Drinking Taboos
Drinking Taboos
Not everyone enjoys drinking. Some enthusiasts drink until they pass out, while others are forced to drink heavily for work or social obligations. Consequently, countless drinking slogans have emerged: "Deep feelings, one gulp" (drink the whole glass at once), "Good things come in pairs" (drink two glasses), "Double happiness" (four glasses each), "Six six lucky" (six glasses), "Eight eight prosperous" (eight glasses)—as if not finishing or getting drunk means lack of sincerity. This phenomenon, widespread since the rise of commodity economy, carries obvious dangers. Some even drink while ill to "persuade" others, ultimately dying prematurely.
Therefore, drinkers must observe the following taboos: First, avoid excessive drinking leading to intoxication; second, avoid gulping down drinks too fast—this increases blood alcohol concentration and worsens intoxication; third, avoid drinking on an empty stomach—it 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, avoid drinking while ill, especially those with liver disease, kidney disease, gastric ulcers, or mental disorders, as this worsens conditions; sixth, avoid drinking during pregnancy—alcohol affects fetal development; seventh, avoid mixing beer and spirits—drinking beer first then spirits amplifies alcohol stimulation, increasing intoxication risk; eighth, avoid smoking while drinking—smoke easily dissolves in alcohol, and nicotine absorbed from alcohol increases harm to the body.
Additionally, after drinking, take note of the following: First, do not spray pesticides or indoor insecticides like "Kill Pest" after drinking. Alcohol increases blood flow, dilates skin and mucosal vessels, and enhances permeability. If toxic pesticides contact the skin or airborne chemicals are inhaled through mucous membranes, toxicity risks increase dramatically, endangering life. Second, do not bathe immediately after drinking—this adds strain to the gastrointestinal tract and may damage digestive function. Third, avoid watching TV immediately after drinking, especially for the elderly—alcohol's methanol can cause optic nerve atrophy and eye damage. Fourth, do not take medication immediately after drinking, especially sedatives.