Alcohol and Caffeine Don’t Go Together
Despite popular opinion and false advertisements, mixing alcohol and caffeine should be discouraged. This often leads to unwanted consequences that put users’ lives at risk. It doesn’t matter if the two beverages are consumed simultaneously, minutes apart, or way before each other. The bottom line is that combining caffeine, i.e., coffee and alcohol is disastrous. Things could go very wrong and lead to severe consequences.
What is likely to happen with this Combo?
While many believe that caffeine can lower the amount of alcohol in one’s system and hasten sobering up, this is not true. Mixing these two beverages means combining a central nervous system stimulant, caffeine, and a central nervous system depressant which is alcohol. Alcohol’s effect is slowing and drowsy, whereas caffeine causes you to be alert and excited.
The two beverages have opposite effects and will be conflicting when consumed. Unfortunately, unlike what most people think, the two varying results do not cancel out. Instead, they can be deceiving. One may overconsume alcohol, believing they have more capacity to withstand higher doses. The combination fosters alcohol dependence much faster than alcohol alone. Some of the common effects include:
- Increased binge drinking:Combining the two beverages increases alcohol intake by up to 4 times. Individuals between 15 and 23 who mix alcohol with high-caffeine energy.
- Increased risky behaviors:Due to the overconsumption of alcohol, many people throw caution to the wind and are more likely to engage in risky behaviors that jeopardize their health or even lead to severe injuries and sickness.
- Higher chance of sexual assault: Since one is not alert as they presume, they are more vulnerable and open to sexual assault and violence. It makes resilience and the fight against unwanted sexual advances impossible. What’s more, it promotes reckless behaviors, which are a predisposing factor to sexual carelessness and violence. Unfortunately, those affected may have unwanted pregnancies or sexually transmitted diseases.
How combining Caffeine and Alcohol Affects the Body
The impact of caffeine and alcohol combination on the body is long-term and short-term. Usually, it leads to many complex health disorders that interfere with the system’s normal functioning. The health and safety risks posed by this combination of drinks should not be underestimated. What’s more, the degree of damage also varies significantly. Some of the effects include:
Dehydration: Since both beverages are diuretics, they lead to excess urination, which can cause dehydration. Users often tend to be dry-mouthed, light-headed, and dizzy. In some cases, there could be muscle cramping and confusion, especially in severe cases.
Alcohol Poisoning
Since caffeine can cheat the body into assuming it can take more alcohol, most people overdo it. This, in turn, leads to alcohol poisoning and related risks. Some people vomit, become unconscious, get seizures, and even experience reduced body temperatures.
Other consequences besides alcohol poisoning and dehydration include:
- Heart issues
- Sleep disorders
- Digestive pain
In case you struggle with alcohol addiction and caffeine dependence, it is advisable to get help immediately. Consider talking to professionals who understand the struggle best. Skyward Treatment has the know-how and equipment to support your recovery endeavors. Talk to us via our phone numbers anytime you are ready to begin the recovery journey.
