Healthy Lifestyles

Alcoholic drinks

It is common for Chinese to drink alcohol during festivals and celebrations. But it is important to know the health effects of alcohol and the concentration of alcohol, (i.e. ethanol) in different kinds of alcoholic drinks.

Acute alcohol intoxication (drunkenness)

After drinking, alcohol is absorbed in the stomach and small intestine. It enters the blood and is detoxified in the liver. The effect of alcohol on the body depends on the concentration of alcohol in the blood, which is affected by different factors: the concentration of alcohol, the amount taken, the speed of drinking, whether the stomach is empty while drinking, the body weight and liver function. All kinds of alcoholic drinks including beer, wine and Chinese wines can lead to alcohol intoxication, i.e. getting drunk.

Alcoholism

Drunkenness is an unpleasant and ugly experience. Drunk driving is illegal. Continuous heavy drinking can cause damage to the liver and the brain, leading to cirrhosis and encephalopathy. If there is physical and psychological dependence to alcohol, it is called alcoholism, which has tremendous adverse effects on physical, psychological and social health.

Healthy drinking

It has been said that a small amount of alcohol is good for the heart. Drinking alcohol is also part of social life. However, we should never become slave to alcohol. Here is our advice:

1. Do not drink alcohol on an empty stomach.

2. Do not drive after drinking alcohol. It is illegal!

3. Never force others to drink. It is dangerous!

4. If you have liver disease, peptic ulcer or heart disease, consult your doctor.

5. Do not drink alcohol while taking drugs.

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