Does Mixing Alcohol Really Matter? Separating Fact From Fiction on Hangovers and Drink Order

The age-old saying, "Beer before liquor, never been sicker; liquor before beer, you're in the clear," attempts to offer a simple rule for avoiding a hangover. But does the order in which you consume alcoholic beverages truly impact how you feel the next day? The answer, according to experts, is more nuanced than the rhyme suggests.

The primary concern when mixing drinks is the increased risk of overconsumption. Consuming a variety of alcoholic beverages can easily lead to drinking too much, as it becomes harder to keep track of the total alcohol intake. Our bodies process alcohol through the liver, and the speed of this process is key. Mixing beer and liquor can cloud judgment, making it easier to exceed your limits and potentially feel unwell.

Drinking liquor first might lead to a quicker onset of effects due to its higher alcohol concentration. Conversely, starting with beer could impair judgment, causing individuals to drink more liquor than intended, particularly in social settings. Ultimately, the order of consumption is less significant than the overall quantity of alcohol consumed within a short timeframe. Responsible drinking involves monitoring intake, pacing oneself, and prioritizing safety, regardless of the specific drinks involved.

Does Your Drinking Order Affect Hangovers?

According to MedicalNewsToday, the order in which you consume different types of alcohol, such as beer and liquor, doesn't significantly impact hangover severity. Instead, the amount of alcohol consumed, the type of drink, dehydration, sleep disruption, and other factors play a bigger role in determining hangover symptoms.

Certain compounds found in alcoholic beverages can influence the severity of hangover symptoms. Dark spirits, for example, contain higher levels of congeners, which can exacerbate hangovers. Additionally, preservatives like sulfites found in some wines may trigger headaches in susceptible individuals.

Side Effects of Consuming Alcohol

According to Healthline, the side effects of consuming alcohol include:

• Relaxation or drowsiness
• Euphoria or giddiness
• Mood changes
• Lowered inhibitions
• Impulsive behavior
• Slurred speech
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Headaches
• Altered perception
• Loss of coordination
• Impaired focus or decision-making
• Loss of consciousness or memory gaps

Long-Term Consequences of Alcohol Misuse

According to MedicalNewsToday, long-term alcohol misuse is associated with the following health problems:

• Liver disease
• Stomach ulcers
• Cancer
• Pancreatitis
• Brain and nerve damage
• Mental health problems such as anxiety or depression
• Cardiomyopathy, or damage to the heart muscle
• Other cardiovascular problems
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Immune system dysfunction
• Osteoporosis
• Vitamin deficiencies

Tips for Managing Alcohol Consumption

According to MedicalNewsToday, the following tips can help manage alcohol consumption:

• Monitor intake: Be aware of the total alcohol consumed, regardless of the type. Decide on a drink limit before starting and stick to it. Aim for one drink per hour.
• Stay hydrated: Drink water alongside alcohol to minimise dehydration. Drink water before, during, and after alcohol consumption.
• Avoid rounds: Participating in rounds can make it harder to control your drinking pace and stick to moderation.
• Choose your drinks wisely: Focus on the overall alcohol content rather than the type of drink, and opt for lower-alcohol options to potentially minimize hangover risks.
• Get enough sleep: Alcohol can mess with your sleep, so prioritizing rest after drinking can help minimize grogginess and fatigue the next day.