Post by Kirsty on Dec 14, 2010 12:01:45 GMT
AS THE party season gets into full swing, health experts are encouraging people in the region to think before they drink.
During the Christmas period it’s traditional to let the alcohol flow and many people can end up suffering the after effects of one too many drinks.
But it is possible to get into the Christmas spirit responsibly and avoid a nasty hangover by following some simple tips:
Don't drink on an empty stomach.
Slow down dehydration by making sure every other drink is a glass of water or juice.
Opt out of rounds and drink at your own pace.
Try cutting down with a friend, as you'll be more likely to stick to it with moral support.
Pace yourself by taking small sips.
Don’t drink dark-coloured drinks if you’re sensitive to them. They contain natural chemicals that can make a hangover worse.
Drink a pint of water before you go to sleep.
NHS Yorkshire regional director of public health, Paul Johnstone, said: “After two or three drinks your body is already starting to dehydrate and gear up towards a hangover.
“People might not realise that for men, binge drinking is classed as drinking eight units in one session and for women it’s six.
“With the average pint of beer or 250ml glass of wine containing around three units of alcohol, two or three drinks can soon add up to a binge.
“A hangover is not the only reason to think before you drink this Christmas—people who have drunk too much are more likely to fall and hurt themselves or get injured in fights they would not ordinarily be involved in.
“Traditionally accident and emergency departments across the region are put under pressure at this time of year treating people who have over-indulged at the Christmas party.
“By drinking in moderation you are more likely to have an enjoyable Christmas and New Year period, without missing a chunk of it because of a hangover, or an unnecessary spell in hospital.”
During the Christmas period it’s traditional to let the alcohol flow and many people can end up suffering the after effects of one too many drinks.
But it is possible to get into the Christmas spirit responsibly and avoid a nasty hangover by following some simple tips:
Don't drink on an empty stomach.
Slow down dehydration by making sure every other drink is a glass of water or juice.
Opt out of rounds and drink at your own pace.
Try cutting down with a friend, as you'll be more likely to stick to it with moral support.
Pace yourself by taking small sips.
Don’t drink dark-coloured drinks if you’re sensitive to them. They contain natural chemicals that can make a hangover worse.
Drink a pint of water before you go to sleep.
NHS Yorkshire regional director of public health, Paul Johnstone, said: “After two or three drinks your body is already starting to dehydrate and gear up towards a hangover.
“People might not realise that for men, binge drinking is classed as drinking eight units in one session and for women it’s six.
“With the average pint of beer or 250ml glass of wine containing around three units of alcohol, two or three drinks can soon add up to a binge.
“A hangover is not the only reason to think before you drink this Christmas—people who have drunk too much are more likely to fall and hurt themselves or get injured in fights they would not ordinarily be involved in.
“Traditionally accident and emergency departments across the region are put under pressure at this time of year treating people who have over-indulged at the Christmas party.
“By drinking in moderation you are more likely to have an enjoyable Christmas and New Year period, without missing a chunk of it because of a hangover, or an unnecessary spell in hospital.”