The link between porn and alcohol addiction are less discussed — adding to the dangers. Check out our latest blog to learn about the duo and what we can do about it.
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 today!
Imagine this: we’re kicking back after a long day with a glass (or two) of wine, scrolling through our phone. One click leads to another, and before we know it, we’ve ventured into the realm of adult entertainment. While this scenario may sound harmless at first, it can be the start of an intertwined dependency — leading to long-term consequences.
These two seemingly different habits both offer a fleeting sense of pleasure and escape from reality that can impact our lives in unexpected ways. By understanding the complexities of porn addiction and alcohol abuse, we can better navigate the path to recovery. So, grab a drink (non-alcoholic), and join us as we explore the surprising and often hidden connection and consequences of these habits.
Porn addiction is the impaired ability to stop watching pornography, which may interfere with daily life activities and relationships. Although it’s not acknowledged in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V), porn addiction is recognized by the World Health Organization as a part of Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD).
Like other addictive substances such as alcohol and drugs, watching porn can trigger the release of dopamine in our brain. Dopamine is the neurotransmitter or chemical messenger that is responsible for feelings of pleasure, satisfaction, and motivation. Excessive viewing of porn can lead to decreased natural dopamine production — leading us to seek more dopamine externally. Like with alcohol consumption, not all of us who watch porn will become dependent. Factors such as mental health conditions, biological factors, and environmental influences can add to the risk of developing dependence.
When porn dependence manifests, it can be identified through various signs and symptoms:
With a clearer understanding of the signs of porn addiction, it’s also important to recognize the prevalence and impact of this issue.
The detrimental impact of porn addiction spans all facets of our life, including mental health, relationships, social life, and professional functioning. Let’s examine just how widespread the issue is through these staggering statistics:
Similarly, the extensive impact of porn addiction is outlined in the following findings in this 2023 narrative review:
Porn addiction itself is harmful to our overall health and well-being. When we add alcohol consumption into the equation, things get even more complicated. Let’s take a deeper dive into the relationship between the two.
Although two seemingly different habits, porn and alcohol consumption are often intertwined — increasing the risk of addiction. Let’s take a deeper dive into why they often co-occur.
The common threads connecting porn and alcohol consumption frequently intersect, which leads to addictive behaviors. Some vulnerabilities include the following:
Now that we’ve identified the shared risk factors between alcohol and porn addiction, let’s investigate the mechanisms that facilitate their co-occurrence.
In addition to shared risk factors, the intersection of these vulnerabilities, which lead to co-occurrence, overlap in many ways:
By delving into how alcohol and porn addiction interrelate and reinforce each other, we can better understand why co-occurrence can be so detrimental.
The intersection of porn and alcohol addiction can exacerbate their detrimental effects, resulting in a complex web of consequences that affect mental, physical, and social health.
As we can see, porn and alcohol addiction alone are harmful to our overall well-being, but when intertwined, they can be even more detrimental. How can we break free from the cycle of dual addiction?
Simultaneous dependencies are difficult to manage. However, there are many treatment options that can help us address both issues.
While there are options for independent and co-occurring treatment models, taking the step to recovery and maintaining the path can be challenging at times. Recognizing these challenges sets us up to overcome them.
Porn and alcohol addiction alone are often stigmatized and associated with feelings of shame. When combined, these feelings can be even further exacerbated. This can negatively impact our willingness to seek treatment — highlighting the importance of overcoming societal and personal stigma in order to better address these issues.
Another common challenge in recovery is the prevalence of relapse. Relapses are difficult as they often make us feel like we’ve failed when actually they are often part of the recovery process due to the chronic nature of addiction. Developing strategies for preventing and overcoming relapse can help us stay on track.
Even when we’re ready to start the road to recovery, accessing treatment for the co-occurrence of alcohol and porn addiction can be challenging. Although specialized treatment programs are available, they aren’t prevalent. Financial barriers and insurance coverage can be obstacles to accessing the care we need. Although navigating alcohol and porn addiction can be difficult, we don’t have to do it alone. Let’s see how we can better support those with porn addiction.
Supporting someone who may not realize they have a porn addiction or are in denial about the problem can be challenging but not impossible. As we’ve learned, porn addiction is commonly surrounded by feelings of shame and guilt, making it difficult to admit we have a problem. However, we can take intentional actions to motivate loved ones to embark on a path to healthier consumption.
These steps can be used for supporting someone with a porn or alcohol addiction. However, they’re commonly co-occurring. What additional considerations should we keep in mind when supporting a loved one with co-occurring dependencies?
Navigating co-occurring addictions can be extra challenging due to increased stigma and additional barriers. Approaching the situation with empathy and understanding is key when supporting a loved one. Here are some practices we can implement.
Porn and alcohol addiction not only affects those who are struggling with dependence, but those around them as well. We can take steps to prevent or treat alcohol and porn addiction as we embark on a healthier and happier life for ourselves and our loved ones!
Struggling with alcohol and porn addiction can be lonely and isolating, but it’s actually more common than we think. Both alcohol and porn act on similar mechanisms in our brain and fuel the dependence of one another. Although breaking free from the cycle of this double trouble can be challenging, it’s entirely possible! By understanding the shared risk factors and mechanisms behind these co-occurring addictions, we can take the necessary steps to regain control and lead healthier, happier lives. Cheers to making positive changes and embracing a life full of real, lasting pleasures!
Imagine this: we’re kicking back after a long day with a glass (or two) of wine, scrolling through our phone. One click leads to another, and before we know it, we’ve ventured into the realm of adult entertainment. While this scenario may sound harmless at first, it can be the start of an intertwined dependency — leading to long-term consequences.
These two seemingly different habits both offer a fleeting sense of pleasure and escape from reality that can impact our lives in unexpected ways. By understanding the complexities of porn addiction and alcohol abuse, we can better navigate the path to recovery. So, grab a drink (non-alcoholic), and join us as we explore the surprising and often hidden connection and consequences of these habits.
Porn addiction is the impaired ability to stop watching pornography, which may interfere with daily life activities and relationships. Although it’s not acknowledged in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V), porn addiction is recognized by the World Health Organization as a part of Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD).
Like other addictive substances such as alcohol and drugs, watching porn can trigger the release of dopamine in our brain. Dopamine is the neurotransmitter or chemical messenger that is responsible for feelings of pleasure, satisfaction, and motivation. Excessive viewing of porn can lead to decreased natural dopamine production — leading us to seek more dopamine externally. Like with alcohol consumption, not all of us who watch porn will become dependent. Factors such as mental health conditions, biological factors, and environmental influences can add to the risk of developing dependence.
When porn dependence manifests, it can be identified through various signs and symptoms:
With a clearer understanding of the signs of porn addiction, it’s also important to recognize the prevalence and impact of this issue.
The detrimental impact of porn addiction spans all facets of our life, including mental health, relationships, social life, and professional functioning. Let’s examine just how widespread the issue is through these staggering statistics:
Similarly, the extensive impact of porn addiction is outlined in the following findings in this 2023 narrative review:
Porn addiction itself is harmful to our overall health and well-being. When we add alcohol consumption into the equation, things get even more complicated. Let’s take a deeper dive into the relationship between the two.
Although two seemingly different habits, porn and alcohol consumption are often intertwined — increasing the risk of addiction. Let’s take a deeper dive into why they often co-occur.
The common threads connecting porn and alcohol consumption frequently intersect, which leads to addictive behaviors. Some vulnerabilities include the following:
Now that we’ve identified the shared risk factors between alcohol and porn addiction, let’s investigate the mechanisms that facilitate their co-occurrence.
In addition to shared risk factors, the intersection of these vulnerabilities, which lead to co-occurrence, overlap in many ways:
By delving into how alcohol and porn addiction interrelate and reinforce each other, we can better understand why co-occurrence can be so detrimental.
The intersection of porn and alcohol addiction can exacerbate their detrimental effects, resulting in a complex web of consequences that affect mental, physical, and social health.
As we can see, porn and alcohol addiction alone are harmful to our overall well-being, but when intertwined, they can be even more detrimental. How can we break free from the cycle of dual addiction?
Simultaneous dependencies are difficult to manage. However, there are many treatment options that can help us address both issues.
While there are options for independent and co-occurring treatment models, taking the step to recovery and maintaining the path can be challenging at times. Recognizing these challenges sets us up to overcome them.
Porn and alcohol addiction alone are often stigmatized and associated with feelings of shame. When combined, these feelings can be even further exacerbated. This can negatively impact our willingness to seek treatment — highlighting the importance of overcoming societal and personal stigma in order to better address these issues.
Another common challenge in recovery is the prevalence of relapse. Relapses are difficult as they often make us feel like we’ve failed when actually they are often part of the recovery process due to the chronic nature of addiction. Developing strategies for preventing and overcoming relapse can help us stay on track.
Even when we’re ready to start the road to recovery, accessing treatment for the co-occurrence of alcohol and porn addiction can be challenging. Although specialized treatment programs are available, they aren’t prevalent. Financial barriers and insurance coverage can be obstacles to accessing the care we need. Although navigating alcohol and porn addiction can be difficult, we don’t have to do it alone. Let’s see how we can better support those with porn addiction.
Supporting someone who may not realize they have a porn addiction or are in denial about the problem can be challenging but not impossible. As we’ve learned, porn addiction is commonly surrounded by feelings of shame and guilt, making it difficult to admit we have a problem. However, we can take intentional actions to motivate loved ones to embark on a path to healthier consumption.
These steps can be used for supporting someone with a porn or alcohol addiction. However, they’re commonly co-occurring. What additional considerations should we keep in mind when supporting a loved one with co-occurring dependencies?
Navigating co-occurring addictions can be extra challenging due to increased stigma and additional barriers. Approaching the situation with empathy and understanding is key when supporting a loved one. Here are some practices we can implement.
Porn and alcohol addiction not only affects those who are struggling with dependence, but those around them as well. We can take steps to prevent or treat alcohol and porn addiction as we embark on a healthier and happier life for ourselves and our loved ones!
Struggling with alcohol and porn addiction can be lonely and isolating, but it’s actually more common than we think. Both alcohol and porn act on similar mechanisms in our brain and fuel the dependence of one another. Although breaking free from the cycle of this double trouble can be challenging, it’s entirely possible! By understanding the shared risk factors and mechanisms behind these co-occurring addictions, we can take the necessary steps to regain control and lead healthier, happier lives. Cheers to making positive changes and embracing a life full of real, lasting pleasures!
Is your city one of the “drunkest” cities in America? Find out the top 10 and see if your city made the list.
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!
Think about what defines your city. Is it the skyline? The sports team? The special way of making pizza, barbecue, or chili? America is often called a “melting pot,” a place where cultures from all over the world blend together to form a collective national identity. The amalgam of global culture in America is a point of pride for many residents, almost as much as the unique quirks of their local culture.
Each region, city, town, and neighborhood in the country has its own flavor, its own identity, whether that’s a regional cuisine, a particular sports team, rich traditions, or a vibrant nightlife. Today, let’s take a look at America’s cities through the lens of drinking culture and determine which cities have the highest rates of excessive drinking.
Before we look at which cities love their booze the most, it’s important to define “excessive drinking” and social drinking expectations. These concepts inform a city’s drinking culture and explain why certain areas tend to hit the bottle harder.
Excessive drinking describes a pattern of alcohol consumption that significantly increases the risk of alcohol-related illness. All alcohol carries some risk, but public health officials often refer to specific guidelines for balancing risk with enjoyment.
In general, experts recommend sticking to fewer than 2 drinks per day for men and 1 drink per day for women. But wait, how is it possible to drink fewer than a drink per day? The idea is that we should not be drinking every day. This may come as a surprise to those of us who like to wind down with a daily glass of wine, but it’s good advice for avoiding some of the most risky consequences of alcohol dependence.
Excessive drinking is primarily associated with two types of drinking behaviors: binge drinking and heavy drinking.
A regional pattern of excessive drinking is often a part of an area’s cultural identity. Many cities pride themselves on local specialties or boozy celebrations after local sports teams win a big game.
There are also influences from social pressure and groupthink, which create a feedback loop that perpetuates and expands local drinking culture — with serious consequences for public health.
Many cities and metro areas implement public safety programs with the aim of reducing the impact of high alcohol consumption. These programs include public awareness campaigns, policy interventions such as alcohol taxes and legal drinking age enforcement, and promotion of responsible drinking behaviors.
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) regularly collects data on drinking in the United States. In a 2022 survey by the NIAAA, excessive drinking among American adults is incredibly common:
These numbers have been on the rise, increasing by 12% from 2011 to 2017. According to the 2020 Census, 80% of the American population lives in urban areas. To understand America's drinking habits, let’s look at some of the cities that consume the most alcohol.
With all that out of the way, let’s get down to business.
Excessive drinking rate: 21.4%
Austin is known for being the “Live Music Capital of the World.” It’s home to several major festivals, including the South by Southwest arts festival, where movies, music, food, and drinking take center stage. Austinites are fiercely loyal to the Texas tradition of pairing barbeque with a cold brew, and the city is home to more than 20 craft breweries.
Excessive drinking rate: 21.4%
Portland is known for its slogan “Keep Portland Weird,” and residents certainly take pride in living up to it. Portlanders’ progressive social attitudes have destigmatized the use of drugs and alcohol, leading to wider social acceptance of personal choices to drink. Oregon is known as an ideal region for making wines like pinot grigio, pinot gris, and pinot noir, and many Oregon vineyards operate tasting rooms in Portland, the largest city in Oregon.
Excessive drinking rate: 21.6%
Home to dozens of craft breweries and close to one of the world’s top-producing wine-growing regions, Sacramento takes the prize for the drunkest city in California, beating out Los Angeles — a city 7 times its size. Californians consume more alcohol than any other state in America, with 85.7 million gallons consumed in 2020 (although this is probably because it is by far the most populous state in America). Excessive drinking during the COVID-19 pandemic increased deaths from alcoholic liver disease so dramatically that the condition killed more Californians than car accidents or breast cancer in 2020.
Excessive drinking rate: 21.9%
New Orleans is well-known as a party city, hosting several alcohol-oriented festivals every year. About 1.5 million people attend New Orleans’ world-famous Mardi Gras celebrations each year, and revelers drink an average of 4.5 beverages per person. New Orleans is also home to specialty cocktails synonymous with the city, such as the Sazerac, and unique drinking experiences like drive-through daiquiri shops.
Excessive drinking rate: 22.5%
Pittsburgh’s drinking culture stems from its working-class roots; Pittsburgh has a rich history tied to the steel and manufacturing industries, where drinking after long shifts was a common way for workers to unwind and socialize. Pittsburgh is also home to major sports teams with intensely devoted fans. Sports culture often goes hand-in-hand with alcohol consumption, especially during game days, both in stadiums and at local bars.
Excessive drinking rate: 22.7%
The notorious drinking habits of the Windy City date back to the Prohibition Era, when it was a hub for bootleggers trafficking illegal alcohol. With a heavy roster of professional sports teams, including two major-league baseball teams, sports fans make up the bulk of excessive drinkers. Chicago is also known for its regional specialty spirit, Malört, and a huge variety of craft beers.
Excessive drinking rate: 22.8%
Buffalo is located in Upstate New York on the Canadian border. The harsh northern winters drive people indoors to socialize, and alcohol is often the center of attention. In many areas of the U.S., bars are a so-called “third place,” a location where people can socialize outside of work and home. During the summer, there are more opportunities to hang out outdoors, but options are more limited in the winter. Public events often center around wine to celebrate Upstate New York’s many respected wineries.
Excessive drinking rate: 23.1%
Boston has deep roots in Irish heritage stemming from the many waves of Irish immigration in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Many Irish holidays and celebrations center around alcohol. For example, St. Patrick’s Day, a worldwide celebration of Irish culture, is huge in Beantown: city officials estimate that St. Patrick’s Day celebrations bring in around $6.85 billion to the city’s businesses each year. Boston is also home to avid sports fans and several Ivy League colleges with long-standing drinking traditions.
Excessive drinking rate: 23.5%
Drinking picks up during wintertime in Minneapolis for the same reason it does in Buffalo. Bars are a center of socialization when residents are seeking to escape the frigid temperatures. The Midwest is known for its drinking culture, owing in part to the cultural influences of German, Irish, and Scandinavian immigrants who settled there. In the Midwest’s many rural towns, bars are one of the few places to socialize outside of the home. Minneapolis is also home to a vibrant live music scene, and alcohol is often prominently featured at music venues.
Excessive drinking rate: 24.6%
Taking the top spot is Milwaukee, the largest city in the state that consumes the most alcohol. Drinking culture runs deep in Milwaukee, which is home to two of the biggest breweries in the country. Wisconsin also has one of the lowest alcohol tax rates in the nation, resulting in lower retail and wholesale prices of alcoholic beverages. Many of the “drunkest” counties and towns in America are in Wisconsin, and the state has 7 of the 10 U.S. cities with the highest alcohol consumption per capita. Milwaukee, with its sprawling beer gardens, is usually the city that drinks the most year after year.
If you live in one of these cities, you may be well aware of its active drinking culture. Luckily, there are ways to overcome peer pressure and develop healthier drinking habits.
Whether we’re looking to be a good influence or simply improve our personal health, cutting back on drinking is a great way to avoid negative effects on our finances, health, and emotional well-being. Let’s take a look at a few ways to manage our alcohol intake.
By following these tips, we can overcome drinking culture and make the best decisions for our health goals!
When we are surrounded by alcohol or our cultural identity is tied up with alcohol consumption, it takes strength and fortitude to make changes to our drinking habits. Wherever we live, we can rest assured that there is a thriving sober community united in solidarity against the local drinking culture. Whatever our relationship with alcohol, know that we have the biggest say in how much we drink. Now let’s go out there and make good decisions!
Think about what defines your city. Is it the skyline? The sports team? The special way of making pizza, barbecue, or chili? America is often called a “melting pot,” a place where cultures from all over the world blend together to form a collective national identity. The amalgam of global culture in America is a point of pride for many residents, almost as much as the unique quirks of their local culture.
Each region, city, town, and neighborhood in the country has its own flavor, its own identity, whether that’s a regional cuisine, a particular sports team, rich traditions, or a vibrant nightlife. Today, let’s take a look at America’s cities through the lens of drinking culture and determine which cities have the highest rates of excessive drinking.
Before we look at which cities love their booze the most, it’s important to define “excessive drinking” and social drinking expectations. These concepts inform a city’s drinking culture and explain why certain areas tend to hit the bottle harder.
Excessive drinking describes a pattern of alcohol consumption that significantly increases the risk of alcohol-related illness. All alcohol carries some risk, but public health officials often refer to specific guidelines for balancing risk with enjoyment.
In general, experts recommend sticking to fewer than 2 drinks per day for men and 1 drink per day for women. But wait, how is it possible to drink fewer than a drink per day? The idea is that we should not be drinking every day. This may come as a surprise to those of us who like to wind down with a daily glass of wine, but it’s good advice for avoiding some of the most risky consequences of alcohol dependence.
Excessive drinking is primarily associated with two types of drinking behaviors: binge drinking and heavy drinking.
A regional pattern of excessive drinking is often a part of an area’s cultural identity. Many cities pride themselves on local specialties or boozy celebrations after local sports teams win a big game.
There are also influences from social pressure and groupthink, which create a feedback loop that perpetuates and expands local drinking culture — with serious consequences for public health.
Many cities and metro areas implement public safety programs with the aim of reducing the impact of high alcohol consumption. These programs include public awareness campaigns, policy interventions such as alcohol taxes and legal drinking age enforcement, and promotion of responsible drinking behaviors.
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) regularly collects data on drinking in the United States. In a 2022 survey by the NIAAA, excessive drinking among American adults is incredibly common:
These numbers have been on the rise, increasing by 12% from 2011 to 2017. According to the 2020 Census, 80% of the American population lives in urban areas. To understand America's drinking habits, let’s look at some of the cities that consume the most alcohol.
With all that out of the way, let’s get down to business.
Excessive drinking rate: 21.4%
Austin is known for being the “Live Music Capital of the World.” It’s home to several major festivals, including the South by Southwest arts festival, where movies, music, food, and drinking take center stage. Austinites are fiercely loyal to the Texas tradition of pairing barbeque with a cold brew, and the city is home to more than 20 craft breweries.
Excessive drinking rate: 21.4%
Portland is known for its slogan “Keep Portland Weird,” and residents certainly take pride in living up to it. Portlanders’ progressive social attitudes have destigmatized the use of drugs and alcohol, leading to wider social acceptance of personal choices to drink. Oregon is known as an ideal region for making wines like pinot grigio, pinot gris, and pinot noir, and many Oregon vineyards operate tasting rooms in Portland, the largest city in Oregon.
Excessive drinking rate: 21.6%
Home to dozens of craft breweries and close to one of the world’s top-producing wine-growing regions, Sacramento takes the prize for the drunkest city in California, beating out Los Angeles — a city 7 times its size. Californians consume more alcohol than any other state in America, with 85.7 million gallons consumed in 2020 (although this is probably because it is by far the most populous state in America). Excessive drinking during the COVID-19 pandemic increased deaths from alcoholic liver disease so dramatically that the condition killed more Californians than car accidents or breast cancer in 2020.
Excessive drinking rate: 21.9%
New Orleans is well-known as a party city, hosting several alcohol-oriented festivals every year. About 1.5 million people attend New Orleans’ world-famous Mardi Gras celebrations each year, and revelers drink an average of 4.5 beverages per person. New Orleans is also home to specialty cocktails synonymous with the city, such as the Sazerac, and unique drinking experiences like drive-through daiquiri shops.
Excessive drinking rate: 22.5%
Pittsburgh’s drinking culture stems from its working-class roots; Pittsburgh has a rich history tied to the steel and manufacturing industries, where drinking after long shifts was a common way for workers to unwind and socialize. Pittsburgh is also home to major sports teams with intensely devoted fans. Sports culture often goes hand-in-hand with alcohol consumption, especially during game days, both in stadiums and at local bars.
Excessive drinking rate: 22.7%
The notorious drinking habits of the Windy City date back to the Prohibition Era, when it was a hub for bootleggers trafficking illegal alcohol. With a heavy roster of professional sports teams, including two major-league baseball teams, sports fans make up the bulk of excessive drinkers. Chicago is also known for its regional specialty spirit, Malört, and a huge variety of craft beers.
Excessive drinking rate: 22.8%
Buffalo is located in Upstate New York on the Canadian border. The harsh northern winters drive people indoors to socialize, and alcohol is often the center of attention. In many areas of the U.S., bars are a so-called “third place,” a location where people can socialize outside of work and home. During the summer, there are more opportunities to hang out outdoors, but options are more limited in the winter. Public events often center around wine to celebrate Upstate New York’s many respected wineries.
Excessive drinking rate: 23.1%
Boston has deep roots in Irish heritage stemming from the many waves of Irish immigration in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Many Irish holidays and celebrations center around alcohol. For example, St. Patrick’s Day, a worldwide celebration of Irish culture, is huge in Beantown: city officials estimate that St. Patrick’s Day celebrations bring in around $6.85 billion to the city’s businesses each year. Boston is also home to avid sports fans and several Ivy League colleges with long-standing drinking traditions.
Excessive drinking rate: 23.5%
Drinking picks up during wintertime in Minneapolis for the same reason it does in Buffalo. Bars are a center of socialization when residents are seeking to escape the frigid temperatures. The Midwest is known for its drinking culture, owing in part to the cultural influences of German, Irish, and Scandinavian immigrants who settled there. In the Midwest’s many rural towns, bars are one of the few places to socialize outside of the home. Minneapolis is also home to a vibrant live music scene, and alcohol is often prominently featured at music venues.
Excessive drinking rate: 24.6%
Taking the top spot is Milwaukee, the largest city in the state that consumes the most alcohol. Drinking culture runs deep in Milwaukee, which is home to two of the biggest breweries in the country. Wisconsin also has one of the lowest alcohol tax rates in the nation, resulting in lower retail and wholesale prices of alcoholic beverages. Many of the “drunkest” counties and towns in America are in Wisconsin, and the state has 7 of the 10 U.S. cities with the highest alcohol consumption per capita. Milwaukee, with its sprawling beer gardens, is usually the city that drinks the most year after year.
If you live in one of these cities, you may be well aware of its active drinking culture. Luckily, there are ways to overcome peer pressure and develop healthier drinking habits.
Whether we’re looking to be a good influence or simply improve our personal health, cutting back on drinking is a great way to avoid negative effects on our finances, health, and emotional well-being. Let’s take a look at a few ways to manage our alcohol intake.
By following these tips, we can overcome drinking culture and make the best decisions for our health goals!
When we are surrounded by alcohol or our cultural identity is tied up with alcohol consumption, it takes strength and fortitude to make changes to our drinking habits. Wherever we live, we can rest assured that there is a thriving sober community united in solidarity against the local drinking culture. Whatever our relationship with alcohol, know that we have the biggest say in how much we drink. Now let’s go out there and make good decisions!
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.
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!
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.
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.
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:
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.
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?
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.
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:
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.
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.
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:
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?
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?
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.
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:
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.
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.
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:
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.
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?
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.
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:
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.
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.
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:
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?
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?
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.
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:
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!
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.
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!
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.
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.
Organic cane alcohol is used in a variety of different industries aside from alcoholic beverage companies. Some of its other uses include the following:
Cane alcohol is versatile, not just in its applications within different industries but also in the types of alcoholic beverages it can create.
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?
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.
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:
While sugar cane alcohol has some benefits over grain alcohol, consuming cane alcohol is still associated with many risks.
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:
Due to the way sugar cane alcohol is presented, it also comes with its own risk factors.
Let’s clear up some of the confusion surrounding organic cane alcohol so we can make well-informed decisions about drinking.
Cane alcohol, specifically organic cane alcohol, is associated with many common misconceptions, such as:
After we understand exactly what cane alcohol is we are able to consume more mindfully and safely.
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:
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.
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.
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.
Organic cane alcohol is used in a variety of different industries aside from alcoholic beverage companies. Some of its other uses include the following:
Cane alcohol is versatile, not just in its applications within different industries but also in the types of alcoholic beverages it can create.
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?
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.
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:
While sugar cane alcohol has some benefits over grain alcohol, consuming cane alcohol is still associated with many risks.
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:
Due to the way sugar cane alcohol is presented, it also comes with its own risk factors.
Let’s clear up some of the confusion surrounding organic cane alcohol so we can make well-informed decisions about drinking.
Cane alcohol, specifically organic cane alcohol, is associated with many common misconceptions, such as:
After we understand exactly what cane alcohol is we are able to consume more mindfully and safely.
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:
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.
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!
Can you drink on Dramamine, or is it too risky? Read about the possible dangers of this combination in our latest blog.
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!
Nobody likes to feel nauseous. It’s that indescribable feeling — not quite “pain” but somehow just as bad. And often there seems to be no escape from it. Philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre dedicated a whole novel — Nausea — to the pervasive sensation. He writes, “The nausea has not left me and I don't believe it will leave me so soon; but I no longer have to bear it, it is no longer an illness or a passing fit: it is I.”
So if you tend to get nauseous — on planes, buses, that spinning teacup ride at Disney World — you probably have your travel kit stocked with over-the-counter nausea aids (if only they were around when Sartre’s protagonist was grappling with his affliction!).
But wait a second, is it okay to pop a Dramamine before knocking back a glass of wine on the plane or have a beer after you get off that bumpy bus ride? What are the dangers of mixing Dramamine and alcohol — can you drink on Dramamine at all? And what about using Dramamine for hangover-related nausea? Let’s find out more!
Unfortunately, motion sickness is a part of life for many of us. It can show up during our daily commute to work, in the back seat of an Uber, and even on vacation trips. As scientist Natasha Tuznik tells UC Davis Health, “A study conducted in 2019 found that almost everyone has experienced or will experience motion sickness at some point in their lifetime.”
This “sickness” goes way back — in fact, the word comes from the Greek naus, meaning “ship.” These days, of course, there are many other modes of transportation that seem to conspire to ruin our transit experience.
In a study published in Ergonomics, as many as 28.4% of people surveyed reported feeling ill during a total of 110 hours of test drives that included 5 types of vehicles and 17 different drivers. Moreover, 12.8% reported experiencing nausea, while 1.7% brave participants admitted to “losing their lunch” during the experiment!
Riding in cars is part of modern life. Thankfully, so is modern science! Enter: Dramamine.
Dramamine (Dimenhydrinate) is an antihistamine used to kick the most unpleasant symptoms of motion sickness (such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness) right to the curb. In fact, it can even prevent them from starting in the first place!
Know Dramamine by another name? That’s quite possible. According to ScienceDirect, this trusty travel companion has many aliases:
Phew! That’s quite a list. Whichever alias you know it by, they all work the same way — and the mechanism is pretty clever!
Dramamine helps our body maintain a sense of balance during those bumpy bus rides and turbulent takeovers. It works by blocking certain signals in the brain that trigger these uncomfortable symptoms, providing much-needed relief during travel. While taking a pill when symptoms kick in is an option (it’s never too late!), many travelers opt for taking the precaution of popping one an hour or so before even getting on the bus (or plane, or car).
As for dosage, the standard for adults is 50-100 mg every 4-6 hours, with 400 mg per day being the limit.
While Dramamine is all about reducing the unpleasant “side effects” of travel, it comes with a bit of baggage of its own. The common side effects are usually pretty mild:
So what happens when we add alcohol to the mix? There are a couple of reasons why the two are not great “travel companions”:
Dramamine can make us drowsy on its own, but with alcohol in the picture, the effect gets much more pronounced — sometimes to a dangerous degree. As a depressant, alcohol numbs our senses and slows cognitive processing while impairing our motor skills.
The reason has to do with the way it affects our brain chemistry. Alcohol tends to increase the activity of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter that slows down the nervous system, while simultaneously toning down the effects of glutamate, its “excitatory” counterpart. The result? Our reflexes take a hit, our cognitive abilities are dulled, and we feel drowsy.
The booze-dramamine combo can dangerously enhance impairment, raising the risk of accidents and injuries, especially in activities requiring alertness, such as driving. However, even if we’re not behind the wheel, the extra grogginess can get in the way. (After all, nobody wants to miss their connecting flight!) And if we end up having several drinks, we could get into dangerous waters by slowing down our central nervous system so much that it becomes a health risk.
Alcohol is notorious for leaving us parched and depleted of electrolytes, and adding Dramamine to the mix can make things worse. This dehydrating duo will leave you twice as thirsty — especially after a long plane ride!
Mixing alcohol and Dramamine can also worsen other side effects, such as dry mouth, blurred vision, and dizziness. If we’re already feeling drowsy, this could really spell trouble, especially for those of us who are a bit older.
You might be wondering, “How long after taking Dramamine can I drink alcohol?” The effects of the medication can last from 4 to 6 hours, and it takes about 1 to 3 hours for its peak effects to show up. Given its half-life, it's best to wait at least 24 hours after taking Dramamine before drinking so your body can fully process the medication. Waiting an extra few hours might reduce the risk of adverse interactions even more.
Is one drink okay to have with Dramamine? Not really. Even one drink can significantly increase the side effects and amp up the risks, so it's best to skip booze entirely until the medication has cleared from your system.
Given that nausea is a common hangover symptom, it seems that it would make sense to reach for a Dramamine pill for relief.
But is it a good idea? Not so much.
It’s true that Dramamine can potentially alleviate some symptoms of a hangover, such as nausea and a sense of balance disruption. However, Dramamine’s sedative effects can add to the grogginess and cognitive fuzziness often experienced during a hangover.
Moreover, taking Dramamine to combat hangover symptoms can be risky if alcohol is still present in the system. The combination can lead to increased drowsiness, dehydration, and further impairment of judgment and motor skills.
Moreover, it’s also worth noting that while Dramamine tends to be safe for many people when it comes to potential misuse, for some it’s been known to be habit-forming (sometimes very much so — we’re talking large daily doses). If we have a history of substance misuse, it’s important to be careful and mindful about our Dramamine intake.
Finally, many of us might have noticed that Dramamine has a travel partner that usually shares the same shelf in the drug store — Bonine. Is this a better choice to take along for the ride if we know we might drink?
Bonine (meclizine) is also marketed as a motion sickness aid but one that claims to work all day — as opposed to Dramamine’s 4- to 6-hour window. Unfortunately for those who might have been hoping Bonine could work as a booze-friendly alternative to Dramamine, this isn’t the case. Bonine shares the same risk of central nervous system suppression — along with increased dehydration and intensified side effects.
To ensure safety, it’s best to avoid alcohol when taking any motion sickness medication.
Ready for some tips on how to relieve nausea and hangovers more effectively (and maybe prevent them altogether)? Here we go!
If you’re finding that alcohol is taking up a bit too much air time in your life in general — whether or not Dramamine is part of the picture — here are some additional tips for the journey.
Nausea is, unfortunately, a part of life, and it’s great that Dramamine is here to help. But the not-so-helpful interactions between this medication and alcohol don’t have to be part of your journey. Happy booze-free, hangover-free travels!
Nobody likes to feel nauseous. It’s that indescribable feeling — not quite “pain” but somehow just as bad. And often there seems to be no escape from it. Philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre dedicated a whole novel — Nausea — to the pervasive sensation. He writes, “The nausea has not left me and I don't believe it will leave me so soon; but I no longer have to bear it, it is no longer an illness or a passing fit: it is I.”
So if you tend to get nauseous — on planes, buses, that spinning teacup ride at Disney World — you probably have your travel kit stocked with over-the-counter nausea aids (if only they were around when Sartre’s protagonist was grappling with his affliction!).
But wait a second, is it okay to pop a Dramamine before knocking back a glass of wine on the plane or have a beer after you get off that bumpy bus ride? What are the dangers of mixing Dramamine and alcohol — can you drink on Dramamine at all? And what about using Dramamine for hangover-related nausea? Let’s find out more!
Unfortunately, motion sickness is a part of life for many of us. It can show up during our daily commute to work, in the back seat of an Uber, and even on vacation trips. As scientist Natasha Tuznik tells UC Davis Health, “A study conducted in 2019 found that almost everyone has experienced or will experience motion sickness at some point in their lifetime.”
This “sickness” goes way back — in fact, the word comes from the Greek naus, meaning “ship.” These days, of course, there are many other modes of transportation that seem to conspire to ruin our transit experience.
In a study published in Ergonomics, as many as 28.4% of people surveyed reported feeling ill during a total of 110 hours of test drives that included 5 types of vehicles and 17 different drivers. Moreover, 12.8% reported experiencing nausea, while 1.7% brave participants admitted to “losing their lunch” during the experiment!
Riding in cars is part of modern life. Thankfully, so is modern science! Enter: Dramamine.
Dramamine (Dimenhydrinate) is an antihistamine used to kick the most unpleasant symptoms of motion sickness (such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness) right to the curb. In fact, it can even prevent them from starting in the first place!
Know Dramamine by another name? That’s quite possible. According to ScienceDirect, this trusty travel companion has many aliases:
Phew! That’s quite a list. Whichever alias you know it by, they all work the same way — and the mechanism is pretty clever!
Dramamine helps our body maintain a sense of balance during those bumpy bus rides and turbulent takeovers. It works by blocking certain signals in the brain that trigger these uncomfortable symptoms, providing much-needed relief during travel. While taking a pill when symptoms kick in is an option (it’s never too late!), many travelers opt for taking the precaution of popping one an hour or so before even getting on the bus (or plane, or car).
As for dosage, the standard for adults is 50-100 mg every 4-6 hours, with 400 mg per day being the limit.
While Dramamine is all about reducing the unpleasant “side effects” of travel, it comes with a bit of baggage of its own. The common side effects are usually pretty mild:
So what happens when we add alcohol to the mix? There are a couple of reasons why the two are not great “travel companions”:
Dramamine can make us drowsy on its own, but with alcohol in the picture, the effect gets much more pronounced — sometimes to a dangerous degree. As a depressant, alcohol numbs our senses and slows cognitive processing while impairing our motor skills.
The reason has to do with the way it affects our brain chemistry. Alcohol tends to increase the activity of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter that slows down the nervous system, while simultaneously toning down the effects of glutamate, its “excitatory” counterpart. The result? Our reflexes take a hit, our cognitive abilities are dulled, and we feel drowsy.
The booze-dramamine combo can dangerously enhance impairment, raising the risk of accidents and injuries, especially in activities requiring alertness, such as driving. However, even if we’re not behind the wheel, the extra grogginess can get in the way. (After all, nobody wants to miss their connecting flight!) And if we end up having several drinks, we could get into dangerous waters by slowing down our central nervous system so much that it becomes a health risk.
Alcohol is notorious for leaving us parched and depleted of electrolytes, and adding Dramamine to the mix can make things worse. This dehydrating duo will leave you twice as thirsty — especially after a long plane ride!
Mixing alcohol and Dramamine can also worsen other side effects, such as dry mouth, blurred vision, and dizziness. If we’re already feeling drowsy, this could really spell trouble, especially for those of us who are a bit older.
You might be wondering, “How long after taking Dramamine can I drink alcohol?” The effects of the medication can last from 4 to 6 hours, and it takes about 1 to 3 hours for its peak effects to show up. Given its half-life, it's best to wait at least 24 hours after taking Dramamine before drinking so your body can fully process the medication. Waiting an extra few hours might reduce the risk of adverse interactions even more.
Is one drink okay to have with Dramamine? Not really. Even one drink can significantly increase the side effects and amp up the risks, so it's best to skip booze entirely until the medication has cleared from your system.
Given that nausea is a common hangover symptom, it seems that it would make sense to reach for a Dramamine pill for relief.
But is it a good idea? Not so much.
It’s true that Dramamine can potentially alleviate some symptoms of a hangover, such as nausea and a sense of balance disruption. However, Dramamine’s sedative effects can add to the grogginess and cognitive fuzziness often experienced during a hangover.
Moreover, taking Dramamine to combat hangover symptoms can be risky if alcohol is still present in the system. The combination can lead to increased drowsiness, dehydration, and further impairment of judgment and motor skills.
Moreover, it’s also worth noting that while Dramamine tends to be safe for many people when it comes to potential misuse, for some it’s been known to be habit-forming (sometimes very much so — we’re talking large daily doses). If we have a history of substance misuse, it’s important to be careful and mindful about our Dramamine intake.
Finally, many of us might have noticed that Dramamine has a travel partner that usually shares the same shelf in the drug store — Bonine. Is this a better choice to take along for the ride if we know we might drink?
Bonine (meclizine) is also marketed as a motion sickness aid but one that claims to work all day — as opposed to Dramamine’s 4- to 6-hour window. Unfortunately for those who might have been hoping Bonine could work as a booze-friendly alternative to Dramamine, this isn’t the case. Bonine shares the same risk of central nervous system suppression — along with increased dehydration and intensified side effects.
To ensure safety, it’s best to avoid alcohol when taking any motion sickness medication.
Ready for some tips on how to relieve nausea and hangovers more effectively (and maybe prevent them altogether)? Here we go!
If you’re finding that alcohol is taking up a bit too much air time in your life in general — whether or not Dramamine is part of the picture — here are some additional tips for the journey.
Nausea is, unfortunately, a part of life, and it’s great that Dramamine is here to help. But the not-so-helpful interactions between this medication and alcohol don’t have to be part of your journey. Happy booze-free, hangover-free travels!
Wondering can I drink alcohol after having a stent fitted? Learn the facts, risks, and safe steps for heart health after your stent procedure.
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We’ve all heard the myth that a glass of red wine is good for the heart. But after a major medical event like a stent placement, that old advice gets complicated. You might be asking yourself, “Can I drink alcohol after having a stent fitted?” The answer isn’t as simple as you might think, and it’s crucial to understand the risks during this fragile recovery period. We'll look at the science-backed facts, helping you understand why moderation or abstinence is so important for protecting your newly repaired arteries and overall cardiovascular health.
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?
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.
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:
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.
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?
It's no secret that alcohol can contribute to weight gain, but the reasons why are often overlooked. Alcoholic drinks are packed with what are often called “empty calories” because they offer little nutritional value. A single glass of wine or a pint of beer can have a surprising number of calories, and since our bodies prioritize processing alcohol over burning fat, this can lead to weight gain over time. This extra weight puts additional strain on our cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of high blood pressure and other heart issues. If you're curious about the impact of your own habits, you can calculate not just the financial cost but also the hidden calorie cost of drinking. Understanding this connection is a key step in protecting our heart health, especially for those of us who have or are at risk for heart conditions.
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.
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!
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.
It’s completely normal to wonder about the road ahead after any heart procedure. You want to know when you can get back to your routine, your hobbies, and just feeling like yourself again. The recovery timeline can vary quite a bit from person to person, depending on your overall health and the specifics of your situation. The most important thing you can do is to follow the advice of your healthcare team. They will give you a personalized plan with specific instructions on activity levels, medications, and follow-up appointments. Understanding the general timeline, however, can help you set realistic expectations. A key factor in that timeline is the type of procedure you had, as the recovery from a stent is very different from that of more invasive surgeries.
A stent procedure is much less invasive than open-heart surgery, and that difference is clearly reflected in the recovery time. Many people who receive a stent are able to return to their normal activities within a week or two, though full recovery can sometimes take longer. Light activity is often encouraged to help with healing. In contrast, open-heart surgery is a major operation that requires a much longer and more intensive recovery, often lasting several weeks to months. Activity is usually very limited in the beginning. While both procedures often require medications like blood thinners to prevent complications, the overall path back to full strength is significantly shorter and less demanding after a stent placement.
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:
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!
We’ve established that moderation is key, especially after a heart procedure. But what about binge drinking? This isn't just about having a few too many on a Saturday night; it’s about consuming a large amount of alcohol in a short time, which puts immense stress on your body — particularly your heart. For someone with a stent, this is especially risky. A sudden influx of alcohol can quickly raise your blood pressure and even trigger irregular heartbeats. This puts a dangerous strain on your newly repaired arteries, potentially counteracting the very benefits the stent was placed to provide. It also reminds us that any amount of alcohol carries some risk, and binge drinking significantly magnifies those dangers, especially when it comes to interacting with essential medications like blood thinners.
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:
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.
The conversation around alcohol and heart health can feel confusing, with some studies suggesting benefits while others highlight major risks. It’s especially complicated after a procedure like a stent placement. Let's break down what some of the research indicates, but remember, these are general findings. Your personal health situation is unique, and your doctor's advice is always the most important guide for your recovery and long-term well-being. This is a time to be extra mindful about what you put into your body, and understanding the full picture can help you make the best choices for your healing process.
Interestingly, some research has explored the effects of alcohol on arteries after stenting. One study found that men who drank moderately had a lower chance of their arteries re-narrowing compared to those who drank very little. In that study, only 23% of moderate drinkers needed a repeat procedure, while 43% of very light drinkers did. The researchers suggested that moderate alcohol consumption might help prevent arteries from narrowing again after angioplasty. However, it's crucial to see this as a single data point and not a prescription to drink for your health. The risks associated with alcohol, especially during a fragile recovery period, can easily cancel out any potential, and still debated, benefits.
You may have also heard that alcohol can be good for your cholesterol. Some studies, particularly those looking at red wine, suggest that light to moderate drinking might help your heart by raising HDL, or "good" cholesterol. It’s thought that this could also help with inflammation in the body. While this is a common talking point, the potential benefits are often small and can be easily outweighed by the negative effects of alcohol, especially after a major heart event. You can get similar or better cholesterol-managing benefits from diet and exercise, without the added risks that come with drinking alcohol.
While the potential benefits we just discussed are debated, the risks are much more clear-cut. For many people, especially those with specific health factors, drinking alcohol after a stent isn't just a bad idea—it's dangerous. These aren't suggestions but firm guidelines for protecting your health and ensuring your recovery is successful. If any of the following situations apply to you, abstaining from alcohol is the safest and smartest choice you can make for your heart. This is where being honest with yourself and your medical team is absolutely essential for your long-term health and peace of mind.
Your overall health picture is the most important factor. You should not drink alcohol at all if you have conditions like liver problems or uncontrolled high blood pressure. Most importantly, you need to consider your medications. If you are taking blood thinners or other heart medications, alcohol can cause dangerous interactions, increasing bleeding risks or causing unpredictable changes in blood pressure. In fact, alcohol can interfere with all the drugs typically used after a stent placement. At high amounts, this interaction can be fatal. Always talk to your doctor about whether it's safe for you to drink. Your life could depend on it.
Seek medical attention or dial 911 if you experience any of these symptoms after a stent procedure:
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.
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!
It’s easy to hear “one drink a day” and lose track of what that actually means. Is a pint of high-alcohol craft beer one drink? What about that generous pour of wine at dinner? In the US, a “standard” drink contains about 14 grams of pure alcohol. This typically looks like 12 ounces of regular beer (at 5% ABV), 5 ounces of wine (at 12% ABV), or 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits like vodka or whiskey (at 40% ABV). Understanding these measurements is the first step toward accurately tracking your intake and making sure your version of “one drink” aligns with medical guidelines. Knowing exactly how much you’re consuming can help you better understand its effect on your blood alcohol content and your heart.
If you choose to drink after a stent procedure, doing so with intention is crucial for protecting your heart. This is the core of mindful drinking — it’s about being present and making conscious choices rather than drinking out of habit. Before you pour a drink, ask yourself why you want it. Is it to relax, to celebrate, or just because it’s there? Consider opting for drinks that are lower in alcohol and sugar, as sugary cocktails and high-calorie beers can put additional stress on your body. The goal is to shift your relationship with alcohol from a reactive one to a proactive one, where your long-term health is always the priority.
One of the most effective strategies for safer drinking is to manage your pace and stay hydrated. A simple but powerful rule is to alternate every alcoholic beverage with a full glass of water. This practice does two important things: it prevents dehydration, which can strain your system, and it naturally slows down your rate of consumption. Giving your body more time to process the alcohol helps prevent sudden spikes in blood pressure, which is especially important when you’re protecting your heart. This simple habit makes it easier to stay within moderation and reinforces the benefits you gain on the days you choose not to drink at all.
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.
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.
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.
A stent is a fantastic piece of medical technology, but it's important to remember that it doesn't cure the underlying coronary artery disease. It's a fix for a specific blockage, not a full-body reset. This means the risk of future heart problems, including another heart attack, is still there if lifestyle factors aren't addressed. This is especially true when it comes to alcohol. If you're focused on your heart health, it's generally best to limit or avoid alcohol, and this becomes even more critical after you've had a heart attack. Making conscious choices now is your best defense for the future.
You're probably eager to get back to your routine, and you will! The key is to follow your doctor's timeline. They will give you specific instructions on when you can drive, return to work, and tackle your usual chores. This isn't a time for guesswork or pushing yourself too hard. To protect your well-being, it’s essential to be completely honest and open with your doctor about how you're feeling and what you're capable of. They are your best resource for navigating this recovery phase safely. Your body has been through a lot, so give it the time it needs to heal properly.
Once you get the green light from your doctor, easing back into physical activity is a huge step toward long-term heart health. Start with gentle activities like walking. The goal isn't to run a marathon next week, but to slowly build back your strength and stamina. After your initial recovery, you'll be able to get back to being your normal self, but it will likely involve adjusting to a new lifestyle with healthier choices. Think of it as creating a new, stronger foundation for your health, where regular, enjoyable movement is a non-negotiable part of your day.
This is a common question that many people feel shy about asking, but it's a perfectly normal part of life and recovery. Most doctors advise that you can resume sexual activity when you feel ready—often when you can handle mild to moderate exercise, like climbing two flights of stairs, without getting breathless or having chest pain. Ultimately, we still need to do our part to live a healthy lifestyle. That means focusing on heart-healthy foods, getting regular exercise, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol, all of which contribute to your overall stamina and well-being.
Planning a trip? Flying involves changes in air pressure and can be physically demanding (hello, lugging suitcases!), so it's wise to check with your doctor before booking a flight. They'll consider your specific situation, the length of the flight, and how your recovery is progressing. There's no one-size-fits-all answer, so it's crucial to speak to a healthcare provider about your individual case and medical history. They can give you the personalized advice you need to travel safely and with peace of mind.
Your doctor might recommend a cardiac rehabilitation program, and if they do, it's a fantastic opportunity. These programs are medically supervised and designed to help you recover safely while improving your overall cardiovascular health. They typically include structured exercise, education on heart-healthy living (like nutrition and stress management), and counseling to help you adjust. Think of it as having a dedicated team of experts guiding you through the process of building a stronger, healthier life after your stent procedure. It’s a proactive step that can make a huge difference in your long-term outcome.
This is non-negotiable. Your doctor will likely prescribe medications like blood thinners or cholesterol-lowering drugs to prevent new clots and keep your arteries open. It is absolutely critical to take these exactly as prescribed. This is also where alcohol can be particularly dangerous. Alcohol interacts with all the drugs typically used after a stent placement, which can lead to serious complications. Mixing them can alter how the medications work and put unnecessary strain on your body. Sticking to your medication plan is one of the most important things you can do for your heart.
A stent procedure is the beginning of a new chapter in your health journey, not the end of the story. Regular follow-up appointments with your doctor are essential to monitor your progress, check your blood pressure and cholesterol, and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. These checkups are your chance to ask questions and stay on track. If you do choose to drink alcohol, these appointments are the time to discuss it with your doctor. The key takeaway is that if we choose to drink, it’s vital to practice moderation and ensure it aligns with your overall health plan.
What we eat has a direct impact on our heart. Adopting a heart-healthy diet, like the Mediterranean diet, is one of the best changes you can make. This means filling your plate with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins (like fish and chicken), and healthy fats (like olive oil and avocados). It also means cutting back on processed foods, saturated fats, trans fats, and excess sodium. This isn't about deprivation; it's about nourishing your body with the fuel it needs to heal and thrive for years to come.
Emotional stress can take a physical toll on your heart by raising blood pressure and heart rate. Finding healthy ways to manage stress is a crucial part of your recovery. This could be through practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or simply spending time in nature. To give our body the best chance at healing, it’s best to take it easy and avoid stressing it out with things like alcohol, which can add both physical and emotional strain. Prioritizing relaxation isn't an indulgence—it's a core component of your heart care plan.
You don't have to go through this alone. Leaning on your support system is incredibly important for both your emotional and physical recovery. It’s important to have a support system in place, whether it’s family, friends, or your healthcare team. Talking about your experiences, fears, and successes can make a world of difference. For many, connecting with others who are on a similar journey to improve their health and change their relationship with alcohol can be empowering. The Reframe app, for example, offers a supportive community to help you build these healthy habits.
How soon after my stent procedure can I have a drink? There isn't a single, universal timeline for when it's safe to drink alcohol again. Your personal recovery depends on your overall health, the specifics of your procedure, and the medications you're taking. The first few weeks are a fragile healing period where your body needs to recover without the added stress of processing alcohol. The only person who can give you a definite answer is your doctor, who understands your complete medical picture.
What is the single biggest danger of drinking alcohol with a stent? The most critical risk is how alcohol interacts with your new medication regimen. After a stent, you'll likely be on essential drugs like blood thinners and cholesterol medication. Alcohol can interfere with how these drugs work, potentially increasing your risk of bleeding or causing unpredictable changes in your blood pressure. This interaction isn't just a minor issue; it can have very serious consequences for your heart health.
I've always heard red wine is good for the heart. Does that still apply after a stent? That old piece of advice gets complicated after a major heart event. While some studies have pointed to potential benefits from compounds in red wine, the risks associated with alcohol itself generally outweigh them, especially during recovery. You can get much more reliable heart-healthy benefits from things like a balanced diet and gentle exercise, without adding the strain that alcohol puts on your cardiovascular system.
My procedure was a while ago and I feel fine. Is it still risky to drink? It's great that you're feeling well, but it's important to remember that a stent treats a specific blockage, not the underlying condition of coronary artery disease. Alcohol can still contribute to risk factors like high blood pressure, weight gain, and irregular heart rhythms, which can lead to future problems. Thinking about your long-term heart health is just as important as getting through the initial recovery.
If my doctor and I agree that occasional drinking is okay, what's the safest way to do it? If you choose to drink, the key is to be mindful and intentional. This means knowing what a standard drink size is for your beverage of choice and sticking to strict moderation. A great strategy is to pace yourself by having a full glass of water between each alcoholic drink. This keeps you hydrated and naturally slows you down. The goal is to make a conscious choice that supports your health, not to fall back into old habits.
We’ve all heard the myth that a glass of red wine is good for the heart. But after a major medical event like a stent placement, that old advice gets complicated. You might be asking yourself, “Can I drink alcohol after having a stent fitted?” The answer isn’t as simple as you might think, and it’s crucial to understand the risks during this fragile recovery period. We'll look at the science-backed facts, helping you understand why moderation or abstinence is so important for protecting your newly repaired arteries and overall cardiovascular health.
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?
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.
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:
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.
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?
It's no secret that alcohol can contribute to weight gain, but the reasons why are often overlooked. Alcoholic drinks are packed with what are often called “empty calories” because they offer little nutritional value. A single glass of wine or a pint of beer can have a surprising number of calories, and since our bodies prioritize processing alcohol over burning fat, this can lead to weight gain over time. This extra weight puts additional strain on our cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of high blood pressure and other heart issues. If you're curious about the impact of your own habits, you can calculate not just the financial cost but also the hidden calorie cost of drinking. Understanding this connection is a key step in protecting our heart health, especially for those of us who have or are at risk for heart conditions.
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.
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!
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.
It’s completely normal to wonder about the road ahead after any heart procedure. You want to know when you can get back to your routine, your hobbies, and just feeling like yourself again. The recovery timeline can vary quite a bit from person to person, depending on your overall health and the specifics of your situation. The most important thing you can do is to follow the advice of your healthcare team. They will give you a personalized plan with specific instructions on activity levels, medications, and follow-up appointments. Understanding the general timeline, however, can help you set realistic expectations. A key factor in that timeline is the type of procedure you had, as the recovery from a stent is very different from that of more invasive surgeries.
A stent procedure is much less invasive than open-heart surgery, and that difference is clearly reflected in the recovery time. Many people who receive a stent are able to return to their normal activities within a week or two, though full recovery can sometimes take longer. Light activity is often encouraged to help with healing. In contrast, open-heart surgery is a major operation that requires a much longer and more intensive recovery, often lasting several weeks to months. Activity is usually very limited in the beginning. While both procedures often require medications like blood thinners to prevent complications, the overall path back to full strength is significantly shorter and less demanding after a stent placement.
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:
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!
We’ve established that moderation is key, especially after a heart procedure. But what about binge drinking? This isn't just about having a few too many on a Saturday night; it’s about consuming a large amount of alcohol in a short time, which puts immense stress on your body — particularly your heart. For someone with a stent, this is especially risky. A sudden influx of alcohol can quickly raise your blood pressure and even trigger irregular heartbeats. This puts a dangerous strain on your newly repaired arteries, potentially counteracting the very benefits the stent was placed to provide. It also reminds us that any amount of alcohol carries some risk, and binge drinking significantly magnifies those dangers, especially when it comes to interacting with essential medications like blood thinners.
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:
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.
The conversation around alcohol and heart health can feel confusing, with some studies suggesting benefits while others highlight major risks. It’s especially complicated after a procedure like a stent placement. Let's break down what some of the research indicates, but remember, these are general findings. Your personal health situation is unique, and your doctor's advice is always the most important guide for your recovery and long-term well-being. This is a time to be extra mindful about what you put into your body, and understanding the full picture can help you make the best choices for your healing process.
Interestingly, some research has explored the effects of alcohol on arteries after stenting. One study found that men who drank moderately had a lower chance of their arteries re-narrowing compared to those who drank very little. In that study, only 23% of moderate drinkers needed a repeat procedure, while 43% of very light drinkers did. The researchers suggested that moderate alcohol consumption might help prevent arteries from narrowing again after angioplasty. However, it's crucial to see this as a single data point and not a prescription to drink for your health. The risks associated with alcohol, especially during a fragile recovery period, can easily cancel out any potential, and still debated, benefits.
You may have also heard that alcohol can be good for your cholesterol. Some studies, particularly those looking at red wine, suggest that light to moderate drinking might help your heart by raising HDL, or "good" cholesterol. It’s thought that this could also help with inflammation in the body. While this is a common talking point, the potential benefits are often small and can be easily outweighed by the negative effects of alcohol, especially after a major heart event. You can get similar or better cholesterol-managing benefits from diet and exercise, without the added risks that come with drinking alcohol.
While the potential benefits we just discussed are debated, the risks are much more clear-cut. For many people, especially those with specific health factors, drinking alcohol after a stent isn't just a bad idea—it's dangerous. These aren't suggestions but firm guidelines for protecting your health and ensuring your recovery is successful. If any of the following situations apply to you, abstaining from alcohol is the safest and smartest choice you can make for your heart. This is where being honest with yourself and your medical team is absolutely essential for your long-term health and peace of mind.
Your overall health picture is the most important factor. You should not drink alcohol at all if you have conditions like liver problems or uncontrolled high blood pressure. Most importantly, you need to consider your medications. If you are taking blood thinners or other heart medications, alcohol can cause dangerous interactions, increasing bleeding risks or causing unpredictable changes in blood pressure. In fact, alcohol can interfere with all the drugs typically used after a stent placement. At high amounts, this interaction can be fatal. Always talk to your doctor about whether it's safe for you to drink. Your life could depend on it.
Seek medical attention or dial 911 if you experience any of these symptoms after a stent procedure:
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.
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!
It’s easy to hear “one drink a day” and lose track of what that actually means. Is a pint of high-alcohol craft beer one drink? What about that generous pour of wine at dinner? In the US, a “standard” drink contains about 14 grams of pure alcohol. This typically looks like 12 ounces of regular beer (at 5% ABV), 5 ounces of wine (at 12% ABV), or 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits like vodka or whiskey (at 40% ABV). Understanding these measurements is the first step toward accurately tracking your intake and making sure your version of “one drink” aligns with medical guidelines. Knowing exactly how much you’re consuming can help you better understand its effect on your blood alcohol content and your heart.
If you choose to drink after a stent procedure, doing so with intention is crucial for protecting your heart. This is the core of mindful drinking — it’s about being present and making conscious choices rather than drinking out of habit. Before you pour a drink, ask yourself why you want it. Is it to relax, to celebrate, or just because it’s there? Consider opting for drinks that are lower in alcohol and sugar, as sugary cocktails and high-calorie beers can put additional stress on your body. The goal is to shift your relationship with alcohol from a reactive one to a proactive one, where your long-term health is always the priority.
One of the most effective strategies for safer drinking is to manage your pace and stay hydrated. A simple but powerful rule is to alternate every alcoholic beverage with a full glass of water. This practice does two important things: it prevents dehydration, which can strain your system, and it naturally slows down your rate of consumption. Giving your body more time to process the alcohol helps prevent sudden spikes in blood pressure, which is especially important when you’re protecting your heart. This simple habit makes it easier to stay within moderation and reinforces the benefits you gain on the days you choose not to drink at all.
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.
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.
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.
A stent is a fantastic piece of medical technology, but it's important to remember that it doesn't cure the underlying coronary artery disease. It's a fix for a specific blockage, not a full-body reset. This means the risk of future heart problems, including another heart attack, is still there if lifestyle factors aren't addressed. This is especially true when it comes to alcohol. If you're focused on your heart health, it's generally best to limit or avoid alcohol, and this becomes even more critical after you've had a heart attack. Making conscious choices now is your best defense for the future.
You're probably eager to get back to your routine, and you will! The key is to follow your doctor's timeline. They will give you specific instructions on when you can drive, return to work, and tackle your usual chores. This isn't a time for guesswork or pushing yourself too hard. To protect your well-being, it’s essential to be completely honest and open with your doctor about how you're feeling and what you're capable of. They are your best resource for navigating this recovery phase safely. Your body has been through a lot, so give it the time it needs to heal properly.
Once you get the green light from your doctor, easing back into physical activity is a huge step toward long-term heart health. Start with gentle activities like walking. The goal isn't to run a marathon next week, but to slowly build back your strength and stamina. After your initial recovery, you'll be able to get back to being your normal self, but it will likely involve adjusting to a new lifestyle with healthier choices. Think of it as creating a new, stronger foundation for your health, where regular, enjoyable movement is a non-negotiable part of your day.
This is a common question that many people feel shy about asking, but it's a perfectly normal part of life and recovery. Most doctors advise that you can resume sexual activity when you feel ready—often when you can handle mild to moderate exercise, like climbing two flights of stairs, without getting breathless or having chest pain. Ultimately, we still need to do our part to live a healthy lifestyle. That means focusing on heart-healthy foods, getting regular exercise, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol, all of which contribute to your overall stamina and well-being.
Planning a trip? Flying involves changes in air pressure and can be physically demanding (hello, lugging suitcases!), so it's wise to check with your doctor before booking a flight. They'll consider your specific situation, the length of the flight, and how your recovery is progressing. There's no one-size-fits-all answer, so it's crucial to speak to a healthcare provider about your individual case and medical history. They can give you the personalized advice you need to travel safely and with peace of mind.
Your doctor might recommend a cardiac rehabilitation program, and if they do, it's a fantastic opportunity. These programs are medically supervised and designed to help you recover safely while improving your overall cardiovascular health. They typically include structured exercise, education on heart-healthy living (like nutrition and stress management), and counseling to help you adjust. Think of it as having a dedicated team of experts guiding you through the process of building a stronger, healthier life after your stent procedure. It’s a proactive step that can make a huge difference in your long-term outcome.
This is non-negotiable. Your doctor will likely prescribe medications like blood thinners or cholesterol-lowering drugs to prevent new clots and keep your arteries open. It is absolutely critical to take these exactly as prescribed. This is also where alcohol can be particularly dangerous. Alcohol interacts with all the drugs typically used after a stent placement, which can lead to serious complications. Mixing them can alter how the medications work and put unnecessary strain on your body. Sticking to your medication plan is one of the most important things you can do for your heart.
A stent procedure is the beginning of a new chapter in your health journey, not the end of the story. Regular follow-up appointments with your doctor are essential to monitor your progress, check your blood pressure and cholesterol, and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. These checkups are your chance to ask questions and stay on track. If you do choose to drink alcohol, these appointments are the time to discuss it with your doctor. The key takeaway is that if we choose to drink, it’s vital to practice moderation and ensure it aligns with your overall health plan.
What we eat has a direct impact on our heart. Adopting a heart-healthy diet, like the Mediterranean diet, is one of the best changes you can make. This means filling your plate with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins (like fish and chicken), and healthy fats (like olive oil and avocados). It also means cutting back on processed foods, saturated fats, trans fats, and excess sodium. This isn't about deprivation; it's about nourishing your body with the fuel it needs to heal and thrive for years to come.
Emotional stress can take a physical toll on your heart by raising blood pressure and heart rate. Finding healthy ways to manage stress is a crucial part of your recovery. This could be through practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or simply spending time in nature. To give our body the best chance at healing, it’s best to take it easy and avoid stressing it out with things like alcohol, which can add both physical and emotional strain. Prioritizing relaxation isn't an indulgence—it's a core component of your heart care plan.
You don't have to go through this alone. Leaning on your support system is incredibly important for both your emotional and physical recovery. It’s important to have a support system in place, whether it’s family, friends, or your healthcare team. Talking about your experiences, fears, and successes can make a world of difference. For many, connecting with others who are on a similar journey to improve their health and change their relationship with alcohol can be empowering. The Reframe app, for example, offers a supportive community to help you build these healthy habits.
How soon after my stent procedure can I have a drink? There isn't a single, universal timeline for when it's safe to drink alcohol again. Your personal recovery depends on your overall health, the specifics of your procedure, and the medications you're taking. The first few weeks are a fragile healing period where your body needs to recover without the added stress of processing alcohol. The only person who can give you a definite answer is your doctor, who understands your complete medical picture.
What is the single biggest danger of drinking alcohol with a stent? The most critical risk is how alcohol interacts with your new medication regimen. After a stent, you'll likely be on essential drugs like blood thinners and cholesterol medication. Alcohol can interfere with how these drugs work, potentially increasing your risk of bleeding or causing unpredictable changes in your blood pressure. This interaction isn't just a minor issue; it can have very serious consequences for your heart health.
I've always heard red wine is good for the heart. Does that still apply after a stent? That old piece of advice gets complicated after a major heart event. While some studies have pointed to potential benefits from compounds in red wine, the risks associated with alcohol itself generally outweigh them, especially during recovery. You can get much more reliable heart-healthy benefits from things like a balanced diet and gentle exercise, without adding the strain that alcohol puts on your cardiovascular system.
My procedure was a while ago and I feel fine. Is it still risky to drink? It's great that you're feeling well, but it's important to remember that a stent treats a specific blockage, not the underlying condition of coronary artery disease. Alcohol can still contribute to risk factors like high blood pressure, weight gain, and irregular heart rhythms, which can lead to future problems. Thinking about your long-term heart health is just as important as getting through the initial recovery.
If my doctor and I agree that occasional drinking is okay, what's the safest way to do it? If you choose to drink, the key is to be mindful and intentional. This means knowing what a standard drink size is for your beverage of choice and sticking to strict moderation. A great strategy is to pace yourself by having a full glass of water between each alcoholic drink. This keeps you hydrated and naturally slows you down. The goal is to make a conscious choice that supports your health, not to fall back into old habits.
Vanilla extract is ubiquitous in spice drawers, but does the alcohol content pose the same risks as other alcoholic beverages? Dive into the science and find out!
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 hundreds 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!
Vanilla extract is a kitchen staple that brings a rich, complex flavor to sweets and baked goods. It’s nearly ubiquitous in baking and added as an enhancer to many other flavors, like caramel and chocolate.
But there’s something lurking inside that vanilla extract bottle in your spice cabinet: alcohol. Why does vanilla extract have alcohol in it, and how much alcohol does it have? Let’s look at the science and find out whether or not vanilla extract poses the same risks as alcohol.
The traditional method of vanilla extract crafting involves splitting the beans to expose their seeds and submerging the split beans in a mixture of alcohol and water. Over time, the alcohol extracts the flavor compounds from the beans, resulting in the aromatic liquid we're familiar with. This method ensures that the full spectrum of vanilla's flavor — from floral to woody — is captured in every drop.
Why does vanilla extract have alcohol? Ethanol (a type of pure alcohol) is the preferred solvent for making vanilla extract due to its efficiency in dissolving the flavor compounds found in vanilla beans. These compounds, including vanillin, are more soluble in alcohol than in other edible liquids, making ethanol ideal for extracting maximum flavor.
In vanilla extract, alcohol is also used for preservation and flavor enhancement. Alcohol stabilizes the flavor compounds, preventing them from degrading over time. This means that a bottle of vanilla extract can retain its flavor for years, unlike other flavorings that may lose potency. Moreover, alcohol's volatile nature helps disperse the vanilla aroma, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dishes in which it’s used.
So just how much alcohol is in vanilla extract, and how is vanilla extract regulated?
By U.S. law, pure vanilla extract must contain a minimum of 35% alcohol. The rest is generally water and vanilla bean extractives. This high alcohol content is necessary to effectively extract the flavors from the vanilla beans and preserve them for long-term storage.
Let’s compare vanilla extract to other common alcoholic products.
Vanilla extract’s high alcohol content places it in a unique category, closer to some liquors. Yet, anyone can purchase vanilla extract on the shelves of a supermarket regardless of age. So why isn’t it a concern for regulators?
In the United States, vanilla extract is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which sets standards for what constitutes “pure” extract, including minimum vanilla extract alcohol content.
Despite its high alcohol percentage, vanilla extract is regulated as a food product, not an alcoholic beverage. However, there are still guidelines and labeling requirements to ensure that the product is used as intended — for cooking and baking rather than consumption as a beverage.
Generally, regulatory agencies do not see vanilla extract as posing a significant risk of misuse due to the small quantities in which it’s bottled (generally a few ounces at a time) and the strong, potent flavor that makes it difficult to misuse. (This doesn’t mean it can’t trigger alcohol misuse behaviors — more on that later.) So what is the proper use for vanilla extract?
Vanilla extract is a staple in both professional and home kitchens. It’s used in baked goods (such as cookies, cakes, brownies, or muffins), yogurts, puddings, sodas, syrups, and sometimes coffee.
When used in baking, the high alcohol content of vanilla extract plays an important role in flavor dispersion. During the baking process, the majority of the alcohol evaporates due to the high temperatures involved, leaving behind the vanilla flavor without a boozy taste. The same isn’t true for some other uses.
In addition to being used in baking, vanilla extract is commonly added to beverages to impart a subtle vanilla flavor. In these cases, the alcohol content is less likely to evaporate completely due to the relatively low temperatures involved.
The amount of vanilla extract typically used in uncooked items is so small that the alcohol content is negligible and highly unlikely to cause intoxication. However, it might impart a boozy aroma or essence that could trigger some of us who are in recovery, especially when added directly to warm drinks like coffee or hot chocolate where the alcohol won’t be cooked off. If you are in recovery, you may want to avoid vanilla extract. (You can learn more in our article about identifying triggers.)
The theoretical amount of vanilla extract required to achieve intoxication is impractically high due to its strong flavor and the adverse effects of consuming large quantities of such a concentrated substance. It's important to remember that vanilla extract is intended as a flavoring agent, not as a beverage. Vanilla extract is incredibly strong-flavored — it should always be measured precisely to avoid overpowering the intended dish or drink.
Vanilla extract is an essential ingredient in some of our favorite dishes, but it comes with some of its own risks and health considerations. Let’s look at a few.
Real vanilla extract is derived from vanilla beans and contains natural antioxidants. The vanillin in imitation extract is produced synthetically and lacks the benefits and flavor complexity of real vanilla extract. Imitation vanilla tends to have a stronger flavor. It contains about 15 times the amount of vanillin per unit as real extract and maintains its flavor better over time and when exposed to high heat. In almost all cases, imitation vanilla extract is still alcohol-based.
Theoretically, consuming a significant amount of vanilla extract right before an alcohol test could lead to a positive result. However, the volume of extract necessary would need to be so high that this scenario is unlikely to actually happen. The amount used in baked goods is typically not more than a teaspoon (about a tenth of one shot of liquor) and shouldn’t cause any issues.
What happens if you drink vanilla extract? First of all, it won’t taste as good as you might think. Vanilla extract is highly concentrated and has an extremely bitter taste when taken directly. Nevertheless, since the alcohol content in vanilla extract is on par with a lighter liquor such as vodka, taking a shot of vanilla extract is not that much different in terms of intoxication potential.
Although vanilla extract contains alcohol, the concentration and the quantity typically used in cooking are unlikely to cause intoxication. Trying to get drunk off vanilla extract by consuming excessive amounts is dangerous and can lead to severe adverse health effects, including alcohol poisoning. In general, you don’t want to feel the results of what happens if you drink vanilla extract.
Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives to vanilla extract that impart that delicious flavor without the added alcohol. In fact, there’s a whole world of alternatives to explore!
Vanilla’s rich, complex flavor translates well to non-alcoholic alternatives that make for a fine substitute for most applications. Concerns about its alcohol content, cost, or availability may make these substances a better choice.
Each of these alternatives captures the essence of vanilla without the booze. Transitioning from traditional vanilla extract to one of these alternatives can open up a new dimension of taste in your dishes, highlighting the adaptability and creativity that comes with cooking and baking.
It's clear that vanilla — a beloved baking ingredient — is more than just a flavor enhancer. The alcohol-based nature of vanilla extract carries the same risks as some alcoholic beverages and may be a trigger for those in recovery. However, its popularity as a kitchen staple showcases its culinary importance rather than its potential for intoxication.
Luckily, there are many alternatives out there that allow everyone to enjoy vanilla. When we take control of our drinking habits and learn to identify our triggers, set boundaries, and remain accountable, we can move forward with an alcohol-free life.
Vanilla extract is a kitchen staple that brings a rich, complex flavor to sweets and baked goods. It’s nearly ubiquitous in baking and added as an enhancer to many other flavors, like caramel and chocolate.
But there’s something lurking inside that vanilla extract bottle in your spice cabinet: alcohol. Why does vanilla extract have alcohol in it, and how much alcohol does it have? Let’s look at the science and find out whether or not vanilla extract poses the same risks as alcohol.
The traditional method of vanilla extract crafting involves splitting the beans to expose their seeds and submerging the split beans in a mixture of alcohol and water. Over time, the alcohol extracts the flavor compounds from the beans, resulting in the aromatic liquid we're familiar with. This method ensures that the full spectrum of vanilla's flavor — from floral to woody — is captured in every drop.
Why does vanilla extract have alcohol? Ethanol (a type of pure alcohol) is the preferred solvent for making vanilla extract due to its efficiency in dissolving the flavor compounds found in vanilla beans. These compounds, including vanillin, are more soluble in alcohol than in other edible liquids, making ethanol ideal for extracting maximum flavor.
In vanilla extract, alcohol is also used for preservation and flavor enhancement. Alcohol stabilizes the flavor compounds, preventing them from degrading over time. This means that a bottle of vanilla extract can retain its flavor for years, unlike other flavorings that may lose potency. Moreover, alcohol's volatile nature helps disperse the vanilla aroma, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dishes in which it’s used.
So just how much alcohol is in vanilla extract, and how is vanilla extract regulated?
By U.S. law, pure vanilla extract must contain a minimum of 35% alcohol. The rest is generally water and vanilla bean extractives. This high alcohol content is necessary to effectively extract the flavors from the vanilla beans and preserve them for long-term storage.
Let’s compare vanilla extract to other common alcoholic products.
Vanilla extract’s high alcohol content places it in a unique category, closer to some liquors. Yet, anyone can purchase vanilla extract on the shelves of a supermarket regardless of age. So why isn’t it a concern for regulators?
In the United States, vanilla extract is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which sets standards for what constitutes “pure” extract, including minimum vanilla extract alcohol content.
Despite its high alcohol percentage, vanilla extract is regulated as a food product, not an alcoholic beverage. However, there are still guidelines and labeling requirements to ensure that the product is used as intended — for cooking and baking rather than consumption as a beverage.
Generally, regulatory agencies do not see vanilla extract as posing a significant risk of misuse due to the small quantities in which it’s bottled (generally a few ounces at a time) and the strong, potent flavor that makes it difficult to misuse. (This doesn’t mean it can’t trigger alcohol misuse behaviors — more on that later.) So what is the proper use for vanilla extract?
Vanilla extract is a staple in both professional and home kitchens. It’s used in baked goods (such as cookies, cakes, brownies, or muffins), yogurts, puddings, sodas, syrups, and sometimes coffee.
When used in baking, the high alcohol content of vanilla extract plays an important role in flavor dispersion. During the baking process, the majority of the alcohol evaporates due to the high temperatures involved, leaving behind the vanilla flavor without a boozy taste. The same isn’t true for some other uses.
In addition to being used in baking, vanilla extract is commonly added to beverages to impart a subtle vanilla flavor. In these cases, the alcohol content is less likely to evaporate completely due to the relatively low temperatures involved.
The amount of vanilla extract typically used in uncooked items is so small that the alcohol content is negligible and highly unlikely to cause intoxication. However, it might impart a boozy aroma or essence that could trigger some of us who are in recovery, especially when added directly to warm drinks like coffee or hot chocolate where the alcohol won’t be cooked off. If you are in recovery, you may want to avoid vanilla extract. (You can learn more in our article about identifying triggers.)
The theoretical amount of vanilla extract required to achieve intoxication is impractically high due to its strong flavor and the adverse effects of consuming large quantities of such a concentrated substance. It's important to remember that vanilla extract is intended as a flavoring agent, not as a beverage. Vanilla extract is incredibly strong-flavored — it should always be measured precisely to avoid overpowering the intended dish or drink.
Vanilla extract is an essential ingredient in some of our favorite dishes, but it comes with some of its own risks and health considerations. Let’s look at a few.
Real vanilla extract is derived from vanilla beans and contains natural antioxidants. The vanillin in imitation extract is produced synthetically and lacks the benefits and flavor complexity of real vanilla extract. Imitation vanilla tends to have a stronger flavor. It contains about 15 times the amount of vanillin per unit as real extract and maintains its flavor better over time and when exposed to high heat. In almost all cases, imitation vanilla extract is still alcohol-based.
Theoretically, consuming a significant amount of vanilla extract right before an alcohol test could lead to a positive result. However, the volume of extract necessary would need to be so high that this scenario is unlikely to actually happen. The amount used in baked goods is typically not more than a teaspoon (about a tenth of one shot of liquor) and shouldn’t cause any issues.
What happens if you drink vanilla extract? First of all, it won’t taste as good as you might think. Vanilla extract is highly concentrated and has an extremely bitter taste when taken directly. Nevertheless, since the alcohol content in vanilla extract is on par with a lighter liquor such as vodka, taking a shot of vanilla extract is not that much different in terms of intoxication potential.
Although vanilla extract contains alcohol, the concentration and the quantity typically used in cooking are unlikely to cause intoxication. Trying to get drunk off vanilla extract by consuming excessive amounts is dangerous and can lead to severe adverse health effects, including alcohol poisoning. In general, you don’t want to feel the results of what happens if you drink vanilla extract.
Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives to vanilla extract that impart that delicious flavor without the added alcohol. In fact, there’s a whole world of alternatives to explore!
Vanilla’s rich, complex flavor translates well to non-alcoholic alternatives that make for a fine substitute for most applications. Concerns about its alcohol content, cost, or availability may make these substances a better choice.
Each of these alternatives captures the essence of vanilla without the booze. Transitioning from traditional vanilla extract to one of these alternatives can open up a new dimension of taste in your dishes, highlighting the adaptability and creativity that comes with cooking and baking.
It's clear that vanilla — a beloved baking ingredient — is more than just a flavor enhancer. The alcohol-based nature of vanilla extract carries the same risks as some alcoholic beverages and may be a trigger for those in recovery. However, its popularity as a kitchen staple showcases its culinary importance rather than its potential for intoxication.
Luckily, there are many alternatives out there that allow everyone to enjoy vanilla. When we take control of our drinking habits and learn to identify our triggers, set boundaries, and remain accountable, we can move forward with an alcohol-free life.
Curious about gin’s health effects? Get clear answers to “is gin good for you” with a look at its pros, cons, and what really matters for your well-being.
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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.
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The recent boom in craft and flavored gins has put the spirit back in the spotlight. With beautiful bottles and infusions ranging from rhubarb to rose petals, modern gin seems more approachable and fun than ever. This clever marketing can make it easy to forget that we're still talking about a high-proof spirit. The sweet flavors and colorful appearance can mask the potent alcohol content, making it easy to drink more than you intend. Before you pour another "pink G&T," it's worth asking, is gin good for you, or is it just clever packaging? Let's explore the health implications behind the trend.
Gin has a reputation as a tough, gritty drink. In 1984, George Orwell described the fictional “Victory Gin” in colorful terms (it’s fantasy, of course, but still sounds a lot like the real thing): “The Victory Gin was like nitric acid … in swallowing it one had the sensation of being hit on the back of the head with a rubber club. The next moment, however, the burning in his belly died down and the world began to look more cheerful.”
Now, while most gin drinkers probably wouldn’t describe their beverage of choice quite this harshly, real-life gin has a pretty serious dark side. So, what is gin, exactly? Where do the myths about gin’s supposed benefits come from? And what are gin’s disadvantages? Let’s find out more.
Gin is a distilled alcoholic drink — a “spirit” along the lines of whiskey, vodka, or rum. Like other spirits, it’s made through a two-step process of fermentation and distillation. Juniper berries used in the second step of gin production give it its unique trademark flavor.
The characteristic gin flavors — the juniper berry and other botanicals, such as coriander, licorice, or angelica root — are added during the distillation process. As American University chemistry professor Matt Hartings explained in Chemistry World, “These all combine to give a piney, woody, peppery, citrusy, woody, spicy and mentholy taste … How flavor molecules interact with your sensory system completely changes based on what they’re present with. Going from one gin to the next, you’re going to get those hints of juniper slightly differently depending on what other botanicals they’re mixed with.“
There are two primary methods of infusion: steeping and vapor infusion. The first is a lot like steeping tea: botanicals are soaked in the spirit for 24 hours to several days. Vapor infusion, on the other hand, happens when the botanicals are placed in a basket over the still, allowing alcohol vapors to pass through and soak in the characteristic flavors along the way.
Gin manufacturers famously keep their recipes close to the vest, and the exact ratios of botanicals are often a trade secret. A Chemistry World article explores the science of gin distillation and features an interview with Sam Carter, a senior brand ambassador for the Bombay Spirits Company. Carter writes, “Our master botanicalist is the only person that knows the recipe for all of our gins. He gets all the botanicals sent to him in Geneva, he then divides them into the right ratio and sends us the boxes of botanicals ready to load into the infuser basket.”
As a result, different types of gin have distinct flavor profiles. These are some of the big names:
As for the nutritional components of gin, 1 shot (1.5 fluid ounces) contains about 97 calories. Gin doesn’t contain any sugars, fats, proteins, or other nutrients, and the calories come from the ethanol itself. This is true for most gin varieties, although the situation changes if we’re talking about mixed drinks. In that case, the calorie count can skyrocket.
While gin itself is free of sugar, it’s rarely consumed straight. This is where things get tricky. The classic gin and tonic, for example, can be a hidden sugar bomb. A standard 12-ounce can of tonic water can contain over 30 grams of sugar — that’s almost as much as a can of soda! When you consider that many cocktails call for juices, syrups, and other sweet liqueurs, the sugar content can add up quickly. It’s often the mixers, not the gin, that turn a simple drink into a high-calorie, high-sugar beverage. Being aware of what you’re mixing with your spirit is a key part of practicing mindful drinking. If you’re looking to make a healthier choice, consider swapping regular tonic for diet tonic or soda water with a squeeze of fresh lime for flavor without the extra sugar.
There are many myths around gin, some centering on its supposed benefits. The idea of gin as a health beverage goes way back to the 18th century. That’s when it was first marketed as a health drink and embraced as a cheap alternative to brandy, becoming especially popular in England.
This marketing quickly exploded, leading to the notorious “gin craze” in England. According to Daniel Defoe, "the Distillers have found out a way to hit the palate of the Poor, by their new fashion'd compound Waters called Geneva, so that the common People seem not to value the French-brandy as usual, and even not to desire it."
According to a Historic UK article, “Mother’s Ruin,” “Much of the gin was drunk by women … children were neglected, daughters were sold into prostitution, and wet nurses gave gin to babies to quieten them … People would do anything to get gin … a cattle drover sold his eleven-year-old daughter to a trader for a gallon of gin, and a coachman pawned his wife for a quart bottle.”
The disarray led to the Gin Acts of 1736 and 1751, with William Hogarth's engraving Gin Lane capturing the spirit of the gin craze. In 1736, Bishop Thomas Wilson argued that gin produced a "drunken ungovernable set of people,” and it took years for the affected communities to regain a sense of normalcy.
While the gin craze is deep in the past, many myths about the “benefits of gin” persist to this day, in spite of the fact that they are dubious at best. Let’s explore some of the main ones to answer the question, “Is gin good for health?”
There has been an idea floating around that juniper berries give gin health-boosting benefits. And while juniper berries do indeed have antioxidant properties, those benefits are all but obliterated by the gin production process. So, while the sought-after botanical flavors remain in the mix, the health benefits are pretty much completely lost.
Another supposed “advantage” of gin is the idea that gin and tonic will prevent malaria. Rest assured this is not the case! The myth comes from the practice of giving gin and tonic to soldiers to make quinine treatment for malaria more palatable.
Finally, the idea that gin is a healthier option because it has fewer calories (64 per fluid ounce) might be true to some degree. However, once we add mixers, it becomes a whole different story. Even tonic water — in spite of masquerading as calorie-free seltzer and sounding almost like a health drink — is anything but low-cal. In fact, one can of tonic has about 124 calories, bringing a gin and tonic up to about 140 calories per serving. While that is on the low side, it’s definitely not calorie-free.
Let's tackle the claim that gin is a secret weapon for glowing skin and smooth digestion. This idea stems from the juniper berries used in its production, which contain antioxidants. Historically, people believed these botanicals could aid digestion and offer anti-aging effects. However, the reality is that alcohol itself works against these goals. Alcohol is a diuretic that dehydrates your skin, which can lead to dullness, dryness, and more prominent fine lines. It can also irritate the digestive system, often causing the exact bloating and discomfort it’s rumored to fix. Any potential benefit from the trace botanicals is completely negated by the negative impact of the alcohol.
Another common myth suggests gin has anti-inflammatory properties, once again crediting the juniper berries for their historical use in soothing ailments like joint pain. While juniper may have some anti-inflammatory qualities in its natural form, this doesn't translate to the finished spirit. In fact, alcohol has the opposite effect. Consistent alcohol consumption is a known contributor to chronic inflammation in the body, which is linked to numerous long-term health issues. Looking to an alcoholic beverage for anti-inflammatory benefits is counterproductive. You’re far better off eating antioxidant-rich foods, like actual berries, to fight inflammation.
With an alcohol content of 80 proof (40% alcohol by volume), gin is one of the stronger drinks out there. The effects of drinking too much gin are similar to those of overdoing any alcoholic beverage.
In the short term, drinking too much alcohol (including gin, which is particularly easy to overdo since its clear appearance and medicinal smell can make it seem like a health tonic) leads to a number of possible problems. Our cognitive abilities take a hit, and we are more likely to say or do something we regret later. We’re more prone to accidents and more likely to wake up with a nasty hangover. And if we really overdo it, we could end up with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and even alcohol poisoning.
In the long term, we’re looking at a number of possible health issues:
The crisp, botanical scent of gin can be misleading, making it seem lighter or even healthier than other spirits. However, its effects are just as potent. In the short term, drinking too much gin can quickly impair your judgment and cognitive function, which might lead you to say or do things you'll regret. It also increases your risk of accidents. The morning after often comes with a punishing hangover, and if you really overdo it, you could face more severe symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or even life-threatening alcohol poisoning. These immediate consequences are your body’s clear signal that it’s been overwhelmed.
When occasional gin nights become a regular habit, the risks extend far beyond a simple hangover. Consistent, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a wide range of serious health problems that develop over time. Your body has to work hard to process alcohol, and putting that strain on it repeatedly can cause lasting damage. We’re talking about significant issues affecting your most vital organs, from your liver and heart to your brain. Understanding these long-term risks is a crucial step in making more mindful decisions about your drinking habits and protecting your future health.
The long-term consequences of regular alcohol use are serious and can affect your entire body. Research shows that even light drinking can increase the risk of certain cancers, including breast cancer. Over time, alcohol’s impact on the cardiovascular system can raise blood pressure, contributing to a higher risk of stroke. Furthermore, the cognitive decline associated with chronic drinking can impair brain function and may even lead to permanent damage or increase the likelihood of developing dementia later in life. These risks highlight that no amount of alcohol is truly harmless.
Your liver is the primary organ responsible for metabolizing alcohol, and it can only handle so much at once. When you drink gin or any other alcoholic beverage excessively, you force your liver into overdrive. This can lead to inflammation and the buildup of fat, a condition known as fatty liver disease. If the habit continues, it can progress to more severe and irreversible conditions like alcoholic hepatitis or cirrhosis, where healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue. It’s important to remember that gin is no exception; it contributes to liver damage just like any other spirit.
Mixing alcohol with medication is a dangerous gamble. Gin, like all alcohol, can interact with a wide variety of prescription and over-the-counter drugs in harmful ways. In some cases, alcohol can render a medication less effective, preventing you from getting the treatment you need. In other instances, it can amplify the drug’s effects or create toxic new side effects, such as internal bleeding, breathing difficulties, or severe drowsiness. Before you have a drink, it’s essential to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about whether it’s safe with any medications you’re taking.
It’s a common question: Is gin “better” or “worse” for you than other types of alcohol? The straightforward answer is that, ounce for ounce, the ethanol in gin is just as harmful as the ethanol in vodka, whiskey, or any other spirit. The primary health risks of alcohol come from the alcohol itself, not necessarily the specific type of drink. However, different beverages do have unique properties that can influence how you feel after drinking them and their overall impact on your body. Factors like congeners, mixers, and nutrient content can create some differences, but it’s crucial to remember that moderation is the most important factor for your health, regardless of what’s in your glass.
You might have heard someone say that clear liquors like gin or vodka give them less of a hangover than darker spirits like whiskey, brandy, or dark rum. There’s some science to back this up. Darker liquors contain higher levels of congeners, which are chemical byproducts from the fermentation and aging process. These compounds contribute to the drink’s flavor and color but are also linked to more severe hangover symptoms. While choosing gin might lead to a slightly more bearable morning after for some, it’s important not to mistake this for a health benefit. The alcohol content is still the primary driver of long-term health risks.
When comparing gin to wine or beer, the differences become a bit more complex. Some drinks, particularly red wine, contain plant-based compounds called polyphenols, which have antioxidant properties. However, the potential benefits of these compounds are often negated by the negative effects of the alcohol they’re paired with. Gin, as a distilled spirit, contains virtually no nutrients, sugars, or fats—just calories from alcohol. While this might seem appealing if you’re counting calories, remember that mixers like tonic water or juice can quickly add a significant amount of sugar and calories back into your drink.
The strength of an alcoholic beverage is determined by its alcohol by volume (ABV). Most standard gins, vodkas, whiskeys, and rums are bottled at around 40% ABV, or 80 proof. While some modern craft gins are bottled at a higher proof, it’s not a universal rule for the category. The perception that gin is “stronger” often comes from its distinct, sharp botanical flavor, which can make its alcoholic punch feel more immediate. Ultimately, the most important thing is to check the label and be aware of the ABV to understand how much alcohol you’re actually consuming and how it might affect your blood alcohol content.
Recently, a resurgence in gin’s popularity has brought many new, flavored, “user-friendly” varieties on the market — some of them potentially more problematic because they are targeted largely at the younger crowd.
A 2018 article in The Guardian discussed berry-infused “pink gin” with British bartender Jack Wakelin, who complained about the sudden commercialization of the drink: “It’s gone bonkers … We get people in all the time asking: ‘What gins do you have?’ It’s an obsession.” The new gins — flavored with “everything from marshmallow root to cocoa” — are edging way too close to liqueur territory for the comfort of purists.
However, there are other concerns regarding “pink gin” and its flavored relatives. The image makeover makes them appear innocuous despite their very high alcohol content, which tends to get masked by the flavors. The problem is similar to one many people have pointed out regarding Smirnoff Ice, Mike’s Hard Lemonade, and the like: all of them look like sugary sodas, but in reality they’re very far from that (except for the sweeteners part, because these drinks do tend to be loaded with them).
The history of gin is filled with cautionary tales. The infamous "gin craze" of 18th-century England began when gin was promoted as a cheap, accessible alternative to brandy. As writer Daniel Defoe observed, distillers had found a way to "hit the palate of the Poor." This marketing success led to a public health crisis. The social decay was so profound, with stories of parents selling children for a bottle, that it prompted government action through the Gin Acts of 1736 and 1751. The era's grim reality was immortalized in William Hogarth's engraving, "Gin Lane." This wasn't gin's only dark chapter; during American Prohibition, the term "bathtub gin" emerged to describe dangerously concocted homemade spirits, further cementing gin's reputation as a drink with a complicated and sometimes hazardous past.
If you’re trying to watch your alcohol intake (or maybe even quit entirely), congrats! You’re making a great choice, and you’re on your way to being a healthier, happier version of yourself. In the meantime, here are some tips to make the journey a bit easier:
If you choose to drink gin, understanding the official guidelines for alcohol consumption is a great first step toward protecting your health. These aren't arbitrary rules; they're based on extensive research about how alcohol affects the body. Think of them as a framework to help you make informed decisions. Knowing the recommended limits can help you practice mindful drinking, stay aware of your intake, and reduce potential risks. It’s about empowering yourself with knowledge so you can prioritize your well-being, whether you're enjoying a drink at home or out with friends.
So, what does "moderate" drinking actually mean? According to health experts, it’s generally defined as about one standard drink per day for women and one to two for men. For a spirit like gin, a standard drink is a 1.5-ounce shot (at 80-proof, or 40% alcohol by volume). It’s easy to pour more than that, especially at home, so using a jigger to measure can be a real eye-opener. Sticking to this definition of moderation is a key part of reducing the health risks associated with alcohol and maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
Beyond daily moderation, it’s also helpful to think about weekly limits. Some guidelines suggest that women should aim for no more than two units of alcohol per day, and men no more than three. An alcohol "unit" can be a confusing measurement, but a single 1.5-ounce shot of gin is roughly 1.5 units. Keeping track of these units can feel like a bit of math, but it helps put your consumption into perspective over a longer period. This approach prevents a few "light" days from being offset by a weekend of heavy drinking, encouraging a more consistent and safer pattern.
It’s also important to give your body a break. Health professionals recommend having at least one or two alcohol-free, or "dry," days each week. This practice helps prevent your body from becoming accustomed to daily alcohol, which can be a slippery slope toward dependency. It also helps avoid binge drinking — consuming a large amount of alcohol in a short period. Taking intentional days off from drinking allows your body, especially your liver and brain, to rest and repair. You can even use a tool to track your sober days and see the benefits add up.
Moving beyond the official numbers, there are plenty of practical things you can do to make your gin consumption safer. It’s all about being more intentional with your choices, from what you mix your drink with to why you’re drinking in the first place. These small adjustments can make a big difference in your overall health and your relationship with alcohol. By being mindful of the details, you can enjoy a drink without compromising your well-being or letting it interfere with your goals.
A classic gin and tonic might seem like a light choice, but mixers can be deceptive. A standard 12-ounce can of tonic water can contain over 30 grams of sugar — that’s more than some sodas! All that added sugar means extra calories and can contribute to other health issues over time. If you enjoy a mixed drink, opt for sugar-free tonic, seltzer water with a squeeze of fresh lime, or other low-sugar alternatives. Being mindful of what’s in your glass beyond the gin itself is a simple but effective way to make your drink healthier.
Pay attention to your reasons for drinking. If you find yourself thinking, "I want to get drunk without gaining weight," or you consistently turn to gin to manage stress or difficult emotions, it might be a sign to look deeper. These thought patterns can indicate that your relationship with alcohol is becoming unhealthy. True well-being isn't just about physical health; it's also about your mental and emotional state. If this sounds familiar, know that support is available. Tools like the Reframe app are designed to help you understand these patterns and build healthier coping mechanisms.
In the end, it’s all about being mindful of our intentions and habits around alcohol. Is gin good for health? No, not really. Is it much worse than other types of alcohol? Not unless we go overboard — a caution that applies to most types of alcohol, especially hard liquors. It helps to approach the process of reexamining our relationship with alcohol with curiosity instead of judgment. After all, there’s so much to discover in the world beyond booze, and we’re here to cheer you on as you continue your journey.
Is "pink gin" or other flavored gin a better choice than classic gin? While the beautiful colors and sweet flavors make these gins seem more approachable, they aren't a healthier option. The added flavors and sugars can mask the high alcohol content, which makes it easy to drink more than you planned. The core ingredient is still a high-proof spirit, and the health risks associated with alcohol remain the same, regardless of the color or taste.
So, the botanicals in gin don't offer any health benefits at all? That's correct. While the plants used to flavor gin, like juniper berries, do have antioxidant properties in their natural state, these benefits are effectively eliminated during the high-heat distillation process. The botanicals are what give gin its signature taste and aroma, but unfortunately, none of their original nutritional value makes it into the final bottle.
I've heard gin is a "skinny" drink. Will switching to gin help me manage my weight? Gin itself contains no sugar, but it's almost always consumed with mixers that do. A classic gin and tonic can have as much sugar as a soda, thanks to the tonic water. While you can opt for sugar-free mixers, it's important to remember that alcohol itself contains calories that can interfere with weight management goals. Focusing on the mixer is a good start, but the alcohol itself is still a key factor.
Does choosing a clear spirit like gin really prevent a bad hangover? There is some truth to the idea that darker liquors, which contain more chemical compounds called congeners, can contribute to more severe hangovers. However, the primary cause of a hangover is dehydration and the toxic effects of alcohol on your body. Drinking too much of any type of alcohol, including gin, will still lead to a rough morning after. The best way to avoid a hangover is to drink in moderation or not at all.
If I want to cut back on gin, what's the best first step? A great first step is to simply become more aware of your current habits without any judgment. Try tracking when and how much you drink for a week, viewing it as just gathering information. This simple act of observation can give you a clearer picture of your patterns and help you decide what specific, small changes you want to make first.
The recent boom in craft and flavored gins has put the spirit back in the spotlight. With beautiful bottles and infusions ranging from rhubarb to rose petals, modern gin seems more approachable and fun than ever. This clever marketing can make it easy to forget that we're still talking about a high-proof spirit. The sweet flavors and colorful appearance can mask the potent alcohol content, making it easy to drink more than you intend. Before you pour another "pink G&T," it's worth asking, is gin good for you, or is it just clever packaging? Let's explore the health implications behind the trend.
Gin has a reputation as a tough, gritty drink. In 1984, George Orwell described the fictional “Victory Gin” in colorful terms (it’s fantasy, of course, but still sounds a lot like the real thing): “The Victory Gin was like nitric acid … in swallowing it one had the sensation of being hit on the back of the head with a rubber club. The next moment, however, the burning in his belly died down and the world began to look more cheerful.”
Now, while most gin drinkers probably wouldn’t describe their beverage of choice quite this harshly, real-life gin has a pretty serious dark side. So, what is gin, exactly? Where do the myths about gin’s supposed benefits come from? And what are gin’s disadvantages? Let’s find out more.
Gin is a distilled alcoholic drink — a “spirit” along the lines of whiskey, vodka, or rum. Like other spirits, it’s made through a two-step process of fermentation and distillation. Juniper berries used in the second step of gin production give it its unique trademark flavor.
The characteristic gin flavors — the juniper berry and other botanicals, such as coriander, licorice, or angelica root — are added during the distillation process. As American University chemistry professor Matt Hartings explained in Chemistry World, “These all combine to give a piney, woody, peppery, citrusy, woody, spicy and mentholy taste … How flavor molecules interact with your sensory system completely changes based on what they’re present with. Going from one gin to the next, you’re going to get those hints of juniper slightly differently depending on what other botanicals they’re mixed with.“
There are two primary methods of infusion: steeping and vapor infusion. The first is a lot like steeping tea: botanicals are soaked in the spirit for 24 hours to several days. Vapor infusion, on the other hand, happens when the botanicals are placed in a basket over the still, allowing alcohol vapors to pass through and soak in the characteristic flavors along the way.
Gin manufacturers famously keep their recipes close to the vest, and the exact ratios of botanicals are often a trade secret. A Chemistry World article explores the science of gin distillation and features an interview with Sam Carter, a senior brand ambassador for the Bombay Spirits Company. Carter writes, “Our master botanicalist is the only person that knows the recipe for all of our gins. He gets all the botanicals sent to him in Geneva, he then divides them into the right ratio and sends us the boxes of botanicals ready to load into the infuser basket.”
As a result, different types of gin have distinct flavor profiles. These are some of the big names:
As for the nutritional components of gin, 1 shot (1.5 fluid ounces) contains about 97 calories. Gin doesn’t contain any sugars, fats, proteins, or other nutrients, and the calories come from the ethanol itself. This is true for most gin varieties, although the situation changes if we’re talking about mixed drinks. In that case, the calorie count can skyrocket.
While gin itself is free of sugar, it’s rarely consumed straight. This is where things get tricky. The classic gin and tonic, for example, can be a hidden sugar bomb. A standard 12-ounce can of tonic water can contain over 30 grams of sugar — that’s almost as much as a can of soda! When you consider that many cocktails call for juices, syrups, and other sweet liqueurs, the sugar content can add up quickly. It’s often the mixers, not the gin, that turn a simple drink into a high-calorie, high-sugar beverage. Being aware of what you’re mixing with your spirit is a key part of practicing mindful drinking. If you’re looking to make a healthier choice, consider swapping regular tonic for diet tonic or soda water with a squeeze of fresh lime for flavor without the extra sugar.
There are many myths around gin, some centering on its supposed benefits. The idea of gin as a health beverage goes way back to the 18th century. That’s when it was first marketed as a health drink and embraced as a cheap alternative to brandy, becoming especially popular in England.
This marketing quickly exploded, leading to the notorious “gin craze” in England. According to Daniel Defoe, "the Distillers have found out a way to hit the palate of the Poor, by their new fashion'd compound Waters called Geneva, so that the common People seem not to value the French-brandy as usual, and even not to desire it."
According to a Historic UK article, “Mother’s Ruin,” “Much of the gin was drunk by women … children were neglected, daughters were sold into prostitution, and wet nurses gave gin to babies to quieten them … People would do anything to get gin … a cattle drover sold his eleven-year-old daughter to a trader for a gallon of gin, and a coachman pawned his wife for a quart bottle.”
The disarray led to the Gin Acts of 1736 and 1751, with William Hogarth's engraving Gin Lane capturing the spirit of the gin craze. In 1736, Bishop Thomas Wilson argued that gin produced a "drunken ungovernable set of people,” and it took years for the affected communities to regain a sense of normalcy.
While the gin craze is deep in the past, many myths about the “benefits of gin” persist to this day, in spite of the fact that they are dubious at best. Let’s explore some of the main ones to answer the question, “Is gin good for health?”
There has been an idea floating around that juniper berries give gin health-boosting benefits. And while juniper berries do indeed have antioxidant properties, those benefits are all but obliterated by the gin production process. So, while the sought-after botanical flavors remain in the mix, the health benefits are pretty much completely lost.
Another supposed “advantage” of gin is the idea that gin and tonic will prevent malaria. Rest assured this is not the case! The myth comes from the practice of giving gin and tonic to soldiers to make quinine treatment for malaria more palatable.
Finally, the idea that gin is a healthier option because it has fewer calories (64 per fluid ounce) might be true to some degree. However, once we add mixers, it becomes a whole different story. Even tonic water — in spite of masquerading as calorie-free seltzer and sounding almost like a health drink — is anything but low-cal. In fact, one can of tonic has about 124 calories, bringing a gin and tonic up to about 140 calories per serving. While that is on the low side, it’s definitely not calorie-free.
Let's tackle the claim that gin is a secret weapon for glowing skin and smooth digestion. This idea stems from the juniper berries used in its production, which contain antioxidants. Historically, people believed these botanicals could aid digestion and offer anti-aging effects. However, the reality is that alcohol itself works against these goals. Alcohol is a diuretic that dehydrates your skin, which can lead to dullness, dryness, and more prominent fine lines. It can also irritate the digestive system, often causing the exact bloating and discomfort it’s rumored to fix. Any potential benefit from the trace botanicals is completely negated by the negative impact of the alcohol.
Another common myth suggests gin has anti-inflammatory properties, once again crediting the juniper berries for their historical use in soothing ailments like joint pain. While juniper may have some anti-inflammatory qualities in its natural form, this doesn't translate to the finished spirit. In fact, alcohol has the opposite effect. Consistent alcohol consumption is a known contributor to chronic inflammation in the body, which is linked to numerous long-term health issues. Looking to an alcoholic beverage for anti-inflammatory benefits is counterproductive. You’re far better off eating antioxidant-rich foods, like actual berries, to fight inflammation.
With an alcohol content of 80 proof (40% alcohol by volume), gin is one of the stronger drinks out there. The effects of drinking too much gin are similar to those of overdoing any alcoholic beverage.
In the short term, drinking too much alcohol (including gin, which is particularly easy to overdo since its clear appearance and medicinal smell can make it seem like a health tonic) leads to a number of possible problems. Our cognitive abilities take a hit, and we are more likely to say or do something we regret later. We’re more prone to accidents and more likely to wake up with a nasty hangover. And if we really overdo it, we could end up with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and even alcohol poisoning.
In the long term, we’re looking at a number of possible health issues:
The crisp, botanical scent of gin can be misleading, making it seem lighter or even healthier than other spirits. However, its effects are just as potent. In the short term, drinking too much gin can quickly impair your judgment and cognitive function, which might lead you to say or do things you'll regret. It also increases your risk of accidents. The morning after often comes with a punishing hangover, and if you really overdo it, you could face more severe symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or even life-threatening alcohol poisoning. These immediate consequences are your body’s clear signal that it’s been overwhelmed.
When occasional gin nights become a regular habit, the risks extend far beyond a simple hangover. Consistent, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a wide range of serious health problems that develop over time. Your body has to work hard to process alcohol, and putting that strain on it repeatedly can cause lasting damage. We’re talking about significant issues affecting your most vital organs, from your liver and heart to your brain. Understanding these long-term risks is a crucial step in making more mindful decisions about your drinking habits and protecting your future health.
The long-term consequences of regular alcohol use are serious and can affect your entire body. Research shows that even light drinking can increase the risk of certain cancers, including breast cancer. Over time, alcohol’s impact on the cardiovascular system can raise blood pressure, contributing to a higher risk of stroke. Furthermore, the cognitive decline associated with chronic drinking can impair brain function and may even lead to permanent damage or increase the likelihood of developing dementia later in life. These risks highlight that no amount of alcohol is truly harmless.
Your liver is the primary organ responsible for metabolizing alcohol, and it can only handle so much at once. When you drink gin or any other alcoholic beverage excessively, you force your liver into overdrive. This can lead to inflammation and the buildup of fat, a condition known as fatty liver disease. If the habit continues, it can progress to more severe and irreversible conditions like alcoholic hepatitis or cirrhosis, where healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue. It’s important to remember that gin is no exception; it contributes to liver damage just like any other spirit.
Mixing alcohol with medication is a dangerous gamble. Gin, like all alcohol, can interact with a wide variety of prescription and over-the-counter drugs in harmful ways. In some cases, alcohol can render a medication less effective, preventing you from getting the treatment you need. In other instances, it can amplify the drug’s effects or create toxic new side effects, such as internal bleeding, breathing difficulties, or severe drowsiness. Before you have a drink, it’s essential to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about whether it’s safe with any medications you’re taking.
It’s a common question: Is gin “better” or “worse” for you than other types of alcohol? The straightforward answer is that, ounce for ounce, the ethanol in gin is just as harmful as the ethanol in vodka, whiskey, or any other spirit. The primary health risks of alcohol come from the alcohol itself, not necessarily the specific type of drink. However, different beverages do have unique properties that can influence how you feel after drinking them and their overall impact on your body. Factors like congeners, mixers, and nutrient content can create some differences, but it’s crucial to remember that moderation is the most important factor for your health, regardless of what’s in your glass.
You might have heard someone say that clear liquors like gin or vodka give them less of a hangover than darker spirits like whiskey, brandy, or dark rum. There’s some science to back this up. Darker liquors contain higher levels of congeners, which are chemical byproducts from the fermentation and aging process. These compounds contribute to the drink’s flavor and color but are also linked to more severe hangover symptoms. While choosing gin might lead to a slightly more bearable morning after for some, it’s important not to mistake this for a health benefit. The alcohol content is still the primary driver of long-term health risks.
When comparing gin to wine or beer, the differences become a bit more complex. Some drinks, particularly red wine, contain plant-based compounds called polyphenols, which have antioxidant properties. However, the potential benefits of these compounds are often negated by the negative effects of the alcohol they’re paired with. Gin, as a distilled spirit, contains virtually no nutrients, sugars, or fats—just calories from alcohol. While this might seem appealing if you’re counting calories, remember that mixers like tonic water or juice can quickly add a significant amount of sugar and calories back into your drink.
The strength of an alcoholic beverage is determined by its alcohol by volume (ABV). Most standard gins, vodkas, whiskeys, and rums are bottled at around 40% ABV, or 80 proof. While some modern craft gins are bottled at a higher proof, it’s not a universal rule for the category. The perception that gin is “stronger” often comes from its distinct, sharp botanical flavor, which can make its alcoholic punch feel more immediate. Ultimately, the most important thing is to check the label and be aware of the ABV to understand how much alcohol you’re actually consuming and how it might affect your blood alcohol content.
Recently, a resurgence in gin’s popularity has brought many new, flavored, “user-friendly” varieties on the market — some of them potentially more problematic because they are targeted largely at the younger crowd.
A 2018 article in The Guardian discussed berry-infused “pink gin” with British bartender Jack Wakelin, who complained about the sudden commercialization of the drink: “It’s gone bonkers … We get people in all the time asking: ‘What gins do you have?’ It’s an obsession.” The new gins — flavored with “everything from marshmallow root to cocoa” — are edging way too close to liqueur territory for the comfort of purists.
However, there are other concerns regarding “pink gin” and its flavored relatives. The image makeover makes them appear innocuous despite their very high alcohol content, which tends to get masked by the flavors. The problem is similar to one many people have pointed out regarding Smirnoff Ice, Mike’s Hard Lemonade, and the like: all of them look like sugary sodas, but in reality they’re very far from that (except for the sweeteners part, because these drinks do tend to be loaded with them).
The history of gin is filled with cautionary tales. The infamous "gin craze" of 18th-century England began when gin was promoted as a cheap, accessible alternative to brandy. As writer Daniel Defoe observed, distillers had found a way to "hit the palate of the Poor." This marketing success led to a public health crisis. The social decay was so profound, with stories of parents selling children for a bottle, that it prompted government action through the Gin Acts of 1736 and 1751. The era's grim reality was immortalized in William Hogarth's engraving, "Gin Lane." This wasn't gin's only dark chapter; during American Prohibition, the term "bathtub gin" emerged to describe dangerously concocted homemade spirits, further cementing gin's reputation as a drink with a complicated and sometimes hazardous past.
If you’re trying to watch your alcohol intake (or maybe even quit entirely), congrats! You’re making a great choice, and you’re on your way to being a healthier, happier version of yourself. In the meantime, here are some tips to make the journey a bit easier:
If you choose to drink gin, understanding the official guidelines for alcohol consumption is a great first step toward protecting your health. These aren't arbitrary rules; they're based on extensive research about how alcohol affects the body. Think of them as a framework to help you make informed decisions. Knowing the recommended limits can help you practice mindful drinking, stay aware of your intake, and reduce potential risks. It’s about empowering yourself with knowledge so you can prioritize your well-being, whether you're enjoying a drink at home or out with friends.
So, what does "moderate" drinking actually mean? According to health experts, it’s generally defined as about one standard drink per day for women and one to two for men. For a spirit like gin, a standard drink is a 1.5-ounce shot (at 80-proof, or 40% alcohol by volume). It’s easy to pour more than that, especially at home, so using a jigger to measure can be a real eye-opener. Sticking to this definition of moderation is a key part of reducing the health risks associated with alcohol and maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
Beyond daily moderation, it’s also helpful to think about weekly limits. Some guidelines suggest that women should aim for no more than two units of alcohol per day, and men no more than three. An alcohol "unit" can be a confusing measurement, but a single 1.5-ounce shot of gin is roughly 1.5 units. Keeping track of these units can feel like a bit of math, but it helps put your consumption into perspective over a longer period. This approach prevents a few "light" days from being offset by a weekend of heavy drinking, encouraging a more consistent and safer pattern.
It’s also important to give your body a break. Health professionals recommend having at least one or two alcohol-free, or "dry," days each week. This practice helps prevent your body from becoming accustomed to daily alcohol, which can be a slippery slope toward dependency. It also helps avoid binge drinking — consuming a large amount of alcohol in a short period. Taking intentional days off from drinking allows your body, especially your liver and brain, to rest and repair. You can even use a tool to track your sober days and see the benefits add up.
Moving beyond the official numbers, there are plenty of practical things you can do to make your gin consumption safer. It’s all about being more intentional with your choices, from what you mix your drink with to why you’re drinking in the first place. These small adjustments can make a big difference in your overall health and your relationship with alcohol. By being mindful of the details, you can enjoy a drink without compromising your well-being or letting it interfere with your goals.
A classic gin and tonic might seem like a light choice, but mixers can be deceptive. A standard 12-ounce can of tonic water can contain over 30 grams of sugar — that’s more than some sodas! All that added sugar means extra calories and can contribute to other health issues over time. If you enjoy a mixed drink, opt for sugar-free tonic, seltzer water with a squeeze of fresh lime, or other low-sugar alternatives. Being mindful of what’s in your glass beyond the gin itself is a simple but effective way to make your drink healthier.
Pay attention to your reasons for drinking. If you find yourself thinking, "I want to get drunk without gaining weight," or you consistently turn to gin to manage stress or difficult emotions, it might be a sign to look deeper. These thought patterns can indicate that your relationship with alcohol is becoming unhealthy. True well-being isn't just about physical health; it's also about your mental and emotional state. If this sounds familiar, know that support is available. Tools like the Reframe app are designed to help you understand these patterns and build healthier coping mechanisms.
In the end, it’s all about being mindful of our intentions and habits around alcohol. Is gin good for health? No, not really. Is it much worse than other types of alcohol? Not unless we go overboard — a caution that applies to most types of alcohol, especially hard liquors. It helps to approach the process of reexamining our relationship with alcohol with curiosity instead of judgment. After all, there’s so much to discover in the world beyond booze, and we’re here to cheer you on as you continue your journey.
Is "pink gin" or other flavored gin a better choice than classic gin? While the beautiful colors and sweet flavors make these gins seem more approachable, they aren't a healthier option. The added flavors and sugars can mask the high alcohol content, which makes it easy to drink more than you planned. The core ingredient is still a high-proof spirit, and the health risks associated with alcohol remain the same, regardless of the color or taste.
So, the botanicals in gin don't offer any health benefits at all? That's correct. While the plants used to flavor gin, like juniper berries, do have antioxidant properties in their natural state, these benefits are effectively eliminated during the high-heat distillation process. The botanicals are what give gin its signature taste and aroma, but unfortunately, none of their original nutritional value makes it into the final bottle.
I've heard gin is a "skinny" drink. Will switching to gin help me manage my weight? Gin itself contains no sugar, but it's almost always consumed with mixers that do. A classic gin and tonic can have as much sugar as a soda, thanks to the tonic water. While you can opt for sugar-free mixers, it's important to remember that alcohol itself contains calories that can interfere with weight management goals. Focusing on the mixer is a good start, but the alcohol itself is still a key factor.
Does choosing a clear spirit like gin really prevent a bad hangover? There is some truth to the idea that darker liquors, which contain more chemical compounds called congeners, can contribute to more severe hangovers. However, the primary cause of a hangover is dehydration and the toxic effects of alcohol on your body. Drinking too much of any type of alcohol, including gin, will still lead to a rough morning after. The best way to avoid a hangover is to drink in moderation or not at all.
If I want to cut back on gin, what's the best first step? A great first step is to simply become more aware of your current habits without any judgment. Try tracking when and how much you drink for a week, viewing it as just gathering information. This simple act of observation can give you a clearer picture of your patterns and help you decide what specific, small changes you want to make first.
Learn how to detox your body from alcohol with these 7 tasty liver detox drinks, and find out how to optimize your liver health!
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!
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.
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!
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 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:
Blend all the ingredients together well and serve while still warm.
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!
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!).
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.
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
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.
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.
A detox can help us keep our liver in tip-top shape.
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 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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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 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:
Blend all the ingredients together well and serve while still warm.
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!
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!).
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.
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
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.
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.
A detox can help us keep our liver in tip-top shape.
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 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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
