Contrary to what your friends tell you, there is no effective remedy for curing your hangover. No matter how much water you manage to guzzle down in the brief window before and after your wild night out, no one is immune to the physiological and psychology effects following the consumption of ethanol, according to a study by Canadian and Dutch scientists. The research, released on Friday, reveals that the key to preventing a hangover all boils down to one magical formula: drink less.
WAIT, THERE’S NO SECRET REMEDY FOR CURING HANGOVERS?
It’s common to take pride in how much alcohol you can effectively consume. In fact, 25% to 35% of the drinking population actually claims to be immune to hangovers, according to Mashable. In an attempt to give credence to this statistic, researchers surveyed 789 Canadian students about their drinking habits, inquiring about the number of drinks they consumed, the time frame of their consumption, and the severity of their consequent hangovers.
WHAT DO THE RESULTS REVEAL?
As part of the study, researchers calculated the estimated Blood Alcohol Concentrations of the student participants. According to the results, 79 percent of people who do not experience hangovers had estimated blood alcohol levels of less than 0.10 percent.
“The majority of those who in fact reported never having a hangover tended to drink less, perhaps less than they themselves thought would lead to a hangover,” said lead author Dr. Joris Verster of Utrecht University.
Eating and drinking water after alcohol consumption also doesn’t seem to play significant role in whether or not an individual experiences a hangover the following day. Out of the 54.4 percent of students who did eat or drink, only a few noted a slight improvement in how they felt, but the numbers are not significant enough to conclude anything.
While college students may refuse to accept the fact, according to Dr. Michael Bloomfield of University College, the best remedy and preventive measure is obvious:
“Whilst further research is needed, this new research tells us that the answer is simple – ‘drink less.”
If you fancy yourself one too many drinks, the Pavlok might help you refrain:
A new study has found that even just one drink a day may increase a woman’s breast cancer risk. But does this mean that even light to moderate drinkers should set the mug of beer, glass of wine, or shot of whiskey aside for a better health outlook?
Study Says Breast Cancer Risk Increases When Women Drink Even Moderately
Are the sexes really equal? When it comes to light to moderate drinking of alcohol, it appears that women have an increased risk of cancers, though men don’t.
These findings are according to a new study published in the British Medical Journal that reviewed two prospective cohort studies that analyzed approximately 88,000 women and 47,000 men.
Women who drank even just one alcoholic beverage a day had a 13 percent increase in cancer risk, most notably breast cancer, than women who didn’t drink at all.
This means even women who are following the CDC recommendations for alcohol intake may still be putting themselves at risk for developing cancer.
Drinking Increases Cancer Risk For Women, But Not For Men
The research found that when men consumed their daily intake (up to two drinks), they also had a higher risk of cancers; however, it was only when those men were smokers. In contrast, women who never smoked as well as smoking women had the increased breast cancer risk related to drinking.
While the research did find women’s risk to increase for a number of cancers, the most prevalent cancer in light to moderate alcohol drinkers was breast cancer. Interestingly enough, just one standard drink (a small glass of wine or a bottle of beer) increased the risk, though no associations were found between much heavier drinking and breast cancer risk.
The research authors recommended women not exceed one drink a day in order to keep their cancer risk as low as possible.
Breast Cancer Risks May Mean Women Should Cut Out Alcohol Completely
The study followed the participants for nearly 30 years with health surveys conducted every few years by the Harvard School of Public Health and the Brigham and Women’s Hospital. They also took into account other risk factors for cancer, including age, ethnicity, family history, smoking, body mass index, and physical activity.
Smokers, a family history of cancer, obesity or increased BMI and lack of physical activity all put the drinker at higher risk.
Though the recommendations should be fine for most people, the study authors as well as experts may encourage high-risk individuals to reconsider their alcohol intake or even abstain completely if possible.
Unfortunately, women have an increased risk for breast cancer even with moderate alcohol consumption, so it’s highly recommended to follow the guidelines as much as possible to ensure optimal health.
Whether you think success is an the individualist’s carrot to enjoy after a lifetime of thoughtful adaptation to an increasingly capricious market, or a fictitious stick specifically designed to drive you absolutely mad, heed this – if you’ve achieved equity, had a family (or perhaps chosen not to), and are basically capable of being a healthy, active and sociable fifty-something or older, it may be time for you to stop drinking, or perhaps ease off the drinks, per de rigueur de la classe.
STOP DRINKING? au CONTRAIRE MON CAPITAN
In a statistical study receiving 9,000 responses, researchers have concluded that over-drinking is a “middle class phenomenon,” that is possibly a major strand of social dissonance, causing unnecessary health and social destitution to an extent that really isn’t emotionally or psychologically necessary for an older person who’s already flourished.
To be more specific the study found that men in their early 60s had a higher rate of heavy drinking than all other ages over fifty. Conversely, instead of a latent peak, women’s risk for heavy drinking fell proportionately with age. This isn’t to imply that women *get it* earlier (because somehow, we already knew that).
WHY SHOULD THE SOON-TO-BE-AGED STOP DRINKING?
From the researchers’ study, it appears that the present’s golden-age population may be drinking more frequently, and in heavier doses than they have since they first became acquainted with drinking in college.
Additionally, greater income increases the chances for women over fifty to drink more. However, smoking, higher education diplomas, and fair health each significantly increase the risk of heavy drinking, for both the sexes.
WHY DO MEN HAVE IT EASIER?
When it comes to the risk of drinking, it actually doesn’t. Women’s drinking habits seem unaffected by the status of domestic partnership, but men who live alone are more likely to drink heavily, especially if they’re divorced or separated, especially if they’re caucasian.
MATERNAL INSTINCTS ARE A GOOD THING
Women responsible for others’ care tend to take care of themselves too, in this respect, lowering their likelihood to drink dangerously. In England, though, the researchers declared this phenomenon of increased likelihood for heavy drinking to be more of a “middle class phenomenon,” and so presumably something the fifty-somethings and older of the upper class does not have to be susceptible to. People over fifty in good health, with more income, higher educational diplomas and a generally more active social life are more likely to overdrink than simply stop drinking.
Researchers concluded that this will to alcoholism among those men and women over fifty is something associated with affluence, and the coveted “successful” aging process.
can you burn fat while doing nothing? find out in our review of thin ice weight loss apparel.
You have probably heard the wonderful remarks presidential candidate Donald Trump made about Mexico and its people these past weeks. The first thing that comes to my mind is that The Donald most probably doesn’t have any Mexican friends. As a Mexican myself, I can share a little bit of our culture.
Mexican culture is like many other latin cultures
Mexicans, similar to other Latin cultures tend to be warm and friendly. We are noted for partying and enjoying quality time with friends and family. Mexas as we call ourselves tend to care for friends and loved ones like nobody else and will welcome you into our homes from day one.
10 Reasons Why:
1)Whenever you see your friends you will be filled with kisses and hugs. It doesn’t matter if its the first time you meet them, you will have to kiss them hello and goodbye. Having a Mexican friends means you will have a loving and affectionate friend close to you.
2) Are you looking for someone who loves going out and having a good time? A Mexican friend will always say yes whenever you invite one to any type of social event. Be prepared when your friend arrives to the party because they will probably bring a big crowd of friends promising an epic night.
4) If you are in need for some quality time with family, a Mexican friend will always invite you to hang out with their family and you will become part of them.
5) Need help to get a job interview or information on a girl you want to date? A Mexican friend will always be there to help you and make it happen. It doesn’t matter if they have to call the sister of the ex-boyfriend of their cousin, they will help you out.
6) Need a friend who invites and welcomes you into their home all the time? Mexicans will always welcome you to their home by saying, “mi casa es tu casa” or my house is your house.
7) Need someone to teach you bad words in Spanish? Mexicans will teach you and explain what each curse word means and how to use them.
8) A Mexican friend will always invite you to drink tequila or mezcal with them.
9) We will teach you basic Spanish and you will become a pro over the years.
10) Your friendship will last a lifetime. It doesn’t matter if you see each other every year or so, you will stay friends forever and will have someone to trust and rely no matter what.
Of course, the list goes on…
Although these are some of the main reasons why you should have a Mexican friend there are many other reasons that explain our culture and behavior. Feel free to share your reasons and experiences on why having a Mexican friend is beneficial. For more information and tips on traveling and food in Mexico and abroad visit michelleonbell.com.
Sick of your phone leaving you with no battery after a long conversation? Try the Lepow POKI battery charger!
When you go out to a bar, especially if you are limited on cash, the first drink you would normally choose is beer. Well, I certainly do anyway. Normally you are able to muster up the change in your coin purse and grab yourself a nice cold pint after work. The only downside? Beer is unhealthy, right? Full of empty calories and carbohydrates, the beer belly that runs in your family is always at the back of your mind after your second or third round. Luckily for us, this guilt needn’t be. Studies have shown that there are many reasons why we actually SHOULD keep buying pints. Read on to find out the benefits of drinking beer. NB: This is all to be in moderation, please be drink-aware before and after this article.
It Keeps Your Kidneys Healthy
A Finnish study has shown that one of the benefits to drinking beer is that it helps reduce the risk of kidney stones by 40%.
It Combats Stress
Maybe a slightly obvious answer for many alcoholic substances, but researchers at the University of Montreal found that two glasses of beer a day can relieve work related stress and anxiety. Who’s joining me at the pub later?
Beer Can Smooth Your Skin
Beer contains vitamins that have a positive impact on women’s skin pigmentation, leaving them with smoother complexions.
It Contains Vital Vitamins
A Dutch study found that those who drink beer regularly had a higher percent of vitamin B6. B6 is vital for giving you energy and maintaining healthy skin, hair and eyes.
Beer Can Improve Your Memory
As we get older, our memories deceive us. In my case, it happens far too often. According to research, one of the benefits of drinking beer is that you are far less likely to suffer from memory loss, such as Dementia in later years.
While drinking beer is obviously great in moderation, these benefits will not occur if you drink five pints every night. In fact, it will be likely to cause far more damage than good. However, with the news that beer – the cheapest, ‘most for your money’ beverage is in fact oozing with health benefits, it does cause for a good excuse for a celebratory drink. As you read this, I will be saying ‘cheers’ with my pint. Happy, responsible, healthy drinking, y’all.
Make your commute less of a drag with the SwageU wireless bluetooth headphones.
The Chinese banquette. If you come to China on business, it’s likely inevitable. When you walk through the door, you’re just as much entering a potential cultural minefield as you are a dining hall. And you’re probably going to be navigating that minefield under the influence, perhaps heavily so. Consider this your handy field guide containing the seven most important cultural niceties to be aware when imbibing amongst your Chinese friends and colleagues. Trust me, there are more – always more – but these are the crucial things that will earn you a lot of respect as a foreign guest if you adhere to them. Brush up on your Chinese drinking etiquette…
1) Seating Arrangement
It begins before you even sit down. The most important person there will take a seat at the head of the table opposite the door. The archaic reason for this is because it is the safest position in the room as the head honcho has a clear view of whoever enters. Today, simply so that he won’t be disturbed by the servers coming and going. The guest of honor (possibly you) will usually sit beside the boss. From there, guests of descending importance are seated on each side of the table until you get to the shitty seat, the seat with the back to the door. Several people are eligible for this seat. Sometimes a supporting host will sit here. If the host has a well-known rival (or enemy), they will sit there. Sometimes people will fight over this seat to be the guy that simply sits there so nobody else has to, hence giving respect and gaining some face.
2) The Toast
Toasts are an important and frequent component of any Chinese banquet. Just as your glass is the vessel for transporting baijiu to your unsuspecting body, a good toast is the vessel that carries good will, respect and face to your host. Speaking of, the main man will make the first toast, mainly addressing the whole table but will probably spend some attention on the guest. If the host is toasting with baijiu – a high-proof and usually foul rice liquor – you should do the same. It is impolite, for example, to drink beer when someone is extending a glass of the hard stuff. Next, the host may toast individuals or groups by level of importance. Once this is done, everyone else will make their own toasts to the host, the guest and everyone else – you guessed it – by level of importance. It is not uncommon for people to leave their seats for this. When someone is toasting you or vice-versa, you should always maintain eye contact, otherwise you will be perceived as uninterested and rude.
3) Ganbei
Maybe you’ve heard that “ganbei” is Mandarin for “cheers”. That’s correct, sort of. It is very, VERY important that you plan carefully before taking your first drink. As the guest, what you drink and how much you consume on the first toast is being duly noted by most everyone around you. You are effectively setting the tone for the evening, and everyone will try to match the amount you drink so as to both show respect and maintain adequate face levels. Keeping that in mind, if you say “Ganbei!” – which literally means “dry glass” – and down an entire glass of baijiu, you’ll be setting yourself up for an interesting evening. Read: waking up in the floor beside your bed completely naked with no recollection of how you got there.
4) Clinking Glasses
This is important! When you reach your glass in for a cheers, don’t be alarmed when everyone fights to make sure their glass is not above any other glass. Cheersing someone below the rim of their glass is a sign of giving respect. I’m sure a lot of people would disagree, but as a foreign guest, I think making this gesture toward your host or just letting them win are both okay. They will be thrilled that you even know about this cultural quirk. The best option is having a little battle and letting them win in the end. If you know someone is a leader in some way, it’s best to pay tribute. If you’re too far away to actually clink glasses, it is acceptable to tap the bottom of your glass on the glass lazy Susan (rotating glass disc) commonly at the center of the table.
5) Lighting Cigarettes
Almost every gesture on a Chinese night out is interwoven with face, if you haven’t guessed already. Such is with having a smoke. It’s simple; you and your buddies take out your cigs (likely already provided at your table, along with several bottles of baijiu) and light up. Cultural faux pa alert! You’re in China buddy, and in China, you light the cigarette of your superior, elder, etc before lighting your own. Most of the time, they will offer to light yours after lighting theirs. And if you were wondering, yes, there will be so much smoking indoors that you’ll think you’re at a beekeeping convention and no one will think anything of it (except you, probably).
6) Talking to Someone’s S.O.
So you meet someone in a bar back in the States and strike up an interesting conversation. Their significant other happens to be there, so naturally you try to include them in the conversation as well. I’m going to stop trying to avoid pronouns now because the simple fact of the matter is that – when it comes to China – I’m talking about girlfriends and wives. It is considered very rude to talk to someone else’s wife unless explicitly invited to. You’ll likely be introduced to her and not speak another word the whole evening. Of course, the average Westerner will think this is repressive behavior because, well, it kind of is. But I’ve seen fights nearly break out over someone talking to a Chinese guy’s girlfriend, so it’s better to take off the social justice warrior cape for the evening if you don’t fancy fisticuffs.
7) Paying the Bill
In China, going Dutch is unheard of. An individual always covers the bill for the other guests and this is actually considered an honor. An honor to be fought over, sometimes very literally. If this is a large business banquette hall, the meal is likely comped by someone’s company. If you’re in a restaurant, however, you should definitely make an offer to pay although, as a guest, you won’t be expected to. If the meal is expensive, maybe offer two or three times. Several others will probably offer as well, and you might catch an entertaining show of several tactics, such as claiming to need the toilet and sneaking over to pay, shoving money in each other’s faces and literally wrestling to pay the bill. The best thing to do in the situation is to give in to the most important guy there and let him pay so that he can achieve maximum face levels.
“But, I don’t drink…”
Too bad, so sad, somebody call the wammmmmmbulance. You do tonight. If you don’t drink at a Chinese banquette, then you’re going to be pretty much viewed as an outcast. Teetotalers are seen as boring, weird and perhaps untrustworthy. Pretty much the way I view them. If you’re there on business, trying to secure some type of deal or something, then you stand a very low chance of making that happen if you don’t pick up a glass. So, after the complicated spiderweb of drinking etiquette that I’ve woven above, here is the last very simple rule: YOU. MUST. DRINK.
