Cutting Back On Drinking Before the New Year!

The holiday season is a time for celebration and joy, but it’s also important to be mindful of your alcohol consumption. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, alcohol’s effects begin quickly and can last longer than you might think.^. Reducing alcohol intake during the holiday season is crucial for maintaining both physical and mental well-being. Excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to weight gain, disrupt sleep patterns, and weaken the immune system, impacting overall health.

The period from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day is known for an increase in alcohol consumption and binge drinking, which can lead to a higher number of alcohol-related accidents. This is a significant law enforcement and public health problem, and the statistics and data paint a picture that isn’t very festive. The chances of being involved in an alcohol-related crash increase around holidays when social binge drinking occurs more frequently. During the holiday season, there are an estimated 25,000 injuries from alcohol-related crashes. In addition, alcohol can impair your judgment and add a tremendous amount of extra, empty calories at a time of year when we are eating more than usual.

We can take steps to reduce alcohol consumption over the holidays. With a little planning, we can make it happen. If you want to limit your alcohol this holiday season, determine your motivation. It always starts with our "why." Focus on the benefits it will bring to your overall well-being and how proud you'll feel for achieving your goal. Here are six simple steps we can take.

More Healthy Living Tips

1
Make a Plan
Begin by crafting a plan. Before each event, set a drinking limit for yourself and time to stop drinking, and stick to it. This can include the decision not to drink any alcohol at all. Make the food table your first stop, and stick to the protein and vegetables. When you do drink, stay aware of portion size. If you’re planning on more than a single glass of wine, punch, or nog, slow down the pace with a nonalcoholic drink (or two) before you refill.
2
Eat Before You Drink
Never drink on an empty stomach. Before heading into the festivities, have a meal, or at least a snack, and be sure to eat something during the event while you are drinking. Protein and fiber both help stabilize blood sugar and keep you feeling full.
3
Stay Hydrated
Alcohol is a diuretic that causes our bodies to lose water. It is easy to get dehydrated when drinking alcohol. Drinking water or other non-alcoholic beverages can help you stay hydrated and reduce your alcohol intake.
4
Designate a Driver
If you plan to drink, have a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service. When you are the designated driver, you can take advantage of the Hero Campaign Bars and Taverns. Participating local bars provide free soft drinks to the designated driver. See the list of participating taverns in our area.
5
Don't Succumb To Peer Pressure
It is not unusual for friends or others to notice if you are not drinking and ask why. Get your nonalcoholic drink served in a wine glass or a flute, or order a mocktail, and you can avoid uncomfortable conversations.
6
Plan Non-Alcohol Activities
Organize a game night, go ice skating or sledding, or take a winter hike. You'll be less likely to reach for a drink by keeping busy with fun and engaging activities.