Tet is the most important holiday in Vietnam. However, it is also a time when alcohol consumption increases due to traditions, customs, and social factors. Uncontrolled alcohol use not only affects health but also poses significant risks.
Severe Health Risks of Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Excessive drinking or consuming low-quality alcohol can lead to serious consequences:
- Traffic and Workplace Accidents: Alcohol impairs coordination, focus, and attention, increasing the risk of traffic accidents, workplace injuries, or household incidents.
- Alcohol Poisoning: Drinking too much can cause neurological damage, liver issues, seizures, deep coma, and even death.
- Methanol Poisoning: This toxic substance found in counterfeit or poor-quality alcohol can lead to blindness, multiple organ failure, or death.
- Long-term Health Effects: Prolonged alcohol use damages vital organs such as the liver, stomach, nervous system, and cardiovascular system.
Even regular alcohol consumed in excess can cause poisoning and endanger life (Image: N.P).
Safe and Effective Tips for Detoxing After Drinking
According to Dr. Trương Hồng Sơn, Director of the Vietnam Institute of Applied Medicine, there are simple methods to detoxify at home:
1. Drink Water
Water helps replenish lost fluids and dilute the alcohol concentration in the blood. However, avoid carbonated drinks like sodas, as they accelerate alcohol absorption.
2. Ginger Tea
Ginger promotes better blood circulation and helps eliminate alcohol faster. Adding a bit of honey can enhance its effectiveness.
3. Bread and Whole Grains
Whole grain bread and cereals contain carbohydrates that absorb alcohol and prevent hangovers. Vitamin B1 in these foods also reduces nausea symptoms.
4. Plain Rice Porridge
Porridge is easy to digest and suitable for those who are hungover. The rice in porridge contains carbohydrates that effectively absorb alcohol.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Detoxing
Dr. Nguyễn Trung Nguyên, Director of the Toxicology Center at Bach Mai Hospital, warns against common but ineffective methods:
- Lemon Water: Lemon juice’s acidity can irritate the stomach and increase vomiting in intoxicated individuals.
- Taking Supplements or Painkillers: Medications like paracetamol and aspirin can irritate the stomach lining and cause gastrointestinal bleeding when combined with alcohol.
- Forcing Vomiting: Only induce vomiting if the person is conscious. Forcing someone who is unconscious may lead to choking, pneumonia, or airway obstruction.
Tips for Protecting Your Health During Tet
To ensure safety during Tet, consider the following:
- Minimize alcohol consumption, especially avoiding unknown sources of alcohol.
- Do not drink on an empty stomach, when tired, or while taking medication.
- If signs of alcohol poisoning appear—such as seizures, persistent vomiting, or unconsciousness—immediately seek medical help instead of handling it at home.
Excessive alcohol consumption not only harms health but also leads to social problems.
Conclusion
While alcohol is an integral part of Tet celebrations, excessive consumption can have severe consequences. To protect yourself and your family, consume alcohol responsibly and use safe, scientific detox methods. Remember, good health is the most valuable asset.
Source: dantri.com.vn
