Does Drinking Water Make You LESS Drunk?
When it comes to social events, parties, or casual gatherings, having a few drinks is a common practice to unwind and have some fun. However, for many people, the question arises: does drinking water make you LESS drunk? In this article, we’ll dive into the facts and explore the correlation between drinking water and alcohol intoxication.
Direct Answer: Yes, Water Can Make You Less Drunk, But…
A Little Background on How Our Body Processes Alcohol
Before we dive into the main topic, it’s essential to understand how our body processes alcohol. When we consume alcohol, it enters the bloodstream and is carried to the liver for processing. The liver breaks down alcohol into a compound called acetaldehyde, which is then converted to acetate, a harmless substance. This process can take several hours, depending on the amount and type of alcohol consumed.
How Drinking Water Affects Blood Alcohol Concentration
Drinking water after consuming alcohol can affect the body’s ability to process it. Here’s why:
- Dilution: Water can dilute the concentration of alcohol in the bloodstream. When you drink water with alcohol, it can reduce the concentration of alcohol in the blood, making you feel less intoxicated.
- Slowing Down Absorption: Water can slow down the rate at which the body absorbs alcohol. This can give you a temporary feeling of being less drunk.
Key Factors to Consider
Here are some important factors to consider when evaluating the relationship between drinking water and intoxication:
- Amount of water consumed: Drinking a small amount of water with your first few drinks may not make a significant difference, but drinking larger amounts (8-10 glasses or more) can lead to a more noticeable effect.
- Type of water: Room temperature water appears to be more effective than cold or hot water in reducing alcohol’s effects.
- Time between drinking water and alcohol: If you drink water too frequently, it may not have a significant impact on your level of intoxication.
- Starting BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration): If you start drinking with a relatively low BAC, you may not experience as significant an effect from drinking water as someone who starts with a higher BAC.
The Science Behind the Claim
A study published in the Journal of Analytical Toxicology found that drinking water can reduce the peak BAC concentration by approximately 10-15%. Another study published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics discovered that drinking water after consuming alcohol can slow down the rate of alcohol elimination by up to 30%.
Conclusion
While drinking water can make you feel less drunk, it’s important to note that it’s not a foolproof solution to reduce the effects of alcohol. The reduction in intoxication is temporary and may not last long, and it’s essential to be responsible and consider the overall impact of alcohol consumption on your health and well-being.
Additional Tips
- Always drink responsibly and in moderation.
- Consider pacing yourself and spacing out drinks to avoid overconsumption.
- Choose water over other beverages, like sugary drinks or energy drinks, which can affect your overall health and well-being.
- Consider having a designated driver or using public transportation after a night out.
In conclusion, drinking water can indeed make you feel less drunk, but it’s crucial to understand the limitations and context. By being aware of the factors at play, you can make more informed decisions and prioritize your health and well-being.