Why And How Alcohol Causes Dehydration

2024 Author: Jasmine Walkman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 08:29

One of the most frequently asked questions is whether alcohol can dehydrate you? The short answer is yes! We will now explain why:

Alcohol is a diuretic, that is, it removes fluids from your blood through the kidney system much faster than other fluids.

So what can you do to make sure you don't get a hangover headache as a result of dehydration?

Here are some ways in which alcohol affects your body and several reasons why it can to dehydrate faster:

• Drink on an empty stomach - after drinking some fluid, including alcohol, it passes through your stomach lining and small intestine to reach your blood;

• If you drink on an empty stomach, alcohol can reach your bloodstream in minutes. But if you drink water or eat while consuming alcoholic beverages, this process will slow down;

• Alcohol begins to build up in your blood - once it enters your bloodstream, alcohol can reach all parts of your body. This involves the brain, which impairs your judgment. Alcohol can even get into your lungs. That is why dredgers are used when checking drivers;

• Alcohol is processed slowly by the body - your metabolism can turn some of the components of alcohol into nutrients and energy;

• Alcohol is processed in the liver and begins to act as a diuretic - when the liver processes enzymes, the liver turns into acetaldehyde. This common substance can become toxic at high doses. In order for it to break down and get out of the body, your liver does most of its processing. Alcohol reduces vasopressin, the antidiuretic hormone. The action of suppression of this hormone exacerbates the diuretic effect and leads to dehydration.

Are muscles or skin dehydrated?

Have you ever wondered what happens to your body when you are dehydrated as a result of alcohol intake? Here is a brief overview of what is happening:

• You may develop acne due to changes in hormone levels;

• Your muscles may begin to lose weight as a result of frequent alcohol consumption;

• Your liver may be damaged due to the accumulation of excessive amounts of fat and protein. Liver disease such as cirrhosis can occur;

• Your kidneys can be damaged by high blood pressure and toxins as they process alcohol in the urine;

• Your brain may lose some of its basic cognitive functions;

What to do if you are dehydrated?

• Eat food. This can raise your blood sugar level a bit, it can reduce the pain and discomfort of a hangover. Choose protein-rich foods such as eggs, nuts and spinach;

• Drink sports drinks - they can help you rehydrate faster than plain water;

• Take a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. This will limit the production of enzymes and help reduce headaches;

• Exercise - this will boost your metabolism and help your body get rid of alcohol faster;

• Get some sleep, let your body rest;

• Do not drink alcohol the next morning;

• Drink tea or coffee. They can help you wake up, but be sure to drink plenty of water as they are both diuretics.

How to prevent dehydration

Before you go out for a drink with friends, here are some tips on how to prevent dehydration if you are going to drink alcohol:

• Eat foods rich in vitamins. Eating healthy foods can help balance the vitamins you would lose by drinking alcohol;

• Drink plenty of water. Drink one glass of water for each drink. Water will help you stay hydrated;

• Stick to drinks with lighter colors. Darker drinks such as whiskey and brandy contain large amounts of congeners such as tannins and acetaldehyde. Congeners can dehydrate you faster and make your hangover unbearable;

• Know your body. Everyone processes alcohol differently. Therefore, when you feel dizzy, replace alcohol with water;

• Drink slowly.

In conclusion:

For to prevent dehydration, pay attention to how your body reacts to alcohol. Some people tolerate a drink or two after eating. Others may begin to feel the effect of the first drink. So follow the above rules to keep your body hydrated and to avoid a bad hangover.