This is Alla Korolevska – a highly qualified doctor, surgeon-endoscopist, and medical science candidate. I’m sincerely happy to welcome you to my channel “Medicine in the Patient’s Language.”
The Christmas and New Year holidays are in full swing, and with them – the traditional festive gatherings. As a doctor and just a person, I understand perfectly that these events rarely happen without alcohol. But the question arises: which alcohol is better to choose and how can we minimize the harm from consuming it?
As a doctor, I must emphasize: alcohol is harmful to your health. I do not recommend consuming it and encourage you to always consult a doctor. However, the reality is that many seek medical help only after the holidays. That’s why, in this episode of the podcast “103 Questions for a Doctor,” we’ll discuss how to prepare your body for a celebration to minimize the negative effects.
So, if you’ve already decided to consume alcohol, here are some tips:
Tip #1. Get some backup
Arrange in advance with a friend to help you if necessary: keep track of how much you drink, take you home, or even call an ambulance. This is especially important if you’ve had issues with intoxication or hangovers in the past.
Tip #2. Prepare your body with vitamins
Start taking vitamins in advance that will help reduce the toxic effects of alcohol.
- Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): take 500 mg twice a day after meals. It’s a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from the impact of alcohol.
- B vitamins (especially B1 – thiamine): they support the nervous system, reduce stress impact, and help the body cope with alcohol.
Tip #3. Use amber acid
This substance helps your body eliminate toxins more quickly, neutralizes free radicals, and improves your well-being. Start taking amber acid two days before the feast (1-2 tablets during meals, 2-3 times a day). It’s also found in foods like apples, cherries, and Borodino bread.
Tip #4. Have a snack before the feast
Never consume alcohol on an empty stomach! Food will slow down alcohol absorption and reduce the risk of rapid intoxication.
Tip #5. “Vaccinate” your liver
Two hours before the feast, drink a small amount of alcohol (for example, half a glass of wine). This will help your liver activate the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase, which is involved in alcohol breakdown.
Tip #6. Drink fluids in advance
Drink a cup of sweet tea, juice, or pickle juice before the feast. This will help prevent dehydration, which alcohol causes.
Finally
I remind you that consuming alcohol without health consequences is a myth. Even small amounts can negatively affect your body, especially if you have chronic diseases. So, choose alcohol responsibly, monitor your health, and consult with your doctor.
If you have your own tips, share them in the comments. Like this video, subscribe to my channel, and stay healthy!
In the next episode, we’ll discuss how to behave during the feast to minimize health risks. This was Alla Korolevska with my podcast “103 Questions for a Doctor.”
Wishing you a joyful holiday season, peace, and victory!