Holiday Parties: Drinking Wisely (or not at all) |
If you'd like to keep your socializing and celebrating high this holiday season – but your drinking low – follow these practical suggestions on how to drink wisely (or not at all):
Develop a responsible attitude toward drinking. This basically means not becoming drunk. Consider the rights of those who choose to abstain. You don't need to drink in order to have a good time, even though it is an accepted part of socializing in this country. If you don't want to drink alcohol, ask for a non-alcoholic beverage. You can be just as sociable with a ginger ale in your hand.
Measure your drinks. Five ounces of wine, 12 ounces of beer, or 1 1/2 ounces of spirits is the maximum that a 160-pound man should consume in an hour. A lighter person should drink less. If your drink somehow vanishes before the hour is up, switch to juice or a soft drink.
Avoid straight spirits and wine. Mix them with plain or carbonated water. If you are drinking a glass of good wine and don't want to dilute it, sip some water on the side. Make that wine last. Savor it. Additionally, don't accept unfamiliar drinks. They may contain more alcohol than you are used to drinking.
Never drink on an empty stomach. When drinking, eat starches, proteins, or fats to keep the alcohol from being absorbed too quickly.
Serve non-alcoholic drinks. When giving a party, be sure to serve non-alcoholic drinks and snacks. Don't "push" alcohol on your friends. Close the bar before the party ends. Serve coffee or tea before people leave. It does not help them to sober up, but the extra time they spend with you will. Don't let any intoxicated guests drive themselves home. Call a cab, take them home yourself, or ask them to stay overnight.
Never drive after you've been drinking...even after one drink. If you must drive, wait at least an hour before driving for each drink you've had (equivalent to one beer or one ounce of whiskey).
