She Strengthens

Debunking the Myths of Drinking

When it comes to drinking, there are many misconceptions that can lead to negative consequences. From mixing energy drinks with alcohol to believing that darker alcohols are healthier, these myths can have a significant impact on our night out. Let’s separate fact from fiction and explore the truth behind these common drinking myths.

Myth-Busting 101

One of the most prevalent myths is that mixing energy drinks with alcohol makes you drunker. However, the caffeine in energy drinks doesn’t intensify drunkenness; it merely masks the sedative effects of alcohol, leading people to drink more than they should. In reality, energy drinks alter our perception of intoxication, but they have no physiological effect on how alcohol affects us.

Another myth is that the order in which we drink matters. Many believe that beer before liquor will make you sicker, while liquor before beer will keep you in the clear. But the truth is that the amount of alcohol we drink and the time we drink it in are more important than the type of drinks we consume or how we mix them. Drinking too much of any alcohol too quickly can make us sick, regardless of the order.

The Dark Side of Darker Alcohols

Darker alcohols, such as dark beers and wines, are often perceived as healthier due to their higher antioxidant content. However, they can also contain more congeners, toxic chemicals created during fermentation, which can worsen hangovers. In reality, darker alcohols may pack more nutritional value, but they’re not inherently healthier than their lighter counterparts.

The Age-Old Question: Is Older Wine Better?

We’ve all heard that older wine is better, but is it really? According to wine experts, it depends on the type of wine. Some wines are meant to be consumed within a year of production and don’t improve with time, while others are intended to be stored for a few years to reach their peak quality. Unfortunately, a wine that sits past its expiration date doesn’t get any more impressive with time; in fact, its antioxidant content might actually decrease.

Beer, Exercise, and Recovery

Many believe that beer is a good workout recovery drink due to its vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates. However, the benefits are minimal, and sports drinks containing sugars, salt, and potassium can rehydrate the body just as well without the negative side effects of alcohol. In reality, alcohol’s effects on the liver and pancreas inhibit the transport of digestive enzymes and essential nutrients, slowing muscle growth and repair.

Hangover Remedies and Myths

We’ve all heard that puking helps you sober up and prevents hangovers, but is it true? Unfortunately, alcohol’s absorption into the bloodstream begins almost immediately, so getting rid of a small amount via vomit won’t make much of a difference. If you’re at the puking point, there’s likely already too much alcohol in your system to escape a hangover the next day.

Taking Tylenol or Advil before heavy drinking is another myth that’s been debunked. These medications won’t help prevent hangovers, and combining them with alcohol can be dangerous. In fact, taking acetaminophen while drinking can lead to severe liver damage, and taking aspirin or NSAIDs can increase the risk of gastrointestinal troubles.

Eating Before Bed: A Hangover Cure?

Many of us have eaten before bed in the hopes of reducing hangover symptoms, but does it really work? Unfortunately, by the time that pizza hits the stomach, the alcohol has already been absorbed into the system. In fact, both alcohol and greasy food can contribute to acid reflux, making you feel even worse in the morning.

Light Beer: The Healthier Option?

Light beer is often seen as a healthier alternative due to its lower calorie and alcohol content. However, people may end up drinking more to compensate for the lower alcohol levels, ultimately consuming more calories than if they’d stuck with full-strength brews. Additionally, the number of calories in a product isn’t the sole determinant of how healthy it is.

Alcohol and Brain Cells

One of the most enduring myths is that alcohol kills brain cells. While it’s true that alcohol can impair thinking and damage dendrites, it doesn’t permanently destroy brain cells. However, long-term, excessive alcohol use can lead to lasting cognitive damage and memory problems.

The Morning After: Coffee and Cold Showers

Finally, many believe that coffee and a cold shower will sober you up. However, the human liver can process about one standard drink every hour, and coffee or a cold shower won’t speed up the process of eliminating the bad stuff from your system. Time is, unfortunately, the only cure.

The Bottom Line

Drinking can be a fun and social activity, but it’s essential to separate fact from fiction and understand the myths surrounding it. By being aware of these common misconceptions, we can make informed choices and enjoy our nights out while staying safe and healthy. Remember, moderation is key, and pacing is crucial to avoiding hangovers and other adverse effects.