Many college students look forward to turning 21 and celebrating their opportunity to drink for the first time. Young adults who are new to drinking may not fully understand all the ways alcohol can affect their state of being. Drinking excessively or going beyond your limits can be extremely dangerous for you and those around you. If you are above the age of 21, keep these tips for drinking responsibly in mind to have a fun and safe time in college.
Avoid Excessive Pre-Gaming
Pre-gaming refers to any alcohol consumed before going out to drink at a bar, club, or party. Many college students pre-game to save money and get intoxicated quicker. But showing up somewhere already tipsy or drunk can lower your inhibitions and lead to drinking more than you had anticipated. It’s also more difficult to pace your drinking if you’ve pre-gamed earlier in the night.
Don’t Drink on an Empty Stomach
A good tip for drinking responsibly in college is to eat before or as you’re drinking alcohol. Eating fatty or protein-filled foods will slow the absorption of alcohol into your bloodstream. You will feel less intoxicated and more aware of your surroundings. However, stay away from salty meals and snacks, as these can make you more dehydrated and more likely to drink faster.
Keep Track of Your Drinks
Keeping track of what you’re drinking and how much you’re drinking is key to making responsible decisions. A “standard drink” contains 14 grams of alcohol. This can look like a 12 oz can of light beer, a 5 oz glass of wine, or a mixed drink with 1.5 oz of liquor. Counting your drinks makes it easier to avoid reaching a 0.08 BAC and going beyond your limits.
Drink Water
Drinking water is important to do before, during, and after a night of drinking. Staying hydrated lessens the intoxicating effects of alcohol, just like eating a meal beforehand. Alternating between water and alcoholic drinks is also a great way to avoid hangovers, which can disrupt your day.
Have a Designated Driver
There’s no excuse to drive while intoxicated. Before going out, plan ahead with the people you’re meeting to decide who will be driving people home sober. Or you can order a ride home from a rideshare app at the end of the night. If you can’t safely get home from a bar or party, it’s a good sign not to go out tonight.
Stand Up for Yourself
Don’t let other people sway you to drink if you’re not interested. If you’ve decided to stop drinking alcohol for the night, don’t let others pressure you to continue drinking. Your health and personal boundaries are too important to ignore.
Drinking responsibly prevents college students from getting into dangerous situations or hurting the people around them. It’s also crucial for preserving one’s health and academic performance. Always drink in moderation to avoid the consequences of binge drinking and to stay out of trouble.
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