Taking the Right Amount of Whiskey
Whiskey can make for an enjoyable evening, but you don’t want to overdo it. Knowing how to not get drunk on whiskey is essential for a fun and safe evening. Here are some tips on how to make sure you don’t take in too much whiskey and become intoxicated.
Start slow. Rather than taking a large swig of whiskey immediately, sip it slowly to give your body time to adjust to the alcohol. Doing so will can help your body become accustomed to the liquor, and the primary side effect should be a pleasant buzz, rather than getting drunk.
Alternate between drinks in a way that works for you. A great way to pace yourself is to switch between whisky and another drink like tonic, soda or water. When you feel you’ve had enough alcohol for the night, switching entirely to the alternative beverage can help keep your head clear.
Finding the Drink That Fits You
Another way you can avoid getting drunk while drinking whiskey is to find the right kind for you. Different types of whiskeys can vary a lot in their alcohol content. For example, some whiskeys have 40% alcohol, while others are considered high proof and can range up to 75%. You may prefer higher alcohol content whiskeys for the stronger flavor or a lower proof whiskey for a subtler taste.
If you’re unsure of a particular type of whiskey, ask a professional bartender or purchase only small quantities until you find one that fits your needs. Since each type has a distinctive flavor and aroma, you’ll be able to bask in the subtle nuances while remaining relatively sober.
Eating and Drinking Alternatives
Being mindful of how much you’re eating and drinking along with whiskey can also help you avoid becoming drunk. Drinking whiskey on an empty stomach can be particularly problematic, so try to consume some food, as well as plenty of water, beforehand and throughout the night so your body can handle the effects of alcohol more effectively.
Eating the right food is an important part of taking whiskey. Sugary and greasy food can add to intoxication, so choose foods that help meld with the flavors of the whiskey while moderating its alcohol content. These simple snacks like cheese, olives and nuts are naturally subtle in taste and their saltiness helps dilute the effects of the liquor.
Treating the Symptoms of Intoxication
If, despite your best efforts, you still overdo it with the whiskey and start to feel woozy or disoriented, take steps to minimize the effects of intoxication and sober up.
One good rule of thumb is to avoid drinking more alcohol to cure a hangover. If your systems are already compromised, you’re more likely to end up more inebriated than before.
Drinking plenty of non-alcoholic beverages, staying hydrated with water, and getting some rest are all important steps for getting back to feeling normal. If you still feel overwhelmed by the effects of intoxication, talk to your doctor to get more specific advice.
Dosing Milestones
Pacing your whiskey consumption is important for preventing intoxication. A good way to keep track of your progress is to measure the amount you drink in milestones, similar to how runners mark off miles on a marathon course.
Set dosing milestones on a per-serving basis. You should be aware of when you finish your first glass, have your second glass halfway done, and sip on the last of your liquor with a clear head. Doing so will help you keep track of how much whiskey you’ve had and will help you stay in control of how much you intake.
Staying Sober While Enjoying Whiskey
You don’t have to sacrifice the pleasure of whiskey to stay sober. While moderate consumption is always recommend, some people simply don’t handle alcohol as well as others. These tips can help you keep your evening enjoyable even while ensuring you don’t get drunk on whiskey. With some careful planning and a few simple steps, you can drink whisky and still remain relatively sober.
