Drinking over the holidays: What you can do to stay safe

Excess is the operative word during the holidays. While too much food can certainly cause problems, too much alcohol can be deadly.

“Holiday accidents are totally preventable,” says Dr. Gayle Randall, head of medical services at Malibu’s Passages Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center. “Two to three times more people die in accidents during the holidays, and it’s due to alcohol.”

Some people are more vulnerable to alcohol abuse at this time of year. “People with emotional or drinking problems who can’t self-regulate are more at risk,” she says. If one drink leads to another and another and you spin out of control, Dr. Randall says, “You have a drinking problem.”

Everyone is at risk from physical damage after excessive drinking. Holistic life coach Kendra Strasburg (www.hangovercoach.com) advises individuals and groups, including people working in the alcohol industry, on how to protect their bodies against alcohol damage. If abstinence is not possible, then it’s key to be aware of drinking patterns and be prepared.

“I highly recommend looking at your schedule each week and trying to make a plan,” says Strasburg. “Just how many drinks do you want to consume that week? When you have a plan, find someone to hold you accountable. Tell your spouse or best friend what you’re going to do. You’ll be more successful.”

Dr. Gayle Randall agrees and adds,  “If you’re hosting a party, have a list of cab numbers and watch your guests. Have the spare bed made up just in case. Never let anyone drive home drunk.”

Strasburg’s tips to lessen the impact

Drink a lot of water — and an extra glass between each cocktail consumed. 
   
Take a spoonful of olive oil straight up before going out. It slows down the time it takes for alcohol to pass through the stomach lining and into the bloodstream.