Debunking the Old Drinking Rhymes
For generations, people have passed down popular drinking rhymes like “Beer before liquor, never been sicker; liquor before beer, you’re in the clear.” The idea is that starting with a lighter, lower-proof drink like beer and switching to a stronger spirit will make you sicker than doing the reverse. These folklore tales, however, have no scientific basis. Alcohol is processed by the body in the same way regardless of its source, and the liver breaks it down at a consistent rate. Mixing different types of alcohol doesn't cause a negative chemical reaction in your stomach that intensifies intoxication or hangovers. What does matter is the total volume of alcohol consumed, the speed at which you drink it, and your body's individual tolerance level.
The Science of Alcohol Absorption
When you consume alcohol, it travels to your stomach and small intestine, where it is absorbed into your bloodstream. The rate of this absorption can vary based on several factors, but the order of your drinks is not one of them. For instance, drinking on an empty stomach allows alcohol to enter your bloodstream much faster, leading to a quicker and more intense feeling of intoxication. This is because food in the stomach acts as a buffer, slowing the absorption process. Similarly, carbonated drinks can speed up the absorption of alcohol. So, having a glass of sparkling wine before liquor might theoretically lead to faster absorption, but it's not a magical recipe for a worse hangover; it's simply a factor in how quickly your blood alcohol content rises. The severity of a hangover is predominantly a result of consuming too much alcohol overall, not the order in which you drank it.
The Role of Congeners
While the order of consumption is a myth, the type of alcohol can play a role in hangover severity. This is due to compounds called congeners, which are byproducts of fermentation. Congeners contribute to the flavor and aroma of alcoholic beverages but are also linked to more severe hangover symptoms. Generally, darker, more flavorful drinks contain more congeners, while clearer liquors have fewer. This explains why a night of drinking bourbon might leave you feeling worse than a night of vodka, even with the same amount of ethanol consumed. This isn't about the order, but about the specific chemical makeup of the drinks themselves.
Comparison of Alcohol Types and Congener Levels
| Alcohol Type | Congener Level | Potential Hangover Severity | Best for Hangover-Free Night (Moderation Key) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vodka | Low | Low | Yes |
| Gin | Low | Low | Yes |
| Rum (Light) | Low | Low | Yes |
| White Wine | Medium | Medium | Maybe |
| Beer (Pale Lager) | Medium | Medium | Maybe |
| Whiskey | High | High | No |
| Bourbon | Very High | Very High | No |
| Rum (Dark) | High | High | No |
| Red Wine | High | High | No |
Practical Tips for Drinking Responsibly
Forget the folklore and focus on what truly makes a difference. The key to a better next day isn't a magical order, but a responsible approach to drinking. Here are some actionable steps:
- Eat First: Never drink on an empty stomach. A balanced, filling meal beforehand slows alcohol absorption significantly.
- Stay Hydrated: Alcohol is a diuretic and causes dehydration, a primary contributor to hangover symptoms. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after drinking alcohol. Alternating alcoholic beverages with a glass of water is an excellent strategy.
- Pace Yourself: The faster you drink, the quicker your blood alcohol content rises. Spacing out your drinks allows your liver more time to process the alcohol. Aim for one standard drink per hour.
- Choose Wisely: If you're particularly prone to hangovers, opt for drinks with fewer congeners, such as vodka or gin.
- Know Your Limits: Everyone has a different tolerance level, influenced by genetics, weight, gender, and other factors. Pay attention to how your body feels and know when to stop. Don't let a fast-rising buzz cause you to misjudge your total consumption.
- Avoid Sugary Mixers: Excess sugar can exacerbate the effects of alcohol and worsen hangovers. Sticking to simple mixers like soda water is a better choice.
- Get Quality Sleep: Sleep is crucial for your body's recovery process. If you drink heavily, your sleep quality will be poor, but getting as much rest as possible will help.
Conclusion
The notion that there is a best order to drink alcohol is a persistent but unfounded myth. The intensity of your hangover is overwhelmingly determined by the total amount of alcohol consumed and the speed at which you drink it, not the sequence of beverages. Instead of worrying about "beer before wine," focus on responsible drinking practices. Eating a solid meal, staying hydrated, pacing your consumption, and being mindful of your body's limits are the most effective strategies for enjoying a night out without the regretful aftermath. For further information on the science of hangovers, you can read more from a study cited by Harvard Health here.
