How to Avoid Intoxication While Still Having Fun

Want to enjoy a night out without the dreaded hangover or losing control? It’s easier than you think. Below are real‑world tips you can start using right now, whether you’re at a bar, a party, or just sipping at home.

Know Your Limits and Pace Yourself

First off, understand how many drinks your body can handle. A good rule of thumb is one standard drink per hour. A standard drink is roughly 12 oz of beer, 5 oz of wine, or 1.5 oz of 40‑proof spirit. If you’re new to drinking, start with half that amount and see how you feel.

Set a timer on your phone or watch after each drink. When the timer goes off, take a break, drink water, or have a snack. This simple pause lets your liver catch up and keeps blood alcohol from spiking.

Choose Low‑ABV Options and Mocktails

Not every cocktail needs to be 40% alcohol. Look for drinks labeled “low‑ABV,” “session beer,” or “light wine.” These still taste great but contain less alcohol per ounce, giving you more control.

If you love fancy drinks, try mocktails. They’re crafted with fresh juices, herbs, and non‑alcoholic spirits, delivering the same flavor excitement without the buzz. Our own guide to mocktail trends 2024 shows you how to mix them like a pro.

Another trick is to dilute. Add a splash of soda water or tonic to your cocktail. You keep the flavor while cutting the alcohol content in half.

Stay hydrated. For every alcoholic drink, gulp a glass of water. This keeps you from feeling thirsty, reduces the need to keep drinking, and helps prevent a nasty hangover.

Eat before you drink. Protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs slow alcohol absorption. A handful of nuts, a cheese plate, or a small sandwich can make a huge difference.

Avoid binge‑drinking games. They push you to drink faster than your body can process, leading to rapid intoxication. Instead, focus on savoring each sip and chatting with friends.

If you’re at a tasting event, take note of the “spit” tradition. Spitting lets you taste without adding more alcohol to your system. It’s a pro’s secret for staying sharp while sampling many drinks.

Plan your exit. Decide in advance when you’ll stop drinking and stick to it. Set an alarm or ask a friend to give you a gentle reminder.

Finally, trust your instincts. If you start to feel light‑headed, nauseous, or overly relaxed, switch to water or a mocktail. It’s better to be safe than to regret a night that went too far.

By using these straightforward strategies, you can enjoy the social side of drinking without the negative side effects. Stay in control, have fun, and keep coming back for more tasty sips.