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Drinking Alcohol in the Sun: Risks, Dehydration, and Menstrual Cycle Effects
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As temperatures rise, so does the temptation to enjoy an alcoholic beverage outdoors. Though, experts warn that drinking alcohol in the sun comes with unique risks, from accelerated intoxication to increased sunburn vulnerability.Understanding these dangers is crucial for staying safe and responsible this summer.
The Immediate Impact of sun and Alcohol
The combination of sun and alcohol can lead to several immediate effects on the body. It’s not that the sun *makes* you more drunk, but the heat accelerates alcohol’s impact. “The heat increases blood flow, so that alcohol ends up in your blood and therefore in your brain faster. So you feel it sooner,” according to experts Centers for Disease Control and prevention (CDC).
Faster Intoxication
The heat from the sun causes blood vessels to dilate, leading to increased blood flow. This means alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream more quickly, resulting in a faster onset of intoxication. This rapid effect can make it harder to gauge your level of impairment, increasing the risk of accidents and poor decision-making.
Increased Sunburn Risk
Alcohol consumption can also make you more susceptible to sunburn. The breakdown substances in alcohol increase the skin’s sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This heightened sensitivity means you can burn more easily and severely, even with brief sun exposure. The Skin Cancer foundation recommends diligent sunscreen application, especially when consuming alcohol outdoors Skin Cancer Foundation.
