Holiday Drinking Wellness Tips

Be Mindful of Holiday Alcohol Consumption

The holidays are a time for celebration with family and friends, but for many people that celebration includes alcohol. While alcohol can be enjoyed in moderation, over-drinking can have dangerous consequences. Here are some tips to help you celebrate safely this holiday season.

The Dangers of Over-Drinking During the Holidays

Holiday celebrations can quickly lead to dangerous consequences such as car accidents, alcohol poisoning, and health problems when alcohol is involved. Exceeding alcohol limits can lead to alcohol-related health issues such as liver disease and high blood pressure as well.

Alcohol can also negatively interact with certain medications, so it’s important to speak with your doctor to be sure you’re clear to drink in the first place.

How to Celebrate Safely

There are several things you can do to celebrate safely this holiday season. Make sure you drink plenty of water and eat before drinking alcohol, pace yourself by sipping drinks slowly, and avoid mixing alcohol with drugs or medication.

Responsible Drinking Habits

If you choose to drink alcohol during the holidays, it’s important to do so responsibly. That means not driving if you’ve been drinking, and not getting drunk enough to blackout. Remember to eat regularly throughout the day and opt for snacks high in protein, as they can slow alcohol absorption.

Did you know that for adult men and women, it is recommended to have no more than 4 drinks in a single day and no more than 14 drinks per week? Spacing out your drinks and alternating between water or juice can be another way to manage your drinking to be mindful of these serving sizes.

And lastly, make sure to have a plan for getting home safely whether it be a designated driver, public transportation, or calling a ride-share service.

Advice for Those Who Struggle With Alcohol Addiction

Even for those who don't have an alcohol dependency, it's easy to overindulge during holiday parties and gatherings. But for those who struggle with alcohol addiction, the holidays can be an even more difficult time to stay sober. Remember that just because others are drinking doesn’t mean you’re obligated to. You can even suggest to your host that your holiday party is a dry event with no drinks served, or choose activities that do not involve alcohol.

Inyo County Rural Health Clinic

Northern Inyo Healthcare District’s Rural Health Clinic is here to help keep your family happy and healthy through the holiday season. To schedule a flu shot appointment please call 760-873-2849.