Moderation Skills
If you choose to drink, the way that you drink will have an effect on your level of risk. Moderate drinking, or maintaining a BAC of .05 % or less, will lead to more pleasure with less risk of negative consequences.
There are many strategies you can use to maintain a lower BAC. The following is a list of several ways to help you stay in control the next time you go out:
Decide what you drink: Alcohol content varies among drinks.
Space, Pace, Sip: Only allow yourself a certain amount of drinks within an allotted time. Sip, don't gulp. Slowing your rate of consumption will reduce BAC.
Dilute: Mixed drinks, where the concentration of alcohol has been diluted, lead to less rapid absorption.
Say no: It is sometimes difficult to say "no" to an offered drink after you have reached your limit. Plan how you will turn down drinks.
Recognize pressure: According to a study of the effect of peer pressure on college student drinking, students who believe they do not conform will change their rate of drinking to be comparable to their counterparts. Be your own person; make your own decisions.
More strategies for safer drinking
- Eat before and while you are drinking.
- Alternate alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks.
- Pace yourself. Slow down and take smaller sips.
- Don't use all your spending money one evening – bring just enough money with you for 1 or 2 drinks.
- Keep track of how much you drink.
- Watch your drink being poured so you can keep track of how much you're drinking.
- Reduce your standard drinks by choosing drinks that are not so strong.
- Be aware that many bar measures are very large – you may be drinking more standard drinks than you intend to.
- Don't mix alcohol with drugs – it can be deadly.