Going to the bars on a weekend is a common outing for many college students. Hanging out with friends, catching the game, and meeting new people are things people often look forward to. The bars encourage a social environment, and a drink is a standard variable within this setting. Have you ever thought to compare your favorite drink with other alcoholic beverages?
What You Should Know:
- The type of drink is not what affects an individual, but rather the amount of alcohol in each drink.
- Percent alcohol content varies between different beverages:
- Serving of regular beer = 12 fluid oz. = 5% alcohol
- Serving of table wine = 5 fluid oz. = 12% alcohol
- Serving of hard liquor = 1.5 fluid oz. = 40% alcohol
- Alcohol affects men and women differently:
- Women tend to have a higher content of body fat and less body water. This leads to a higher concentration of alcohol in the blood in comparison to a man who has consumed the same amount.
- Women also have a smaller quantity of the dehydrogenase enzyme which breaks down alcohol in the stomach.
- Calories come from the alcohol in a beverage and many ingredients added to it, such as sweeteners, juices, or sodas.
Ways to Limit Your Spending and Consumption:
- When you go out to the bars, set a limit on how much you’re willing to spend for the evening. This will help save money and limit your alcohol consumption.
- Watch for happy hour pricing, coupon deals and special events at your favorite hangouts.
- Split a pitcher of beer with some friends! It not only saves money, but also helps control consumption.
What counts as one drink?
