Lunar New Year is approaching, and it’s natural to want to celebrate with a few drinks. But be mindful! Excessive alcohol consumption can impact your health. So, how much is too much? Let’s explore the recommended amounts and some essential safety tips for a healthy holiday season.
1. Recommended Alcohol Intake for Lunar New Year by the Ministry of Health
Recommended Alcohol Intake for Lunar New Year
During the Lunar New Year celebrations, alcohol consumption tends to increase, sometimes leading to unwanted consequences such as alcohol poisoning. Mild symptoms include anger, irritability, and unsteadiness, while more severe cases can result in vomiting, sweating, coma, rapid pulse, shallow breathing, and low blood pressure.
According to the Preventive Medicine Department – Ministry of Health, Vietnam ranks third in alcohol consumption in Asia. Excessive drinking can also affect liver function, leading to complications like elevated liver enzymes, acute hepatitis, and liver failure. If not treated promptly, these conditions can be life-threatening.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption Impacts Liver Function
To ensure a healthy holiday season, the Preventive Medicine Department – Ministry of Health recommends limiting consumption to no more than 2 units of alcohol per day for men and 1 unit per day for women, and not exceeding 5 days per week. One unit of alcohol is equivalent to 10 grams of pure alcohol, which is roughly 3/4 of a 330ml bottle/can of beer, a 330ml glass of draft beer, a 100ml glass of wine, or a 30ml shot of spirits.
2. Important Considerations for Alcohol Consumption During Lunar New Year
Important Considerations for Alcohol Consumption
With the increased alcohol consumption during the holidays, it’s crucial to purchase alcohol from reliable sources to ensure its quality and origin. This helps to avoid any unwanted health risks.
Additionally, refrain from driving or operating machinery after drinking alcohol, as it impairs your judgment and reflexes. For pregnant or breastfeeding women, alcohol consumption can negatively affect both the mother and the child, increasing the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature birth. Therefore, pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to abstain from alcohol.
If you’re taking medication that interacts with alcohol or have a medical condition exacerbated by alcohol, it’s best to avoid it altogether. Let’s prioritize our health and the well-being of those around us by practicing responsible drinking and adhering to safe alcohol consumption guidelines this Lunar New Year.
Source: Tuoi Tre Newspaper, Preventive Medicine Department – Ministry of Health
