What are the benefits of drinking soda water before drinking alcohol

Drinking soda water before drinking can help slow down alcohol absorption and alleviate stomach discomfort. The alkaline component of soda water can neutralize some stomach acid, and the carbonation gas can delay gastric emptying, thereby reducing the risk of drunkenness. Drinking soda before drinking alcohol can work through two mechanisms. Sodium bicarbonate can slightly neutralize stomach acid, reduce direct stimulation of the gastric mucosa by alcohol, and alleviate discomfort such as nausea and heartburn. The satiety caused by carbonic acid gas can slow down the gastric emptying rate, reducing the rate of alcohol entering the small intestine and indirectly lowering the peak blood alcohol concentration. This buffering effect is particularly evident for fasting drinkers.

Caution should be exercised when drinking soda water in special circumstances. Patients with gastric ulcers may experience increased pain due to increased gastric pressure caused by carbonation gas, and those with renal insufficiency should pay attention to sodium load issues. Some people may experience bloating or belching after drinking, and patients with reflux esophagitis may trigger acid reflux symptoms. Mixing carbonated drinks with alcohol may accelerate gastric emptying and instead promote alcohol absorption.

It is recommended to drink about 200ml of room temperature soda water 30 minutes before drinking alcohol to avoid chilling and stimulating the gastrointestinal tract. Simultaneously pairing with moderate amounts of high protein foods such as milk and nuts can further delay alcohol absorption. It should be noted that soda water cannot eliminate the harm of alcohol, and controlling alcohol consumption is still key. Long term alcohol consumption may damage the liver, gastrointestinal tract, and nervous system. Special populations should strictly abstain from alcohol.