Drinking Taboos
Drinking Taboos
Not everyone enjoys drinking. Some enthusiasts drink until unconsciousness; others are forced to drink excessively for work or social obligations. Consequently, countless persuasive drinking phrases have emerged: “Deep feelings, one gulp” (drinking a whole cup at once), “Good things come in pairs” (drink two cups), “Double happiness” (four cups each), “Six six lucky” (six cups), “Eight eight prosperous” (eight cups)—as if not finishing or getting drunk means lack of sincerity. This phenomenon, widespread since the rise of market economy, is clearly harmful. Some even drink while ill, ultimately dying prematurely.
Therefore, drinkers must observe the following taboos: First, avoid excessive drinking leading to intoxication; second, do not gulp down alcohol rapidly—this increases blood alcohol concentration and worsens drunkenness; third, never drink on an empty stomach—this directly irritates the gastrointestinal mucosa and accelerates toxic reactions in the liver and nervous system; fourth, avoid pressuring others to drink or forcing them to toast—drinking should be based on personal capacity; fifth, never drink while ill—especially those with liver disease, kidney disease, gastric ulcers, or mental disorders, as this worsens conditions; sixth, pregnant women must not drink—alcohol affects fetal development; seventh, avoid mixing beer and baijiu—drinking beer first, then baijiu, intensifies alcohol stimulation and increases intoxication risk; eighth, never drink and smoke simultaneously—smoke fumes dissolve easily in alcohol, and nicotine dissolved in alcohol is absorbed faster, increasing harm to the body.
Additionally, after drinking, avoid: first, spraying pesticides or indoor insecticides like "Kill Pest" — alcohol increases blood flow, dilates skin and mucosal vessels, enhancing permeability. If toxic pesticide contacts the skin or airborne chemicals are inhaled through respiratory mucosa, poisoning severity increases, endangering life. Second, avoid bathing immediately after drinking—this adds strain to the gastrointestinal tract and risks damaging digestive function. Third, avoid watching TV immediately after drinking—especially elderly people—because methanol in alcohol can cause optic nerve atrophy and eye damage. Fourth, avoid taking medication immediately after drinking—especially sedatives.