
  • The rate at which we consume alcohol. How quickly we consume alcohol influences how potent its effects are during the time of consumption and the next day. For instance, we’ll feel intoxicated more quickly if we consume a shot in a couple of seconds compared to drinking a beer over the course of 30 minutes. The more intoxicated we become, the greater our chance of getting sick. 

Why Is Mixing Alcohol Bad?

So, why is mixing alcohol bad? The problem with mixing drinks comes down to the rate at which our body processes alcohol. When we take a sip of alcohol — whether beer, wine, or liquor — it’s quickly absorbed into our bloodstream through our stomach lining and small intestine. 

Once in our blood, alcohol is rapidly transported throughout our entire body, which is why it affects so many different bodily systems. Depending on how quickly our body’s tissues absorb alcohol, we’ll typically feel its effect within 15 to 45 minutes. 

Most alcohol that enters our body eventually ends up in the liver, which is responsible for metabolizing it, or breaking it down. Our liver can only efficiently process one standard-sized alcoholic drink per hour. In other words, it takes 1 hour for our body to metabolize just one beer, one glass of wine, or one shot. 

The amount of alcohol in our blood rises more quickly after drinking liquor than beer, due to its higher concentration of alcohol. If we drink liquor before beer, we’re likely to feel the effects of alcohol sooner. This might encourage us not to consume as much, thereby decreasing our chance of getting sick. However, drinking beer before liquor may lead to us becoming ill since our lowered inhibitions and impaired decision making may motivate us to consume higher concentrations of alcohol by doing shots or mixing stronger drinks. 

We can also think about it like this: if we drink beer and then liquor, we’ll most likely get more drunk than we would if we had started with liquor and felt the effects of alcohol earlier. If we end up getting sick, we may assume that the culprit was mixing the two types of alcohol in that order. In reality, the total amount of alcohol consumed in a short period of time caused us to become sick.

Furthermore, another problem with mixing drinks is that it makes it harder to track how much alcohol we’ve been consuming. For instance, it’s much easier to keep track of how many drinks we’ve consumed if we stick with one type of alcohol — such as beer or wine. If we’re bouncing around between cocktails, wine, beer, and shots, we’re likely to lose track pretty quickly. And when we’re not keeping track, we’re more likely to drink too much — which can cause us to get sick.

What Are the Side Effects of Mixing Alcohol?

There aren’t necessarily any side effects specifically related to mixing alcohol. In fact, one study looked at whether drinking wine before beer was associated with hangover severity and found that the order of alcoholic beverages didn’t have a significant effect.

However, certain types of alcohol may be more likely to lead to a hangover than others. This is because different types of alcohol have different congeners — toxins that result from the fermentation process. Congeners put extra stress on our liver to break down these substances and restore normal body function. 

Congeners also contribute to alcohol’s color and flavor. Darker alcohols (such as brandy, bourbon, whiskey, tequila, darker beer, and red wine) have more congeners than clear or lighter alcohols like vodka, gin, and lighter beers. Bourbon whisky, for example, contains 37 times the quantity of congeners as vodka! 

If we mix different kinds of alcohol, we may unknowingly drink higher amounts of congeners, which may lead to a more intense hangover, nausea, or dizziness the next day. Experts agree that feeling sick while intoxicated or experiencing a hangover is due largely to the amount of alcohol consumed and the time period it’s consumed over. 

Effects of Mixing Different Types of Alcohol

Why Do We Get Hungover From Alcohol?

Research suggests that hangovers are primarily caused by alcohol’s toxicity and dehydrating effects. Let’s take a closer look: 

  • Alcohol’s toxicity. When we drink, our bodies break down alcohol into several components, the first of which is acetaldehyde — a potent toxic chemical. Since our body can only process alcohol at the rate of one standard drink per hour, if we’re consuming large amounts of alcohol, acetaldehyde accumulates faster than our body can eliminate it. In the liver, acetaldehyde can cause inflammation and damage cells, contributing to that groggy, lethargic feeling the morning after drinking. 
  • Increased blood flow. Alcohol makes our blood vessels expand, a process known as vasodilation. This can lead to increased blood flow in our brain, resulting in a pounding headache.
  • Inflammation. Alcohol also increases gastric acid in our stomach, slowing the rate at which our stomach empties and inflaming the stomach lining. This can lead to nausea, vomiting, or even diarrhea. 
  • Dehydration. As a diuretic, alcohol leads to excessive water loss and dehydration. In large amounts, it can really deplete our body’s water supply and intensify our headaches.

Furthermore, there’s evidence that alcohol disrupts our immune system, which could also contribute to the symptoms of a headache, nausea, and fatigue. 

Several other factors play a role in how our body processes and tolerates alcohol. For instance, our sex might factor into hangover severity. One study found that women who had moderate to high estimated peak blood alcohol concentration (BAC) — 0.08 percent to more than 0.2 percent — reported hangovers with more severe nausea, tiredness, weakness and dizziness than men. This could be because women process alcohol differently from men: they tend to have less acetaldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), an important enzyme for metabolizing alcohol in the stomach.

Similarly, our age and weight also play a role. For instance, the older we are, the longer alcohol stays in our liver before it moves into our general bloodstream or is metabolized. Typically, older people have lower percentages of body water compared to those who are younger, which can also contribute to a higher blood alcohol content (BAC) and a slower processing time.

Alcohol and Medications: A More Dangerous Combination

Many people don’t realize that mixing alcohol with medications can be much more dangerous than mixing different types of alcohol together. Alcohol is known to interact with a wide variety of prescription and over-the-counter medications such as the following:

  • Painkillers (from opioids like Vicodin or Percocet to over-the-counter products like Tylenol or Advil)
  • Blood pressure medications
  • Statins (cholesterol medications)
  • Amphetamines (Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta)
  • Anti-anxiety medications (particularly benzodiazepines) 
  • Antidepressants
  • Antipsychotics

Mixing alcohol with these substances can lead to a higher risk of liver damage, irregular heart rate, heart attacks, overdose, and enhanced side effects from the medication. 

Tips for Managing Alcohol Consumption

We won’t have to worry about getting sick from alcohol if we avoid it entirely or consume it in moderation. Mindful drinking can be particularly effective at helping us make more intentional choices. Here are some other tips for managing our alcohol consumption:

  • Set drinking limits. It’s easy to lose track of the amount of alcohol we consume — especially if we’re mixing drinks. Decide in advance how many drinks you’ll have before you start drinking, and then stick to it. As a general rule, it’s best to limit yourself to one drink every hour. Using a notepad app on your phone can help keep you on track. 
  • Sip slowly. Try savoring each drink instead of gulping them down. It can help to stick to drinks that take time to finish, such as beer or wine (instead of shots or mixed drinks, which are intended to be gulped down).
  • Hydrate. Make sure you drink water before, during, and after drinking alcohol. A good rule of thumb is to consume a full glass of water for every alcoholic drink you have. This helps you stay hydrated and limits the amount of alcohol you consume by keeping you fuller. It also gives your liver time to metabolize the alcohol.
  • Don’t drink on an empty stomach. Eating before drinking slows alcohol absorption, giving our body more time to process it. Eating a nutritious meal high in protein or healthy fats can be particularly beneficial. You might also consider snacking while drinking: this helps us drink more slowly since it gives us another activity instead of solely drinking.
  • Choose wisely. You may be better off sticking to lighter-colored drinks, such as vodka, gin, and lighter beers, since darker ones contain more congeners — compounds that may intensify a hangover. Similarly, if we do choose to mix drinks, consider starting with a drink that has a high alcohol content and switching to something with a lower alcohol content, such as moving from vodka to beer. 

The Bottom Line

Mixing different types of alcoholic drinks doesn’t increase our risk of getting sick or having a hangover. It’s the quantity of alcohol consumed — not combined — and the rate at which we’re consuming it that influences intoxication and sickness. In other words, the problem with mixing beer and wine is that it usually leads to higher amounts of alcohol consumed more quickly in one sitting. This puts us in danger of intoxication and feeling hungover the next day.

If you’re struggling to manage your alcohol consumption, consider trying Reframe. We’re a science-backed app that has helped millions of people cut back on their alcohol consumption and enhance their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. 

You’re meeting some friends for happy hour after work. You order a beer, gulp it down, and are ready for another drink. You’re thinking about ordering a vodka soda, but your friend urges you to reconsider, saying, “Beer before liquor, never sicker.” You shrug it off. This isn’t the first time you’ve heard a saying like this. You’ve also been told, “Liquor before beer, you’re in the clear” and “Beer before wine, and you’ll feel fine.” 

But is the “beer before liquor” rule really true? Can you mix beer and wine? Or does mixing alcohol somehow make it stronger? And what about mixing liquors? In this post, we explore the dangers of mixing different types of alcohol and provide tips on how to better manage our alcohol consumption. Let’s dive in!

Beer or Liquor: Which Makes Us Sicker? 

A person mixing different types of alcohol at a bar

Many people assume that mixing drinks increases the risk of getting sick or makes our hangovers worse (hence all those rhyming warnings). But this actually isn’t true. Drinking a beer and then a gin and tonic will probably have the same effect on our body as sticking to one type of alcoholic beverage. 

When it comes to drinking alcohol, experts agree that there are only two things that increase our likelihood of getting sick or experiencing a hangover. Let’s take a closer look: 

  • The amount of alcohol we consume. The volume of alcohol we drink is the biggest factor determining how good or bad we’ll feel. The more alcohol we consume, the greater our chance of getting sick.
  • The rate at which we consume alcohol. How quickly we consume alcohol influences how potent its effects are during the time of consumption and the next day. For instance, we’ll feel intoxicated more quickly if we consume a shot in a couple of seconds compared to drinking a beer over the course of 30 minutes. The more intoxicated we become, the greater our chance of getting sick. 

Why Is Mixing Alcohol Bad?

So, why is mixing alcohol bad? The problem with mixing drinks comes down to the rate at which our body processes alcohol. When we take a sip of alcohol — whether beer, wine, or liquor — it’s quickly absorbed into our bloodstream through our stomach lining and small intestine. 

Once in our blood, alcohol is rapidly transported throughout our entire body, which is why it affects so many different bodily systems. Depending on how quickly our body’s tissues absorb alcohol, we’ll typically feel its effect within 15 to 45 minutes. 

Most alcohol that enters our body eventually ends up in the liver, which is responsible for metabolizing it, or breaking it down. Our liver can only efficiently process one standard-sized alcoholic drink per hour. In other words, it takes 1 hour for our body to metabolize just one beer, one glass of wine, or one shot. 

The amount of alcohol in our blood rises more quickly after drinking liquor than beer, due to its higher concentration of alcohol. If we drink liquor before beer, we’re likely to feel the effects of alcohol sooner. This might encourage us not to consume as much, thereby decreasing our chance of getting sick. However, drinking beer before liquor may lead to us becoming ill since our lowered inhibitions and impaired decision making may motivate us to consume higher concentrations of alcohol by doing shots or mixing stronger drinks. 

We can also think about it like this: if we drink beer and then liquor, we’ll most likely get more drunk than we would if we had started with liquor and felt the effects of alcohol earlier. If we end up getting sick, we may assume that the culprit was mixing the two types of alcohol in that order. In reality, the total amount of alcohol consumed in a short period of time caused us to become sick.

Furthermore, another problem with mixing drinks is that it makes it harder to track how much alcohol we’ve been consuming. For instance, it’s much easier to keep track of how many drinks we’ve consumed if we stick with one type of alcohol — such as beer or wine. If we’re bouncing around between cocktails, wine, beer, and shots, we’re likely to lose track pretty quickly. And when we’re not keeping track, we’re more likely to drink too much — which can cause us to get sick.

What Are the Side Effects of Mixing Alcohol?

There aren’t necessarily any side effects specifically related to mixing alcohol. In fact, one study looked at whether drinking wine before beer was associated with hangover severity and found that the order of alcoholic beverages didn’t have a significant effect.

However, certain types of alcohol may be more likely to lead to a hangover than others. This is because different types of alcohol have different congeners — toxins that result from the fermentation process. Congeners put extra stress on our liver to break down these substances and restore normal body function. 

Congeners also contribute to alcohol’s color and flavor. Darker alcohols (such as brandy, bourbon, whiskey, tequila, darker beer, and red wine) have more congeners than clear or lighter alcohols like vodka, gin, and lighter beers. Bourbon whisky, for example, contains 37 times the quantity of congeners as vodka! 

If we mix different kinds of alcohol, we may unknowingly drink higher amounts of congeners, which may lead to a more intense hangover, nausea, or dizziness the next day. Experts agree that feeling sick while intoxicated or experiencing a hangover is due largely to the amount of alcohol consumed and the time period it’s consumed over. 

Effects of Mixing Different Types of Alcohol

Why Do We Get Hungover From Alcohol?

Research suggests that hangovers are primarily caused by alcohol’s toxicity and dehydrating effects. Let’s take a closer look: 

  • Alcohol’s toxicity. When we drink, our bodies break down alcohol into several components, the first of which is acetaldehyde — a potent toxic chemical. Since our body can only process alcohol at the rate of one standard drink per hour, if we’re consuming large amounts of alcohol, acetaldehyde accumulates faster than our body can eliminate it. In the liver, acetaldehyde can cause inflammation and damage cells, contributing to that groggy, lethargic feeling the morning after drinking. 
  • Increased blood flow. Alcohol makes our blood vessels expand, a process known as vasodilation. This can lead to increased blood flow in our brain, resulting in a pounding headache.
  • Inflammation. Alcohol also increases gastric acid in our stomach, slowing the rate at which our stomach empties and inflaming the stomach lining. This can lead to nausea, vomiting, or even diarrhea. 
  • Dehydration. As a diuretic, alcohol leads to excessive water loss and dehydration. In large amounts, it can really deplete our body’s water supply and intensify our headaches.

Furthermore, there’s evidence that alcohol disrupts our immune system, which could also contribute to the symptoms of a headache, nausea, and fatigue. 

Several other factors play a role in how our body processes and tolerates alcohol. For instance, our sex might factor into hangover severity. One study found that women who had moderate to high estimated peak blood alcohol concentration (BAC) — 0.08 percent to more than 0.2 percent — reported hangovers with more severe nausea, tiredness, weakness and dizziness than men. This could be because women process alcohol differently from men: they tend to have less acetaldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), an important enzyme for metabolizing alcohol in the stomach.

Similarly, our age and weight also play a role. For instance, the older we are, the longer alcohol stays in our liver before it moves into our general bloodstream or is metabolized. Typically, older people have lower percentages of body water compared to those who are younger, which can also contribute to a higher blood alcohol content (BAC) and a slower processing time.

Alcohol and Medications: A More Dangerous Combination

Many people don’t realize that mixing alcohol with medications can be much more dangerous than mixing different types of alcohol together. Alcohol is known to interact with a wide variety of prescription and over-the-counter medications such as the following:

  • Painkillers (from opioids like Vicodin or Percocet to over-the-counter products like Tylenol or Advil)
  • Blood pressure medications
  • Statins (cholesterol medications)
  • Amphetamines (Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta)
  • Anti-anxiety medications (particularly benzodiazepines) 
  • Antidepressants
  • Antipsychotics

Mixing alcohol with these substances can lead to a higher risk of liver damage, irregular heart rate, heart attacks, overdose, and enhanced side effects from the medication. 

Tips for Managing Alcohol Consumption

We won’t have to worry about getting sick from alcohol if we avoid it entirely or consume it in moderation. Mindful drinking can be particularly effective at helping us make more intentional choices. Here are some other tips for managing our alcohol consumption:

  • Set drinking limits. It’s easy to lose track of the amount of alcohol we consume — especially if we’re mixing drinks. Decide in advance how many drinks you’ll have before you start drinking, and then stick to it. As a general rule, it’s best to limit yourself to one drink every hour. Using a notepad app on your phone can help keep you on track. 
  • Sip slowly. Try savoring each drink instead of gulping them down. It can help to stick to drinks that take time to finish, such as beer or wine (instead of shots or mixed drinks, which are intended to be gulped down).
  • Hydrate. Make sure you drink water before, during, and after drinking alcohol. A good rule of thumb is to consume a full glass of water for every alcoholic drink you have. This helps you stay hydrated and limits the amount of alcohol you consume by keeping you fuller. It also gives your liver time to metabolize the alcohol.
  • Don’t drink on an empty stomach. Eating before drinking slows alcohol absorption, giving our body more time to process it. Eating a nutritious meal high in protein or healthy fats can be particularly beneficial. You might also consider snacking while drinking: this helps us drink more slowly since it gives us another activity instead of solely drinking.
  • Choose wisely. You may be better off sticking to lighter-colored drinks, such as vodka, gin, and lighter beers, since darker ones contain more congeners — compounds that may intensify a hangover. Similarly, if we do choose to mix drinks, consider starting with a drink that has a high alcohol content and switching to something with a lower alcohol content, such as moving from vodka to beer. 

The Bottom Line

Mixing different types of alcoholic drinks doesn’t increase our risk of getting sick or having a hangover. It’s the quantity of alcohol consumed — not combined — and the rate at which we’re consuming it that influences intoxication and sickness. In other words, the problem with mixing beer and wine is that it usually leads to higher amounts of alcohol consumed more quickly in one sitting. This puts us in danger of intoxication and feeling hungover the next day.

If you’re struggling to manage your alcohol consumption, consider trying Reframe. We’re a science-backed app that has helped millions of people cut back on their alcohol consumption and enhance their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. 

Alcohol and Health
Popular
2023-08-13 9:00
Alcohol and Health
What Happens to Your Body When You Drink Tequila?
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Ever wondered what tequila really does to your body? Explore the science behind that familiar drink and discover what unfolds inside you.

23 min read

Thinking of Saying Goodbye to Tequila? Reframe Can Help!

Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!

The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.

You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.

Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.

And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).

The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!

Read Full Article  →

In the world of booze, tequila packs a unique punch. Here’s how author Laurie Perez describes it in Torpor: Though the Heart Is Warm: “We force a dull clash of cups and pour everything down at once. The hard tequila shudders that never happen in the movies. First your head feels light, then it starts receiving the distress signals from the throat, lungs, belly. Your shoulders jerk to shake off the snake that wrapped around you and squeezed. It burns. The good burn.”

It’s a party, and someone shouts "Tequila!" Suddenly, it’s shot glasses for everyone. But what exactly does that shot of tequila do to your body? Is tequila good for you? Or, rather, is tequila healthy compared to other types of booze?

Let’s just say it might not be the party pleaser it’s made out to be. After learning more about the components of tequila and the science behind it, we can understand how it affects our body at a deeper level.

Tequila: What's in It?

a man sitting at a table with shot glasses

Tequila, primarily produced in Mexico, is made from the blue agave plant. Native to Mexico's sun-drenched fields, the blue agave looks like an oversized aloe vera with long, spiky leaves, and it can take 7-10 years to reach maturity. The environment, soil composition, and cultivation techniques all play a role in giving tequila its unique profile.

There are the main types of tequila:

  • Blanco (or Silver). Unaged or aged up to 2 months and clear in color, this variety is the closest to the blue agave flavor. 
  • Joven (or Gold). Typically unaged, this type often combines blanco tequila with colorants and flavorings, resulting in a golden hue meant to imitate a reposado without the associated cost.
  • Reposado. Aged between 2 months and 1 year in oak barrels, reposado takes on some of the “vanilla” flavor of the oak. It’s light amber in color and has a smoother taste compared to blanco.
  • Añejo. Aged between 1 and 3 years in small oak barrels, this one is dark amber in color and has a smoother and more complex flavor profile.
  • Extra Añejo. Aged more than 3 years, this variety can be deep amber to quite dark in color due to extended interactions with the oak — and, it’s often the most expensive.

As for the chemical components of tequila, here’s the inside scoop:

  • Alcohol content. Tequila is made up of around 40-50% ethanol (alcohol), the psychoactive component of alcohol.
  • Natural sugars. Does tequila have sugar? Oh yes; it’s calories galore! The types of sugars derived from the blue agave plant are agavins. Agavins have a different metabolic effect from processed sugars found in other alcoholic beverages, which can influence how the body responds to tequila. Due to its high sugar content, a shot of tequila contains around 100 calories. It's like nibbling on a candy bar with every shot!
  • Terpenes and esters. These organic compounds give tequila its distinctive taste. The type and combination can vary based on factors like the fermentation process, distillation method, and aging duration.
  • Minerals. The blue agave plant absorbs minerals from the soil, and some of these make their way into tequila. These can include traces of potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Don’t be fooled — these trace minerals don’t make tequila healthy!
  • Methanol. A small quantity of methanol is a natural byproduct of the fermentation process. While excessive methanol can be harmful, regulated tequila production generally ensures its levels remain quite low.
  • Aging elements. Tequilas labeled as “reposado” (rested) or “añejo” (aged) are stored in wooden barrels for specific periods. This imparts additional flavors to the tequila, thanks to compounds from the wood like tannins, lactones, vanillin, and lignin.

Taking a Shot

When tequila enters the body, its effects include more than just a potential dance on the table. Here are 5 ways in which tequila affects the body:

Stage 1: The Absorption Phase

Tequila, like all alcoholic beverages, undergoes an absorption phase when consumed. This phase is critical in determining how quickly the effects of alcohol are felt in the body. Once ingested, the alcohol enters our bloodstream through the stomach and intestines. This is where the "buzz" starts, as our blood alcohol content (BAC) rises.

Tequila, given its alcohol content, is absorbed relatively quickly into the bloodstream. The rate of absorption can be influenced by various factors:

  • Food. Having food in the stomach can slow the absorption of tequila. Food can dilute the alcohol and delay its passage into the small intestine, where it is absorbed most efficiently.
  • Concentration. The higher the concentration of alcohol in a drink, the faster it tends to be absorbed. This means that shots of tequila, which are undiluted, can lead to a rapid increase in blood alcohol concentration.
  • Carbonation. Tequila shots are not carbonated, but it's worth noting that carbonated alcoholic drinks (like soda mixers) can speed up the absorption of alcohol.

While the liver metabolizes most of the alcohol we consume, around 20% is directly absorbed through the stomach lining into the bloodstream. This is why the effects of alcohol, including tequila, can be felt shortly after drinking.

A rapid rise in BAC leads to intoxication, reduced inhibitions, and impaired judgment. Tequila's high alcohol content and its potential for rapid absorption, especially on an empty stomach, can lead to a swift increase in BAC.

During the absorption phase, as BAC rises, we might experience mood elevation, increased sociability, and a sense of relaxation. However, these effects are short-lived, and they quickly turn negative with overconsumption. The line between pleasure and risk is thin, especially with drinks as potent as tequila.

Stage 2: The Unique Agave Effect

The agavins (natural sugars) in tequila have a unique role in the absorption process. Agavins are derived from the blue agave plant, and no, they're not similar to the agave syrup you might drizzle over your pancakes. Unlike the more commonly known agave nectar or syrup found in stores, agavins are not sweet and cannot be used as sweeteners.

If you've ever noticed that tequila gives you a different "buzz" compared to other drinks, agavins’ unique composition might be the reason. Some studies suggest they act more like dietary fibers and are not easily broken down. Bypassing the usual digestive process means that agavins might not raise blood sugar levels in the same way other sugars might.

As a result, tequila offers a slightly different metabolic experience than other alcoholic drinks, possibly leading to a smoother, more gradual sensation of intoxication. Some tequila drinkers report a “cleaner” or “smoother” buzz, which might be attributed, in part, to agavins.

But is tequila “good” for you? Before you start considering tequila a health drink, pump the brakes. While there's some talk about agavins possibly aiding in weight loss or benefiting gut health, concrete evidence is still on the horizon. Tequila is still a potent beverage, and the overall negative impact of the alcohol in it remains the same.

Stage 3: Entering the Brain

Alcohol affects neurotransmitters in the brain, impacting coordination, judgment, and mood, and tequila is no exception. In fact, its rapid absorption might lead to faster perceived effects on mood and judgment.

Once tequila is in the bloodstream, it makes a beeline for the brain. There it interferes with several processes, and the effects can take effect quite quickly:

  • GABA. This neurotransmitter helps keep the brain calm and relaxed. Tequila amplifies GABA's calming effects, often leading to a feeling of relaxation or sleepiness.
  • Glutamate. This is the "go-getter" neurotransmitter that helps our neurons fire. Tequila inhibits this action, slowing things down and affecting our reaction time.
  • Dopamine. When we sip tequila, our brain releases the pleasure and reward neurotransmitter dopamine, which contributes to the temporary pleasurable sensations.
  • Prefrontal cortex. Tequila can mellow out the prefrontal cortex, the area of our brain responsible for decision-making and impulse control. This leads to a more relaxed approach to decisions, which, depending on the circumstances, might either be amusing or something you'd rather forget.
  • Hippocampus. The hippocampus, our brain's memory center, can get a bit foggy with too much tequila; new memories might be slow to form or not made at all. 
Tequila's Effects on the Body

Stage 4: The Dehydration Twist

We've all been there — waking up the morning after a tequila night with a mouth that feels like the Sahara and a thirst that could drain a water cooler. Why can tequila leave us so parched?

  • The alcohol effect. Tequila, like other alcohol, dehydrates the body. Alcohol’s diuretic properties cause the body to lose fluids. We're accelerating the loss of fluids with every sip or shot. Tequila, which is quite potent, can result in a swift onset of dehydration symptoms. This is often a significant player in the dreaded tequila-induced hangover.
  • More than thirst. The increased urination isn't just expelling water. It's also depleting our body of essential salts and minerals, like potassium while contributing to weakness, fatigue, and muscle cramps.
  • Impact on the brain. Dehydration doesn’t just impact the body. The brain can feel it, too. Our brain cells need a good balance of water and various elements to function optimally. When we're dehydrated, cognitive processes like focus, memory, and mood regulation suffer.
  • The hangover connection. Feeling like your head's in a vice grip after a night of tequila? Dehydration is a significant culprit. A lack of proper hydration can lead to headaches or exacerbate the hangover blues.
  • Combatting the dry spell. The good news? It’s possible to mitigate dehydration. Pairing tequila shots or cocktails with regular sips of water can help replenish lost fluids. Electrolyte-rich beverages can also balance out the minerals we lose.

Stage 5: Body Temperature Fluctuations

Tequila can cause a rapid spike in body temperature. That warmth that we may feel right after a shot? It's not just the burn of the drink — it’s our body reacting to the alcohol.

Tequila has a direct influence on our body's temperature dynamics:

  • The initial warmth. After taking a shot, many people report feeling a sudden warmth. That’s because alcohol, including tequila, causes blood vessels to dilate or expand, particularly those closer to the skin's surface. This increased blood flow initially makes our skin feel warm and toasty.
  • Core temperature dip. With all that warm blood rushing to our skin, there’s less blood in our core, which causes our internal temperature to drop slightly. That’s why, after the initial warmth, we might feel a bit chillier than usual.
  • Mild metabolism boost. The body works to metabolize the alcohol, which can temporarily increase your metabolic rate. This extra activity might produce a bit more internal heat, contributing to the feeling of warmth.
  • Sweating it out. Due to the temperature shift and increased metabolism, we might find ourselves sweating a bit more than usual after tequila consumption. It's the body's way of trying to regulate and maintain a comfortable temperature.
  • Chilling out. After the tequila's effects wear off and the body's temperature-regulating mechanisms come back into play, there might be a bit of overcompensation. This could result in feeling colder than usual once the initial warmth fades away.

As we can see, tequila can have a profound effect on the physical processes in our body, some of which might not be obvious at first glance.

Tequila and Health: More Than Just a Hangover

While a hangover is a temporary discomfort, consistent drinking can lead to more severe health concerns:

  • Liver disease. All alcohol strains the liver, but tequila’s specific components might interact with the liver differently. The natural sugars from the agave plant are processed differently in the body than other alcohol sugars, and excessive tequila drinking poses significant liver damage risks. Over time, the liver's constant battle with alcohol can lead to diseases like cirrhosis.
  • Addiction risks. Alcohol can lead to addiction, and tequila is no exception. Dependence can develop, affecting both physical and mental health.
  • Weight gain. Remember earlier when we asked, “Does tequila have sugar?” The verdict is clear: tequila's natural sugars — agavins — might not raise blood glucose levels like other sugars, but they still come packed with calories (there are about 100 calories in a 1.5 oz shot of tequila). Regular tequila shots can add up, making a dent in your daily calorie intake and potentially leading to weight gain.

Action Steps for Cutting Back or Quitting

Now that you have the inside scoop on what tequila does to your body, here's how you can take action:

  • Educate yourself. Understanding the impact of tequila on your body is the first step. Knowledge is power!
  • Infuse your own flavors. Experiment with infusing non-alcoholic beverages with flavors commonly paired with tequila, like lime, jalapeno, or even a hint of salt. This provides the essence without the alcohol.
  • Discover the world of mocktails. Explore non-alcoholic tequila alternatives or mocktails that mimic tequila’s flavor profile. Dive into recipes that use ingredients like agave syrup and fresh lime to get that tequila-esque kick without the actual spirits.
  • Connect with like-minded souls. Find (or create!) a community of people looking to moderate their alcohol intake. Sharing experiences, challenges, and triumphs can make the journey easier and more fulfilling. (The forum on the Reframe app is a great place to make connections!)
  • Plan ahead for social events. If you know you'll be around tequila, decide your limits beforehand. Consider bringing your own non-alcoholic alternative or even offering to be the designated driver. This gives you a valuable role and an inarguable reason to abstain.
  • Reward system. Create a reward chart for yourself. For every milestone (like a week without tequila or attending a party and sticking to mocktails), treat yourself to something special. Give yourself a spa day, a new book, or even a trip to a place you've always wanted to visit.

Own Your Story

Tequila may have a reputation as the life of the party, but the real story unfolds inside your body. By understanding the science behind the booze and taking actionable steps, you can make more informed decisions about your relationship with tequila and rewrite the story in a way that reflects the authentic you.

Remember, life's a party even without the tequila shots. Celebrate your health and well-being!

In the world of booze, tequila packs a unique punch. Here’s how author Laurie Perez describes it in Torpor: Though the Heart Is Warm: “We force a dull clash of cups and pour everything down at once. The hard tequila shudders that never happen in the movies. First your head feels light, then it starts receiving the distress signals from the throat, lungs, belly. Your shoulders jerk to shake off the snake that wrapped around you and squeezed. It burns. The good burn.”

It’s a party, and someone shouts "Tequila!" Suddenly, it’s shot glasses for everyone. But what exactly does that shot of tequila do to your body? Is tequila good for you? Or, rather, is tequila healthy compared to other types of booze?

Let’s just say it might not be the party pleaser it’s made out to be. After learning more about the components of tequila and the science behind it, we can understand how it affects our body at a deeper level.

Tequila: What's in It?

a man sitting at a table with shot glasses

Tequila, primarily produced in Mexico, is made from the blue agave plant. Native to Mexico's sun-drenched fields, the blue agave looks like an oversized aloe vera with long, spiky leaves, and it can take 7-10 years to reach maturity. The environment, soil composition, and cultivation techniques all play a role in giving tequila its unique profile.

There are the main types of tequila:

  • Blanco (or Silver). Unaged or aged up to 2 months and clear in color, this variety is the closest to the blue agave flavor. 
  • Joven (or Gold). Typically unaged, this type often combines blanco tequila with colorants and flavorings, resulting in a golden hue meant to imitate a reposado without the associated cost.
  • Reposado. Aged between 2 months and 1 year in oak barrels, reposado takes on some of the “vanilla” flavor of the oak. It’s light amber in color and has a smoother taste compared to blanco.
  • Añejo. Aged between 1 and 3 years in small oak barrels, this one is dark amber in color and has a smoother and more complex flavor profile.
  • Extra Añejo. Aged more than 3 years, this variety can be deep amber to quite dark in color due to extended interactions with the oak — and, it’s often the most expensive.

As for the chemical components of tequila, here’s the inside scoop:

  • Alcohol content. Tequila is made up of around 40-50% ethanol (alcohol), the psychoactive component of alcohol.
  • Natural sugars. Does tequila have sugar? Oh yes; it’s calories galore! The types of sugars derived from the blue agave plant are agavins. Agavins have a different metabolic effect from processed sugars found in other alcoholic beverages, which can influence how the body responds to tequila. Due to its high sugar content, a shot of tequila contains around 100 calories. It's like nibbling on a candy bar with every shot!
  • Terpenes and esters. These organic compounds give tequila its distinctive taste. The type and combination can vary based on factors like the fermentation process, distillation method, and aging duration.
  • Minerals. The blue agave plant absorbs minerals from the soil, and some of these make their way into tequila. These can include traces of potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Don’t be fooled — these trace minerals don’t make tequila healthy!
  • Methanol. A small quantity of methanol is a natural byproduct of the fermentation process. While excessive methanol can be harmful, regulated tequila production generally ensures its levels remain quite low.
  • Aging elements. Tequilas labeled as “reposado” (rested) or “añejo” (aged) are stored in wooden barrels for specific periods. This imparts additional flavors to the tequila, thanks to compounds from the wood like tannins, lactones, vanillin, and lignin.

Taking a Shot

When tequila enters the body, its effects include more than just a potential dance on the table. Here are 5 ways in which tequila affects the body:

Stage 1: The Absorption Phase

Tequila, like all alcoholic beverages, undergoes an absorption phase when consumed. This phase is critical in determining how quickly the effects of alcohol are felt in the body. Once ingested, the alcohol enters our bloodstream through the stomach and intestines. This is where the "buzz" starts, as our blood alcohol content (BAC) rises.

Tequila, given its alcohol content, is absorbed relatively quickly into the bloodstream. The rate of absorption can be influenced by various factors:

  • Food. Having food in the stomach can slow the absorption of tequila. Food can dilute the alcohol and delay its passage into the small intestine, where it is absorbed most efficiently.
  • Concentration. The higher the concentration of alcohol in a drink, the faster it tends to be absorbed. This means that shots of tequila, which are undiluted, can lead to a rapid increase in blood alcohol concentration.
  • Carbonation. Tequila shots are not carbonated, but it's worth noting that carbonated alcoholic drinks (like soda mixers) can speed up the absorption of alcohol.

While the liver metabolizes most of the alcohol we consume, around 20% is directly absorbed through the stomach lining into the bloodstream. This is why the effects of alcohol, including tequila, can be felt shortly after drinking.

A rapid rise in BAC leads to intoxication, reduced inhibitions, and impaired judgment. Tequila's high alcohol content and its potential for rapid absorption, especially on an empty stomach, can lead to a swift increase in BAC.

During the absorption phase, as BAC rises, we might experience mood elevation, increased sociability, and a sense of relaxation. However, these effects are short-lived, and they quickly turn negative with overconsumption. The line between pleasure and risk is thin, especially with drinks as potent as tequila.

Stage 2: The Unique Agave Effect

The agavins (natural sugars) in tequila have a unique role in the absorption process. Agavins are derived from the blue agave plant, and no, they're not similar to the agave syrup you might drizzle over your pancakes. Unlike the more commonly known agave nectar or syrup found in stores, agavins are not sweet and cannot be used as sweeteners.

If you've ever noticed that tequila gives you a different "buzz" compared to other drinks, agavins’ unique composition might be the reason. Some studies suggest they act more like dietary fibers and are not easily broken down. Bypassing the usual digestive process means that agavins might not raise blood sugar levels in the same way other sugars might.

As a result, tequila offers a slightly different metabolic experience than other alcoholic drinks, possibly leading to a smoother, more gradual sensation of intoxication. Some tequila drinkers report a “cleaner” or “smoother” buzz, which might be attributed, in part, to agavins.

But is tequila “good” for you? Before you start considering tequila a health drink, pump the brakes. While there's some talk about agavins possibly aiding in weight loss or benefiting gut health, concrete evidence is still on the horizon. Tequila is still a potent beverage, and the overall negative impact of the alcohol in it remains the same.

Stage 3: Entering the Brain

Alcohol affects neurotransmitters in the brain, impacting coordination, judgment, and mood, and tequila is no exception. In fact, its rapid absorption might lead to faster perceived effects on mood and judgment.

Once tequila is in the bloodstream, it makes a beeline for the brain. There it interferes with several processes, and the effects can take effect quite quickly:

  • GABA. This neurotransmitter helps keep the brain calm and relaxed. Tequila amplifies GABA's calming effects, often leading to a feeling of relaxation or sleepiness.
  • Glutamate. This is the "go-getter" neurotransmitter that helps our neurons fire. Tequila inhibits this action, slowing things down and affecting our reaction time.
  • Dopamine. When we sip tequila, our brain releases the pleasure and reward neurotransmitter dopamine, which contributes to the temporary pleasurable sensations.
  • Prefrontal cortex. Tequila can mellow out the prefrontal cortex, the area of our brain responsible for decision-making and impulse control. This leads to a more relaxed approach to decisions, which, depending on the circumstances, might either be amusing or something you'd rather forget.
  • Hippocampus. The hippocampus, our brain's memory center, can get a bit foggy with too much tequila; new memories might be slow to form or not made at all. 
Tequila's Effects on the Body

Stage 4: The Dehydration Twist

We've all been there — waking up the morning after a tequila night with a mouth that feels like the Sahara and a thirst that could drain a water cooler. Why can tequila leave us so parched?

  • The alcohol effect. Tequila, like other alcohol, dehydrates the body. Alcohol’s diuretic properties cause the body to lose fluids. We're accelerating the loss of fluids with every sip or shot. Tequila, which is quite potent, can result in a swift onset of dehydration symptoms. This is often a significant player in the dreaded tequila-induced hangover.
  • More than thirst. The increased urination isn't just expelling water. It's also depleting our body of essential salts and minerals, like potassium while contributing to weakness, fatigue, and muscle cramps.
  • Impact on the brain. Dehydration doesn’t just impact the body. The brain can feel it, too. Our brain cells need a good balance of water and various elements to function optimally. When we're dehydrated, cognitive processes like focus, memory, and mood regulation suffer.
  • The hangover connection. Feeling like your head's in a vice grip after a night of tequila? Dehydration is a significant culprit. A lack of proper hydration can lead to headaches or exacerbate the hangover blues.
  • Combatting the dry spell. The good news? It’s possible to mitigate dehydration. Pairing tequila shots or cocktails with regular sips of water can help replenish lost fluids. Electrolyte-rich beverages can also balance out the minerals we lose.

Stage 5: Body Temperature Fluctuations

Tequila can cause a rapid spike in body temperature. That warmth that we may feel right after a shot? It's not just the burn of the drink — it’s our body reacting to the alcohol.

Tequila has a direct influence on our body's temperature dynamics:

  • The initial warmth. After taking a shot, many people report feeling a sudden warmth. That’s because alcohol, including tequila, causes blood vessels to dilate or expand, particularly those closer to the skin's surface. This increased blood flow initially makes our skin feel warm and toasty.
  • Core temperature dip. With all that warm blood rushing to our skin, there’s less blood in our core, which causes our internal temperature to drop slightly. That’s why, after the initial warmth, we might feel a bit chillier than usual.
  • Mild metabolism boost. The body works to metabolize the alcohol, which can temporarily increase your metabolic rate. This extra activity might produce a bit more internal heat, contributing to the feeling of warmth.
  • Sweating it out. Due to the temperature shift and increased metabolism, we might find ourselves sweating a bit more than usual after tequila consumption. It's the body's way of trying to regulate and maintain a comfortable temperature.
  • Chilling out. After the tequila's effects wear off and the body's temperature-regulating mechanisms come back into play, there might be a bit of overcompensation. This could result in feeling colder than usual once the initial warmth fades away.

As we can see, tequila can have a profound effect on the physical processes in our body, some of which might not be obvious at first glance.

Tequila and Health: More Than Just a Hangover

While a hangover is a temporary discomfort, consistent drinking can lead to more severe health concerns:

  • Liver disease. All alcohol strains the liver, but tequila’s specific components might interact with the liver differently. The natural sugars from the agave plant are processed differently in the body than other alcohol sugars, and excessive tequila drinking poses significant liver damage risks. Over time, the liver's constant battle with alcohol can lead to diseases like cirrhosis.
  • Addiction risks. Alcohol can lead to addiction, and tequila is no exception. Dependence can develop, affecting both physical and mental health.
  • Weight gain. Remember earlier when we asked, “Does tequila have sugar?” The verdict is clear: tequila's natural sugars — agavins — might not raise blood glucose levels like other sugars, but they still come packed with calories (there are about 100 calories in a 1.5 oz shot of tequila). Regular tequila shots can add up, making a dent in your daily calorie intake and potentially leading to weight gain.

Action Steps for Cutting Back or Quitting

Now that you have the inside scoop on what tequila does to your body, here's how you can take action:

  • Educate yourself. Understanding the impact of tequila on your body is the first step. Knowledge is power!
  • Infuse your own flavors. Experiment with infusing non-alcoholic beverages with flavors commonly paired with tequila, like lime, jalapeno, or even a hint of salt. This provides the essence without the alcohol.
  • Discover the world of mocktails. Explore non-alcoholic tequila alternatives or mocktails that mimic tequila’s flavor profile. Dive into recipes that use ingredients like agave syrup and fresh lime to get that tequila-esque kick without the actual spirits.
  • Connect with like-minded souls. Find (or create!) a community of people looking to moderate their alcohol intake. Sharing experiences, challenges, and triumphs can make the journey easier and more fulfilling. (The forum on the Reframe app is a great place to make connections!)
  • Plan ahead for social events. If you know you'll be around tequila, decide your limits beforehand. Consider bringing your own non-alcoholic alternative or even offering to be the designated driver. This gives you a valuable role and an inarguable reason to abstain.
  • Reward system. Create a reward chart for yourself. For every milestone (like a week without tequila or attending a party and sticking to mocktails), treat yourself to something special. Give yourself a spa day, a new book, or even a trip to a place you've always wanted to visit.

Own Your Story

Tequila may have a reputation as the life of the party, but the real story unfolds inside your body. By understanding the science behind the booze and taking actionable steps, you can make more informed decisions about your relationship with tequila and rewrite the story in a way that reflects the authentic you.

Remember, life's a party even without the tequila shots. Celebrate your health and well-being!

Alcohol and Health
Popular
2023-08-06 9:00
Alcohol and Health
Which Alcoholic Beverages Are Best if I Have Heartburn?
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Wondering which drinks could trigger acid reflux? Dive into our latest blog for the science-backed scoop on which beverages play nice with your stomach and which might stir up trouble.

28 min read

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Most of us have felt it at some point: that sudden, uncomfortable burning sensation that starts in the middle of the chest and can creep its way up to the throat. Heartburn — that oh-so-common discomfort — can put a damper on a pizza night or yoga class and can keep us from getting a good night’s sleep.

Believe it or not, heartburn isn't a modern phenomenon resulting from our love for spicy tacos or greasy burgers. Our ancestors experienced it, too! Historical texts and records from ancient Greece and Egypt describe symptoms that closely resemble modern-day heartburn. They even had their own remedies: a mixture of herbs, roots, and sometimes, quirky rituals.

It’s also a known fact that alcohol can make the problem worse. Let’s explore the connection between heartburn, drinking alcohol, and what different types of alcohol mean for acid reflux.

Heartburn 101: The Basics

2 alcoholic beverages with lemon, orange, ice and mint

Let’s start by clarifying: in spite of what the name suggests, heartburn has nothing to do with the heart. The term likely comes from the location of the pain. The burning sensation often felt in the center of the chest can mimic the discomfort one might feel with heart issues. However, heartburn is all about the digestive system.

When we eat, our food travels from the mouth to the stomach via the esophagus. At the bottom of the esophagus is a muscular valve called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Its main job is to act as a one-way gate, letting food in and keeping stomach acids from coming back up.

However, sometimes, the LES doesn't close properly or opens too often, allowing stomach acid to creep up into the esophagus. This acid, which is great for breaking down food in the stomach, irritates the esophagus lining, leading to that familiar burning sensation.

Certain factors can make acid reflux more likely:

  • Spicy dishes, fatty foods, and certain beverages
  • Overeating or lying down right after a meal
  • Stress and lack of sleep
  • Smoking and certain medications

Each case is a little different, and triggers can shift over time. For example, some people find that certain foods that used to cause heartburn no longer do, while new culprits might appear on the scene. It’s good to keep track of the factors that seem to aggravate heartburn — preventing it before it begins is always our best bet.

Heartburn — or Something Else?

It's worth noting that occasional heartburn is common and is not a cause for alarm. However, frequent episodes can be a sign of a more serious condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This chronic condition can lead to complications if not addressed. The combination of alcohol and GERD can worsen symptoms such as heartburn. If heartburn symptoms persist, it's essential to see a healthcare professional. For people already diagnosed with GERD, researching the relationship between GERD and alcohol may be helpful for understanding and mitigating adverse symptoms.

The Alcohol and Acid Connection

If you've ever indulged in a glass of wine, a cold beer, or a cocktail and soon after felt the sting of heartburn, you're not alone. While alcohol might be responsible for many merry moments and relaxed evenings, it can be a prime culprit behind that unwelcome fiery feeling in your chest. Let's demystify why alcohol and heartburn often go hand in hand.

  • Relaxed LES. Alcohol relaxes the LES, making it easy for stomach acid to splash back into the esophagus — the primary cause of heartburn.
  • Stomach acid production. Alcohol doesn't just stop at making the LES relaxed. It also stimulates the stomach to produce more acid. A higher amount of stomach acid means that there's a greater chance for it to move upwards when the LES isn’t working effectively.
  • Stomach emptying slowed down. Under regular circumstances, our stomach pushes food down into the small intestine after digesting it. However, alcohol can slow down this process, providing more opportunity for acid to rise and cause discomfort.
  • Mucosal damage. The stomach lining is equipped with a protective layer to shield it from the potent acid it holds. The esophagus, however, isn’t so fortunate. Alcohol can irritate and even damage the esophageal mucosa, making it more susceptible to the burn of acid reflux.

When you have heartburn, drinking alcohol is clearly a gamble. While it's undeniable that alcohol plays a part in inducing heartburn, not all drinks are made equal when it comes to acid reflux. For instance, carbonated alcoholic beverages (like certain beers) increase the risk of heartburn due to their bubbly nature. Meanwhile, high-proof spirits might irritate the esophagus more due to their higher alcohol content. Let’s explore this subject of heartburn from alcohol in more detail as we take a closer look at wine, beer, hard liquor, and mixed drinks, and learn what is the best alcoholic drink for acid reflux!

Fact #1: White Wine Causes More Heartburn Than Red

When deciding between red and white wine, you might be surprised to learn that the color does play a role in its potential to cause acid reflux. So if you're choosing between the two, red wine might be the lesser of two evils. But remember: it still has the potential to cause heartburn.

  • White wine. That crisp, sharp taste in many white wines? It comes from the higher acid content. So, for those sensitive to acid reflux, sipping on a chardonnay might increase the chances of feeling the burn.
  • Red wine. Although generally less acidic than white wines, red wines still contain acid and can contribute to heartburn. However, other factors in red wine, such as tannins, might irritate the esophagus for some people.

Moreover, wine is often enjoyed with a meal. The type of food you pair with your wine can either amplify or mitigate heartburn risks. A spicy or very fatty meal, combined with wine, can be a recipe for increased acid reflux. Pairing wine with milder foods might help balance things out.

Tips for Wine Lovers With Heartburn Concerns

  1. Sip slowly. Pace yourself to give your body more time to process the alcohol and acid.
  2. Stay upright. Try not to recline or lie down after enjoying your glass. Keeping an upright posture helps keep stomach acid in its place.
  3. Moderation is key. Limit the amount you consume in one sitting. A smaller quantity can reduce the chance of triggering heartburn.
  4. Stay hydrated. Drinking water alongside your wine can help dilute stomach acid and wash down any that has splashed into the esophagus.
Alcoholic Beverages Less Likely To Trigger Heartburn

Fact #2: Beer Gives Bubble Troubles

Beer, often referred to as “liquid bread,” has been a part of human life for thousands of years. However, for those prone to acid reflux, that comforting mug of beer might sometimes lead to uncomfortable consequences. Let's take a closer look at beer and its ties to acid reflux.

Beer is a fermented beverage made primarily from water, barley, hops, and yeast. The fermentation process results not just in alcohol — which enough to cause acid reflux by relaxing the LES — but also in certain compounds and gasses that can play a role in digestion:

  • Carbonation. The bubbles in your beer might look inviting, but they can be troublemakers! Carbonated beverages can lead to increased stomach gas. This additional pressure can push stomach acid into the esophagus, leading to reflux.
  • Acidity. Beer, like other alcoholic drinks, is inherently acidic. Different beers will have varying levels of acidity based on their brewing process and ingredients, but any acid can contribute to reflux when paired with a weakened LES.

The wide world of beer offers a diverse range of flavors and styles, from light lagers to rich stouts. The differences in ingredients and brewing processes can affect their potential to instigate reflux. While individual reactions may vary, it's always a good idea to be mindful and notice if a particular type of beer consistently triggers discomfort.

Guidance for Beer Enthusiasts With Reflux Concerns

  • Limit quantity. Opt for a smaller glass if available. By reducing the volume consumed, you can potentially reduce the chance of reflux.
  • Ditch the bubbles. If you’re pouring beer into a glass, let it sit for a moment to allow some carbonation to escape.
  • Watch the snacks. Beer is often paired with spicy or fried snacks. These can compound the reflux risk, so choose milder, non-acidic accompaniments.
  • Mind your posture. After enjoying your beer, try to stay upright for a while. Gravity can be your ally in keeping stomach contents down.

Fact #3: Hard Liquor Leads to High-Proof Blues

Spirits like whiskey, gin, and vodka might seem tempting, but they contain higher alcohol content, which can more readily relax the esophageal sphincter.

When it comes to beverages, hard liquor stands apart with its potent punch and distinct flavors. Whether it's a neat shot of whiskey, a gin on the rocks, or a simple vodka mixer, spirits are often the go-to choice for many. But how do these strong beverages fare when it comes to acid reflux? Let's sift through the facts.

The distinguishing feature of hard liquor over other alcoholic beverages is its higher alcohol content. Here's how that plays into acid reflux:

  • The LES factor. As we've discussed with other alcoholic beverages, the LES (remember, that’s the lower esophageal sphincter) can become more relaxed with alcohol consumption. Given the higher concentration of alcohol in spirits, there's a greater potential for the LES to let its guard down, allowing acid to make an unwelcome ascent.
  • Stomach lining irritation. Spirits, due to their high alcohol content, can be more irritating to the stomach lining, potentially increasing acid production.
  • Quantity vs. concentration. While a typical serving of hard liquor may seem small compared to a glass of beer or wine, the concentration of alcohol is significantly higher. This means even a small amount can have a pronounced effect when it comes to triggering acid reflux.

Often, spirits aren't consumed alone. They're mixed with a variety of beverages, from sodas to fruit juices. These mixers can be a double-edged sword:

  • Carbonated mixers. Just as with beer, carbonation in mixers can lead to a build-up of gas in the stomach, pushing acid into the esophagus.
  • Acidic juices. Citrus mixers, like orange or cranberry juice, add additional acid to the mix, potentially exacerbating reflux symptoms

Tips for Navigating Spirits With Acid Reflux

  1. Dilution solution. Consider diluting spirits with non-acidic, non-carbonated mixers. Water or herbal infusions can be good choices.
  2. Sip slowly. Given their strength, spirits are best enjoyed slowly. This also gives your body more time to process the alcohol, reducing its impact on the LES.
  3. Limit intake. One drink might be enough to cause discomfort for some. Listen to your body and know when to stop.
  4. Stay elevated. If you're settling down after a drink, keep your head and upper body elevated to help prevent acid from moving up the esophagus.

Fact #4: You’ll Be Burned by Mixed Drinks

Mixed drinks, with their variety and versatility, often steal the spotlight at gatherings and nights out. But how do these concoctions interact with acid reflux?

When we talk about mixed drinks, we're addressing a fusion of ingredients. Each component can play a role in influencing heartburn:

  • Alcohol. As the base, alcohol — regardless of the type — has the potential to relax the LES, setting the stage for acid reflux.
  • Acidic ingredients. Cocktails with acidic mixers, such as citrus juices or sodas, can be a double whammy. The alcohol combined with the acidic base can spell trouble for heartburn sufferers. 
  • Carbonation. Fizzy mixers, like tonic water or soda, can increase stomach pressure, leading to a greater risk of acid creeping up.
  • Sugary syrups. While not directly causing acid reflux, high sugar content can delay stomach emptying, increasing the duration acid stays in the stomach.

Some mixed drinks inherently pose a higher risk for reflux than others due to their ingredient list. A cocktail with multiple acidic components and carbonation might be more problematic than a simpler mix with non-acidic elements.

Guidelines for a Gentler Mixed Drink Experience

For those who have a soft spot for mixed drinks but are wary of acid reflux, a bit of cocktail creativity can go a long way:

  1. Know your ingredients. Being informed about what goes into your drink can help you anticipate its potential effects.
  2. Communicate with your bartender. If you're at a bar or restaurant, don't hesitate to ask for modifications to make your drink more reflux-friendly.
  3. Opt for smaller servings. A smaller drink means a lesser quantity of each potentially problematic ingredient.
  4. Substitute wisely. Choose non-acidic mixers when possible. For instance, swap out tonic water for a non-carbonated alternative, or use watermelon juice in place of lemon.
  5. Limit layers. The more components in a drink, the harder it is to gauge its potential for causing discomfort. Keep your mixes straightforward.
  6. Sip slowly. Sipping slowly can reduce the amount of acid introduced to the stomach at once, and it gives the body a better shot at processing the drink without overburdening the digestive system.
  7. Stay active. Engaging in light activity after your drink, like standing or walking, can help combat the effects of reflux.

What Should You Drink If You Have Acid Reflux?

So after diving deep into the world of wine, beer, hard liquor, and mixed drinks, what's the consensus on which are the best options for people dealing with acid reflux? Let's bring it all together.

If you’re struggling with acid reflux, avoid anything that will irritate your digestive tract further. In addition to alcohol, coffee and sometimes green tea can be an irritant, so opt for chamomile or rooibos instead. Smoothies, coconut water, and non-acidic juices are all great options as well. And if you’re set on having an alcoholic drink, choose one that has a lower alcohol content and low acidity, such as a light beer.

Least Troublesome Options

  • Diluted hard liquor. When diluted adequately with non-acidic, non-carbonated mixers like herbal infusions or plain water, spirits can be less irritating.
  • Simplified mixed drinks. Concoctions with fewer ingredients that are low in acidity and sugar can make for a more stomach-friendly experience.

Proceed With Caution

  • Red wine. While still capable of inducing acid reflux, red wine generally has less acidity compared to its white counterpart.
  • Light beer. Although not ideal, lighter beers with lower alcohol content are better than heavier, more robust brews when it comes to acid reflux.

Best To Avoid

  • White wine. With higher acidity levels, white wines are generally more likely to trigger acid reflux.
  • Complex cocktails. The more ingredients, especially acidic and carbonated ones, the higher the chances of experiencing discomfort.
  • Strong beers. Beers with high alcohol content are more likely to relax the LES and irritate the stomach lining.
  • Straight-up spirits. Consumed without dilution, hard liquor can be the most problematic due to its high alcohol content.

General Tips for Managing Heartburn

Understanding the roots and mechanics of heartburn can provide not just relief but empowerment. It's always good to know what's happening inside our body and why. 

Thankfully, with modern science and medical advancements, we have a clearer understanding of heartburn's causes and treatments, from over-the-counter antacids to lifestyle changes, making it easier for us to find relief. These are some common treatments:

  • Over-the-counter antacids. Products like Tums, Rolaids, and Maalox can neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief.
  • H2 blockers. Medications like famotidine (Pepcid) reduce acid production in the stomach. Potential side effects include headache, diarrhea, constipation, dizziness, and occasionally changes in heart rate and mood. Rarely, they might lead to liver or kidney issues, and interactions with other medications.
  • Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). These drugs, including omeprazole (Prilosec), lansoprazole (Prevacid), and esomeprazole (Nexium), also reduce acid production and are generally more effective than H2 blockers. Potential side effects include headache, diarrhea, nausea, and increased risk of bone fractures, kidney disease, and certain infections. Long-term use may also be associated with vitamin B12 deficiency and stomach problems.
  • Prokinetics. Drugs like metoclopramide can help strengthen the LES and speed up stomach emptying, though they're not commonly prescribed due to potential side effects, which include diarrhea, nausea, headache, and in some cases, extrapyramidal symptoms like tremors and involuntary movements. Some may also be associated with increased prolactin levels or cardiovascular effects.
  • Lifestyle changes. This includes avoiding trigger foods, not eating before bedtime, elevating the head while sleeping, and maintaining a healthy weight.
  • Wearing loose clothing. Tight clothing can put additional pressure on the stomach, exacerbating heartburn.
  • Natural remedies. Some people find relief with remedies such as chewing gum (it stimulates saliva production, which can neutralize acid), drinking a baking soda solution, or consuming aloe vera juice.
  • Avoiding tobacco and alcohol. Both can relax the LES, so reducing or eliminating them can help.
  • Surgery. In severe cases where medications and lifestyle changes don't help, surgical procedures like fundoplication can be used to strengthen the LES.

How To Avoid Heartburn When Drinking

Keep these general tips in mind to avoid alcohol heartburn:

  • Keep it small. Moderation is key. A small amount of alcohol might not trigger heartburn as severely as indulging.
  • Watch the clock. Drinking earlier in the day and ensuring you don't lie down right after can give your body time to process the alcohol before bedtime.
  • Food first. Eating before drinking can help protect the stomach and potentially reduce the risk of acid reflux.
  • Diluted drinks. Cutting your alcoholic beverages with water or non-acidic mixers can reduce their strength and lessen their impact on your esophagus.
  • Low-alcohol beverages. Opt for drinks with a lower alcohol content. This can be a strategy both for reducing heartburn and for those wanting to cut back on alcohol overall.
  • Say no to fizz. Avoid carbonated mixers and opt for still mixers instead.
  • Track and learn. Maintain a food and drink diary. Note what you consumed, when heartburn struck, and how severe it was. Over time, you'll be better equipped to identify your personal triggers.
  • Mind the gap. Give yourself some time between your last drink and your bedtime, allowing your stomach to settle.
  • Stay upright. After enjoying your drink, avoid reclining for a few hours. This helps keep the stomach acid where it belongs: in your stomach!

Summing Up

While cutting back or quitting alcohol is a commendable decision for numerous health reasons, understanding the nuanced relationship between heartburn and your drink choice is crucial. Always listen to your body, and when in doubt, consult with a healthcare professional. After all, a little knowledge (and maybe a splash of water in your drink) can go a long way in keeping that heartburn at bay. Here’s to smarter sipping — whether that means moderation or a refreshing glass of water!

Most of us have felt it at some point: that sudden, uncomfortable burning sensation that starts in the middle of the chest and can creep its way up to the throat. Heartburn — that oh-so-common discomfort — can put a damper on a pizza night or yoga class and can keep us from getting a good night’s sleep.

Believe it or not, heartburn isn't a modern phenomenon resulting from our love for spicy tacos or greasy burgers. Our ancestors experienced it, too! Historical texts and records from ancient Greece and Egypt describe symptoms that closely resemble modern-day heartburn. They even had their own remedies: a mixture of herbs, roots, and sometimes, quirky rituals.

It’s also a known fact that alcohol can make the problem worse. Let’s explore the connection between heartburn, drinking alcohol, and what different types of alcohol mean for acid reflux.

Heartburn 101: The Basics

2 alcoholic beverages with lemon, orange, ice and mint

Let’s start by clarifying: in spite of what the name suggests, heartburn has nothing to do with the heart. The term likely comes from the location of the pain. The burning sensation often felt in the center of the chest can mimic the discomfort one might feel with heart issues. However, heartburn is all about the digestive system.

When we eat, our food travels from the mouth to the stomach via the esophagus. At the bottom of the esophagus is a muscular valve called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Its main job is to act as a one-way gate, letting food in and keeping stomach acids from coming back up.

However, sometimes, the LES doesn't close properly or opens too often, allowing stomach acid to creep up into the esophagus. This acid, which is great for breaking down food in the stomach, irritates the esophagus lining, leading to that familiar burning sensation.

Certain factors can make acid reflux more likely:

  • Spicy dishes, fatty foods, and certain beverages
  • Overeating or lying down right after a meal
  • Stress and lack of sleep
  • Smoking and certain medications

Each case is a little different, and triggers can shift over time. For example, some people find that certain foods that used to cause heartburn no longer do, while new culprits might appear on the scene. It’s good to keep track of the factors that seem to aggravate heartburn — preventing it before it begins is always our best bet.

Heartburn — or Something Else?

It's worth noting that occasional heartburn is common and is not a cause for alarm. However, frequent episodes can be a sign of a more serious condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This chronic condition can lead to complications if not addressed. The combination of alcohol and GERD can worsen symptoms such as heartburn. If heartburn symptoms persist, it's essential to see a healthcare professional. For people already diagnosed with GERD, researching the relationship between GERD and alcohol may be helpful for understanding and mitigating adverse symptoms.

The Alcohol and Acid Connection

If you've ever indulged in a glass of wine, a cold beer, or a cocktail and soon after felt the sting of heartburn, you're not alone. While alcohol might be responsible for many merry moments and relaxed evenings, it can be a prime culprit behind that unwelcome fiery feeling in your chest. Let's demystify why alcohol and heartburn often go hand in hand.

  • Relaxed LES. Alcohol relaxes the LES, making it easy for stomach acid to splash back into the esophagus — the primary cause of heartburn.
  • Stomach acid production. Alcohol doesn't just stop at making the LES relaxed. It also stimulates the stomach to produce more acid. A higher amount of stomach acid means that there's a greater chance for it to move upwards when the LES isn’t working effectively.
  • Stomach emptying slowed down. Under regular circumstances, our stomach pushes food down into the small intestine after digesting it. However, alcohol can slow down this process, providing more opportunity for acid to rise and cause discomfort.
  • Mucosal damage. The stomach lining is equipped with a protective layer to shield it from the potent acid it holds. The esophagus, however, isn’t so fortunate. Alcohol can irritate and even damage the esophageal mucosa, making it more susceptible to the burn of acid reflux.

When you have heartburn, drinking alcohol is clearly a gamble. While it's undeniable that alcohol plays a part in inducing heartburn, not all drinks are made equal when it comes to acid reflux. For instance, carbonated alcoholic beverages (like certain beers) increase the risk of heartburn due to their bubbly nature. Meanwhile, high-proof spirits might irritate the esophagus more due to their higher alcohol content. Let’s explore this subject of heartburn from alcohol in more detail as we take a closer look at wine, beer, hard liquor, and mixed drinks, and learn what is the best alcoholic drink for acid reflux!

Fact #1: White Wine Causes More Heartburn Than Red

When deciding between red and white wine, you might be surprised to learn that the color does play a role in its potential to cause acid reflux. So if you're choosing between the two, red wine might be the lesser of two evils. But remember: it still has the potential to cause heartburn.

  • White wine. That crisp, sharp taste in many white wines? It comes from the higher acid content. So, for those sensitive to acid reflux, sipping on a chardonnay might increase the chances of feeling the burn.
  • Red wine. Although generally less acidic than white wines, red wines still contain acid and can contribute to heartburn. However, other factors in red wine, such as tannins, might irritate the esophagus for some people.

Moreover, wine is often enjoyed with a meal. The type of food you pair with your wine can either amplify or mitigate heartburn risks. A spicy or very fatty meal, combined with wine, can be a recipe for increased acid reflux. Pairing wine with milder foods might help balance things out.

Tips for Wine Lovers With Heartburn Concerns

  1. Sip slowly. Pace yourself to give your body more time to process the alcohol and acid.
  2. Stay upright. Try not to recline or lie down after enjoying your glass. Keeping an upright posture helps keep stomach acid in its place.
  3. Moderation is key. Limit the amount you consume in one sitting. A smaller quantity can reduce the chance of triggering heartburn.
  4. Stay hydrated. Drinking water alongside your wine can help dilute stomach acid and wash down any that has splashed into the esophagus.
Alcoholic Beverages Less Likely To Trigger Heartburn

Fact #2: Beer Gives Bubble Troubles

Beer, often referred to as “liquid bread,” has been a part of human life for thousands of years. However, for those prone to acid reflux, that comforting mug of beer might sometimes lead to uncomfortable consequences. Let's take a closer look at beer and its ties to acid reflux.

Beer is a fermented beverage made primarily from water, barley, hops, and yeast. The fermentation process results not just in alcohol — which enough to cause acid reflux by relaxing the LES — but also in certain compounds and gasses that can play a role in digestion:

  • Carbonation. The bubbles in your beer might look inviting, but they can be troublemakers! Carbonated beverages can lead to increased stomach gas. This additional pressure can push stomach acid into the esophagus, leading to reflux.
  • Acidity. Beer, like other alcoholic drinks, is inherently acidic. Different beers will have varying levels of acidity based on their brewing process and ingredients, but any acid can contribute to reflux when paired with a weakened LES.

The wide world of beer offers a diverse range of flavors and styles, from light lagers to rich stouts. The differences in ingredients and brewing processes can affect their potential to instigate reflux. While individual reactions may vary, it's always a good idea to be mindful and notice if a particular type of beer consistently triggers discomfort.

Guidance for Beer Enthusiasts With Reflux Concerns

  • Limit quantity. Opt for a smaller glass if available. By reducing the volume consumed, you can potentially reduce the chance of reflux.
  • Ditch the bubbles. If you’re pouring beer into a glass, let it sit for a moment to allow some carbonation to escape.
  • Watch the snacks. Beer is often paired with spicy or fried snacks. These can compound the reflux risk, so choose milder, non-acidic accompaniments.
  • Mind your posture. After enjoying your beer, try to stay upright for a while. Gravity can be your ally in keeping stomach contents down.

Fact #3: Hard Liquor Leads to High-Proof Blues

Spirits like whiskey, gin, and vodka might seem tempting, but they contain higher alcohol content, which can more readily relax the esophageal sphincter.

When it comes to beverages, hard liquor stands apart with its potent punch and distinct flavors. Whether it's a neat shot of whiskey, a gin on the rocks, or a simple vodka mixer, spirits are often the go-to choice for many. But how do these strong beverages fare when it comes to acid reflux? Let's sift through the facts.

The distinguishing feature of hard liquor over other alcoholic beverages is its higher alcohol content. Here's how that plays into acid reflux:

  • The LES factor. As we've discussed with other alcoholic beverages, the LES (remember, that’s the lower esophageal sphincter) can become more relaxed with alcohol consumption. Given the higher concentration of alcohol in spirits, there's a greater potential for the LES to let its guard down, allowing acid to make an unwelcome ascent.
  • Stomach lining irritation. Spirits, due to their high alcohol content, can be more irritating to the stomach lining, potentially increasing acid production.
  • Quantity vs. concentration. While a typical serving of hard liquor may seem small compared to a glass of beer or wine, the concentration of alcohol is significantly higher. This means even a small amount can have a pronounced effect when it comes to triggering acid reflux.

Often, spirits aren't consumed alone. They're mixed with a variety of beverages, from sodas to fruit juices. These mixers can be a double-edged sword:

  • Carbonated mixers. Just as with beer, carbonation in mixers can lead to a build-up of gas in the stomach, pushing acid into the esophagus.
  • Acidic juices. Citrus mixers, like orange or cranberry juice, add additional acid to the mix, potentially exacerbating reflux symptoms

Tips for Navigating Spirits With Acid Reflux

  1. Dilution solution. Consider diluting spirits with non-acidic, non-carbonated mixers. Water or herbal infusions can be good choices.
  2. Sip slowly. Given their strength, spirits are best enjoyed slowly. This also gives your body more time to process the alcohol, reducing its impact on the LES.
  3. Limit intake. One drink might be enough to cause discomfort for some. Listen to your body and know when to stop.
  4. Stay elevated. If you're settling down after a drink, keep your head and upper body elevated to help prevent acid from moving up the esophagus.

Fact #4: You’ll Be Burned by Mixed Drinks

Mixed drinks, with their variety and versatility, often steal the spotlight at gatherings and nights out. But how do these concoctions interact with acid reflux?

When we talk about mixed drinks, we're addressing a fusion of ingredients. Each component can play a role in influencing heartburn:

  • Alcohol. As the base, alcohol — regardless of the type — has the potential to relax the LES, setting the stage for acid reflux.
  • Acidic ingredients. Cocktails with acidic mixers, such as citrus juices or sodas, can be a double whammy. The alcohol combined with the acidic base can spell trouble for heartburn sufferers. 
  • Carbonation. Fizzy mixers, like tonic water or soda, can increase stomach pressure, leading to a greater risk of acid creeping up.
  • Sugary syrups. While not directly causing acid reflux, high sugar content can delay stomach emptying, increasing the duration acid stays in the stomach.

Some mixed drinks inherently pose a higher risk for reflux than others due to their ingredient list. A cocktail with multiple acidic components and carbonation might be more problematic than a simpler mix with non-acidic elements.

Guidelines for a Gentler Mixed Drink Experience

For those who have a soft spot for mixed drinks but are wary of acid reflux, a bit of cocktail creativity can go a long way:

  1. Know your ingredients. Being informed about what goes into your drink can help you anticipate its potential effects.
  2. Communicate with your bartender. If you're at a bar or restaurant, don't hesitate to ask for modifications to make your drink more reflux-friendly.
  3. Opt for smaller servings. A smaller drink means a lesser quantity of each potentially problematic ingredient.
  4. Substitute wisely. Choose non-acidic mixers when possible. For instance, swap out tonic water for a non-carbonated alternative, or use watermelon juice in place of lemon.
  5. Limit layers. The more components in a drink, the harder it is to gauge its potential for causing discomfort. Keep your mixes straightforward.
  6. Sip slowly. Sipping slowly can reduce the amount of acid introduced to the stomach at once, and it gives the body a better shot at processing the drink without overburdening the digestive system.
  7. Stay active. Engaging in light activity after your drink, like standing or walking, can help combat the effects of reflux.

What Should You Drink If You Have Acid Reflux?

So after diving deep into the world of wine, beer, hard liquor, and mixed drinks, what's the consensus on which are the best options for people dealing with acid reflux? Let's bring it all together.

If you’re struggling with acid reflux, avoid anything that will irritate your digestive tract further. In addition to alcohol, coffee and sometimes green tea can be an irritant, so opt for chamomile or rooibos instead. Smoothies, coconut water, and non-acidic juices are all great options as well. And if you’re set on having an alcoholic drink, choose one that has a lower alcohol content and low acidity, such as a light beer.

Least Troublesome Options

  • Diluted hard liquor. When diluted adequately with non-acidic, non-carbonated mixers like herbal infusions or plain water, spirits can be less irritating.
  • Simplified mixed drinks. Concoctions with fewer ingredients that are low in acidity and sugar can make for a more stomach-friendly experience.

Proceed With Caution

  • Red wine. While still capable of inducing acid reflux, red wine generally has less acidity compared to its white counterpart.
  • Light beer. Although not ideal, lighter beers with lower alcohol content are better than heavier, more robust brews when it comes to acid reflux.

Best To Avoid

  • White wine. With higher acidity levels, white wines are generally more likely to trigger acid reflux.
  • Complex cocktails. The more ingredients, especially acidic and carbonated ones, the higher the chances of experiencing discomfort.
  • Strong beers. Beers with high alcohol content are more likely to relax the LES and irritate the stomach lining.
  • Straight-up spirits. Consumed without dilution, hard liquor can be the most problematic due to its high alcohol content.

General Tips for Managing Heartburn

Understanding the roots and mechanics of heartburn can provide not just relief but empowerment. It's always good to know what's happening inside our body and why. 

Thankfully, with modern science and medical advancements, we have a clearer understanding of heartburn's causes and treatments, from over-the-counter antacids to lifestyle changes, making it easier for us to find relief. These are some common treatments:

  • Over-the-counter antacids. Products like Tums, Rolaids, and Maalox can neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief.
  • H2 blockers. Medications like famotidine (Pepcid) reduce acid production in the stomach. Potential side effects include headache, diarrhea, constipation, dizziness, and occasionally changes in heart rate and mood. Rarely, they might lead to liver or kidney issues, and interactions with other medications.
  • Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). These drugs, including omeprazole (Prilosec), lansoprazole (Prevacid), and esomeprazole (Nexium), also reduce acid production and are generally more effective than H2 blockers. Potential side effects include headache, diarrhea, nausea, and increased risk of bone fractures, kidney disease, and certain infections. Long-term use may also be associated with vitamin B12 deficiency and stomach problems.
  • Prokinetics. Drugs like metoclopramide can help strengthen the LES and speed up stomach emptying, though they're not commonly prescribed due to potential side effects, which include diarrhea, nausea, headache, and in some cases, extrapyramidal symptoms like tremors and involuntary movements. Some may also be associated with increased prolactin levels or cardiovascular effects.
  • Lifestyle changes. This includes avoiding trigger foods, not eating before bedtime, elevating the head while sleeping, and maintaining a healthy weight.
  • Wearing loose clothing. Tight clothing can put additional pressure on the stomach, exacerbating heartburn.
  • Natural remedies. Some people find relief with remedies such as chewing gum (it stimulates saliva production, which can neutralize acid), drinking a baking soda solution, or consuming aloe vera juice.
  • Avoiding tobacco and alcohol. Both can relax the LES, so reducing or eliminating them can help.
  • Surgery. In severe cases where medications and lifestyle changes don't help, surgical procedures like fundoplication can be used to strengthen the LES.

How To Avoid Heartburn When Drinking

Keep these general tips in mind to avoid alcohol heartburn:

  • Keep it small. Moderation is key. A small amount of alcohol might not trigger heartburn as severely as indulging.
  • Watch the clock. Drinking earlier in the day and ensuring you don't lie down right after can give your body time to process the alcohol before bedtime.
  • Food first. Eating before drinking can help protect the stomach and potentially reduce the risk of acid reflux.
  • Diluted drinks. Cutting your alcoholic beverages with water or non-acidic mixers can reduce their strength and lessen their impact on your esophagus.
  • Low-alcohol beverages. Opt for drinks with a lower alcohol content. This can be a strategy both for reducing heartburn and for those wanting to cut back on alcohol overall.
  • Say no to fizz. Avoid carbonated mixers and opt for still mixers instead.
  • Track and learn. Maintain a food and drink diary. Note what you consumed, when heartburn struck, and how severe it was. Over time, you'll be better equipped to identify your personal triggers.
  • Mind the gap. Give yourself some time between your last drink and your bedtime, allowing your stomach to settle.
  • Stay upright. After enjoying your drink, avoid reclining for a few hours. This helps keep the stomach acid where it belongs: in your stomach!

Summing Up

While cutting back or quitting alcohol is a commendable decision for numerous health reasons, understanding the nuanced relationship between heartburn and your drink choice is crucial. Always listen to your body, and when in doubt, consult with a healthcare professional. After all, a little knowledge (and maybe a splash of water in your drink) can go a long way in keeping that heartburn at bay. Here’s to smarter sipping — whether that means moderation or a refreshing glass of water!

Alcohol and Health
Popular
2023-07-04 9:00
Alcohol and Health
Why Do My Feet Swell When I Drink?
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Ever wondered why your feet swell when you drink? Our latest blog post uncovers the science behind this odd phenomenon and explores how swollen feet might be your body's way of hinting at bigger health concerns.

13 min read

Thinking of Kicking Alcohol to the Curb To Stop Your Feet From Swelling — And More?

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Read Full Article  →

When you think about the odd ways your body responds to alcohol — headaches, face flushing, and the like — what happens to your feet might not be at the top of your list. And yet it’s a familiar scenario: you’re relaxing at home after a long day, maybe you’re catching up on a new Top Chef episode while sipping something with a little kick to it — maybe a craft beer, a glass of wine, or a zesty cocktail. But the next thing you know, your shoes are feeling a little tight, your feet are starting to resemble balloons, and you're left scratching your head, wondering, “Why in the world do my feet swell when I drink? And why do my legs hurt after drinking?”

It may not seem like the most glamorous of topics, but hey, when your feet are unhappy, it’s hard to ignore the discomfort. So let’s kick off our shoes, get comfy, and look into it further.

When Booze and Body Collide

A person experiencing swelling in the feet

The thing about alcohol is that it's not just a liquid we consume — it has profound effects on our body. It's a potent diuretic, encouraging our kidneys to produce more urine and leading to dehydration and swollen feet. Think of your kidneys like the bouncers of the hydration nightclub. When alcohol comes into play, the bouncers get a bit lax, letting more water out than they should.

But there’s more. Alcohol also decreases the production of an important hormone called vasopressin. Vasopressin's job is to tell your kidneys to reabsorb water rather than flush it out. When there's less vasopressin on duty, more water escapes into your urine. You might have noticed this when you “break the seal” during a night out.

Does Alcohol Cause Swelling?

Sure — diuretic, vasopressin, got to pee. But what’s that got to do with our feet? Specifically, why does drinking cause our feet to swell and our legs to hurt?

Alcohol and Edema

As our body gets dehydrated due to the diuretic effects of alcohol, it starts to send out SOS signals — “Help! We need to compensate for the lost liquid!” One way the body does this is by drawing water from our cells into our bloodstream to maintain blood pressure and keep vital organs working correctly. This is called fluid shift — the main cause of edema, or the collection of water in body tissues  — and swollen feet can be a sign that it’s happening.

The problem is, gravity isn’t selective. Fluid that is shifting downward due to gravity can pool in our feet and ankles, leading to swelling known as peripheral edema. In short, alcohol gets our fluids all confused, and they end up where they shouldn’t be: in our feet.

Swollen Feet and Heart Problems

While so far we have been focusing on foot swelling as a temporary discomfort caused mainly by dehydration, it’s crucial to keep in mind that swollen feet can be a sign of more serious health conditions, such as heart problems.

When the heart doesn't pump blood effectively, it can cause a condition called congestive heart failure. As the heart struggles, blood flow slows down, causing blood returning to the heart through the veins to back up.

This backup leads to an increase in pressure within the veins, pushing fluid out into the surrounding tissues, causing swelling, usually in the lower parts of the body like the legs, ankles, and feet. So if you have swollen feet and also experience symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, rapid weight gain, and a persistent cough, it's a good idea to reach out to a healthcare professional ASAP — these may be signs of heart problems requiring immediate attention.

Swollen Feet and Liver Damage

Another thing to keep in mind is that swollen feet caused by drinking can be an indicator of liver damage. The liver is a powerhouse organ — it detoxifies harmful substances in the body, stores vitamins and iron, converts stored sugar to functional sugar when the body's sugar levels fall, and even helps produce blood proteins that aid in clotting. What a multitasker!

When the liver gets damaged through excessive alcohol consumption — or anything else, for that matter — it can't perform its functions as effectively. One of its jobs is to produce a protein called albumin. Albumin helps keep fluid in your bloodstream so it doesn't leak into other tissues. But when the liver is damaged and albumin production drops, this fluid can escape into surrounding tissues, causing swelling, or edema.

This fluid can accumulate in various parts of the body, but — because of gravity — it often ends up in the feet and ankles, causing them to swell. This is one way that our feet might be trying to tell us that our liver needs some help.

Liver damage can also cause fluid to accumulate in the abdominal cavity in a condition called ascites. If we’re experiencing foot and ankle swelling along with weight gain and swelling in the abdomen, these could be signs of severe liver disease, like cirrhosis — definitely not something we’d want to ignore.

(Don’t) Leave Me Breathless

Another condition to be aware of is pulmonary edema, which happens when fluid accumulates in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. It can be caused by heart conditions such as congestive heart failure, which happens when the heart struggles to pump blood effectively.

In such a scenario, increased pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs causes fluid to be pushed into the air sacs. This fluid prevents the lungs from filling with enough air, leading to shortness of breath.

While pulmonary edema itself might not directly cause swollen feet, its root cause — congestive heart failure — often does. So, the presence of swollen feet alongside symptoms such as difficulty breathing, extreme fatigue, or a rapid or irregular heartbeat should trigger an immediate call to your healthcare provider.

When To Worry

The bottom line? While the occasional swelling of feet or leg pain after a night of a bit too much drinking can be chalked up to alcohol's effects on the body, such as dehydration, persistent or severe swelling should never be ignored. If you have swollen feet accompanied by other worrying symptoms, it’s absolutely crucial to seek medical attention promptly. The earlier potential health problems are detected, the better they can be managed.

How To Prevent Swollen Feet After Drinking

How To Get Rid of Swollen Feet After Drinking

The great news is you have the power to control the impact alcohol has on your body. Reducing or even eliminating alcohol from your lifestyle can improve your health in countless ways, including preventing our feet from swelling when we drink. Here are some specific steps you can take:

  • Swap out alcoholic drinks. Try swapping out your alcoholic beverage for a non-alcoholic option. There are plenty of fun mocktail recipes that can give you the sense of treating yourself without the negative side effects.
  • Hydrate. Drink more water. This can counteract the dehydrating effects of alcohol and reduce the fluid shift that leads to swelling.
  • Limit your alcohol intake. Try to have several alcohol-free days each week. This will give your body a chance to recover and could significantly improve your overall health.
  • Get moving. Exercise can help improve your circulation, reducing the chances of fluid accumulating in your feet and ankles.
  • Elevate your feet. When you’re lounging around at home, try elevating your feet. This simple trick can help prevent fluid from pooling in your lower extremities.

Water Retention Tips

Last but not least, if you’re wondering how long alcohol-related water retention lasts, the answer is 24 to 48 hours, max. Give it a day or two, and you'll likely be back to your fabulous, non-puffy self.

As for ways to get rid of water retention after drinking alcohol, try these tips:

  • Eat potassium-rich foods. Foods like bananas, spinach, and sweet potatoes can help balance out sodium levels, reducing bloating.
  • Limit salt. Salty foods can exacerbate water retention. Keep an eye on your intake the day after drinking.
  • Consider herbal teas. Some herbal teas like dandelion or green tea can act as natural diuretics, helping your body let go of that extra water.
  • Rest up. Adequate sleep helps in the recovery process and reduces stress, another potential bloat culprit.

Summing Up

In the end, those puffy feet might be a nuisance, but they’re also your body’s way of saying “hey, maybe ease up a little.” Let’s give them a break and keep them — and you! — happy and healthy!

When you think about the odd ways your body responds to alcohol — headaches, face flushing, and the like — what happens to your feet might not be at the top of your list. And yet it’s a familiar scenario: you’re relaxing at home after a long day, maybe you’re catching up on a new Top Chef episode while sipping something with a little kick to it — maybe a craft beer, a glass of wine, or a zesty cocktail. But the next thing you know, your shoes are feeling a little tight, your feet are starting to resemble balloons, and you're left scratching your head, wondering, “Why in the world do my feet swell when I drink? And why do my legs hurt after drinking?”

It may not seem like the most glamorous of topics, but hey, when your feet are unhappy, it’s hard to ignore the discomfort. So let’s kick off our shoes, get comfy, and look into it further.

When Booze and Body Collide

A person experiencing swelling in the feet

The thing about alcohol is that it's not just a liquid we consume — it has profound effects on our body. It's a potent diuretic, encouraging our kidneys to produce more urine and leading to dehydration and swollen feet. Think of your kidneys like the bouncers of the hydration nightclub. When alcohol comes into play, the bouncers get a bit lax, letting more water out than they should.

But there’s more. Alcohol also decreases the production of an important hormone called vasopressin. Vasopressin's job is to tell your kidneys to reabsorb water rather than flush it out. When there's less vasopressin on duty, more water escapes into your urine. You might have noticed this when you “break the seal” during a night out.

Does Alcohol Cause Swelling?

Sure — diuretic, vasopressin, got to pee. But what’s that got to do with our feet? Specifically, why does drinking cause our feet to swell and our legs to hurt?

Alcohol and Edema

As our body gets dehydrated due to the diuretic effects of alcohol, it starts to send out SOS signals — “Help! We need to compensate for the lost liquid!” One way the body does this is by drawing water from our cells into our bloodstream to maintain blood pressure and keep vital organs working correctly. This is called fluid shift — the main cause of edema, or the collection of water in body tissues  — and swollen feet can be a sign that it’s happening.

The problem is, gravity isn’t selective. Fluid that is shifting downward due to gravity can pool in our feet and ankles, leading to swelling known as peripheral edema. In short, alcohol gets our fluids all confused, and they end up where they shouldn’t be: in our feet.

Swollen Feet and Heart Problems

While so far we have been focusing on foot swelling as a temporary discomfort caused mainly by dehydration, it’s crucial to keep in mind that swollen feet can be a sign of more serious health conditions, such as heart problems.

When the heart doesn't pump blood effectively, it can cause a condition called congestive heart failure. As the heart struggles, blood flow slows down, causing blood returning to the heart through the veins to back up.

This backup leads to an increase in pressure within the veins, pushing fluid out into the surrounding tissues, causing swelling, usually in the lower parts of the body like the legs, ankles, and feet. So if you have swollen feet and also experience symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, rapid weight gain, and a persistent cough, it's a good idea to reach out to a healthcare professional ASAP — these may be signs of heart problems requiring immediate attention.

Swollen Feet and Liver Damage

Another thing to keep in mind is that swollen feet caused by drinking can be an indicator of liver damage. The liver is a powerhouse organ — it detoxifies harmful substances in the body, stores vitamins and iron, converts stored sugar to functional sugar when the body's sugar levels fall, and even helps produce blood proteins that aid in clotting. What a multitasker!

When the liver gets damaged through excessive alcohol consumption — or anything else, for that matter — it can't perform its functions as effectively. One of its jobs is to produce a protein called albumin. Albumin helps keep fluid in your bloodstream so it doesn't leak into other tissues. But when the liver is damaged and albumin production drops, this fluid can escape into surrounding tissues, causing swelling, or edema.

This fluid can accumulate in various parts of the body, but — because of gravity — it often ends up in the feet and ankles, causing them to swell. This is one way that our feet might be trying to tell us that our liver needs some help.

Liver damage can also cause fluid to accumulate in the abdominal cavity in a condition called ascites. If we’re experiencing foot and ankle swelling along with weight gain and swelling in the abdomen, these could be signs of severe liver disease, like cirrhosis — definitely not something we’d want to ignore.

(Don’t) Leave Me Breathless

Another condition to be aware of is pulmonary edema, which happens when fluid accumulates in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. It can be caused by heart conditions such as congestive heart failure, which happens when the heart struggles to pump blood effectively.

In such a scenario, increased pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs causes fluid to be pushed into the air sacs. This fluid prevents the lungs from filling with enough air, leading to shortness of breath.

While pulmonary edema itself might not directly cause swollen feet, its root cause — congestive heart failure — often does. So, the presence of swollen feet alongside symptoms such as difficulty breathing, extreme fatigue, or a rapid or irregular heartbeat should trigger an immediate call to your healthcare provider.

When To Worry

The bottom line? While the occasional swelling of feet or leg pain after a night of a bit too much drinking can be chalked up to alcohol's effects on the body, such as dehydration, persistent or severe swelling should never be ignored. If you have swollen feet accompanied by other worrying symptoms, it’s absolutely crucial to seek medical attention promptly. The earlier potential health problems are detected, the better they can be managed.

How To Prevent Swollen Feet After Drinking

How To Get Rid of Swollen Feet After Drinking

The great news is you have the power to control the impact alcohol has on your body. Reducing or even eliminating alcohol from your lifestyle can improve your health in countless ways, including preventing our feet from swelling when we drink. Here are some specific steps you can take:

  • Swap out alcoholic drinks. Try swapping out your alcoholic beverage for a non-alcoholic option. There are plenty of fun mocktail recipes that can give you the sense of treating yourself without the negative side effects.
  • Hydrate. Drink more water. This can counteract the dehydrating effects of alcohol and reduce the fluid shift that leads to swelling.
  • Limit your alcohol intake. Try to have several alcohol-free days each week. This will give your body a chance to recover and could significantly improve your overall health.
  • Get moving. Exercise can help improve your circulation, reducing the chances of fluid accumulating in your feet and ankles.
  • Elevate your feet. When you’re lounging around at home, try elevating your feet. This simple trick can help prevent fluid from pooling in your lower extremities.

Water Retention Tips

Last but not least, if you’re wondering how long alcohol-related water retention lasts, the answer is 24 to 48 hours, max. Give it a day or two, and you'll likely be back to your fabulous, non-puffy self.

As for ways to get rid of water retention after drinking alcohol, try these tips:

  • Eat potassium-rich foods. Foods like bananas, spinach, and sweet potatoes can help balance out sodium levels, reducing bloating.
  • Limit salt. Salty foods can exacerbate water retention. Keep an eye on your intake the day after drinking.
  • Consider herbal teas. Some herbal teas like dandelion or green tea can act as natural diuretics, helping your body let go of that extra water.
  • Rest up. Adequate sleep helps in the recovery process and reduces stress, another potential bloat culprit.

Summing Up

In the end, those puffy feet might be a nuisance, but they’re also your body’s way of saying “hey, maybe ease up a little.” Let’s give them a break and keep them — and you! — happy and healthy!

Alcohol and Health
Popular