No party worth the name has ever been without shots. Shots are the universal symbol of a celebration starting, but they are also the fastest way for a great evening to derail. This holds doubly true for women on account of their safety. Therefore, if you are going for a night out, it is prudent to be discerning when ordering shots. You don’t have to skip it entirely and miss being part of the fun, but knowing what to order, how to pace your drink, and being honest with yourself about your limits can be very useful. So, whether you are hitting a high-energy club or celebrating a bachelorette party, here are five essential things you need to keep in mind before taking that round of shots to ensure a safe, fun, and hangover-resistant night out.
This is probably one of the most important things to keep in mind. Just because they are called “shots” does not mean they will all hit in the same way. High-proof shots like those of Tequila or Mezcal have an ABV of around 40 percent. This means that shots of these spirits will hit way harder than flavored liqueurs like sour apples or peach schnapps that typically have an ABV of around 15 percent to 20 percent.
What is more, the sugar content of a particular shot can also significantly influence your alcohol intake. Shots like Kamikazes and Lemon Drops have high sugar content. This dulls the harshness of alcohol and makes it very easy to drink one right after another. This might lead you to drink way more than normal, significantly impacting your night.
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What is more, gimmicky shots like the ones on fire can carry burn risks. Layered or cream-based shots can also cause an upset tummy.
There may have been instances where the drinks don’t hit immediately after consumption. This isn’t your cue to do more shots. This happens mainly because there is a 20- to 30-minute lag in the time it takes for your body to fully feel the biological effects of alcohol.
Taking shots one after another without adequate hydration can spike the blood alcohol level (BAC) significantly and can lead to sudden blackouts or severe nausea. To avoid this, follow the 1-for-1 rule. After each shot, drink one full glass of water or a non-alcoholic, hydrating buffer.
Also Read: 5 Things Girls Should Know Before Going On A Solo Drinking Holiday
Instead of drinking beyond your capacity and then taking meds to prevent a hangover, it is much better to prepare for the night out in advance. Having a full stomach slows down alcohol absorption in the stomach lining.
In case you didn’t get a chance to have a meal rife with dietary fats, protein, or complex carbohydrates, hydrating in advance can also benefit you significantly. Try drinking a sports drink, electrolytes, or coconut water before you go out and have any alcohol in your system. This will reduce dehydration a lot.
Another smart thing to do would be to avoid mixing carbonated drinks with shots. Carbonation increases the pressure on your stomach and speeds up the absorption of alcohol into your blood.
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Another thing to keep in mind about your safety is that you should always order from the bartender directly. Make sure you watch the shots being poured from the bottle into clean glasses. You should also never leave your tray of shots unattended at a table or booth while heading to the dance floor or restroom.
Choosing lower-sugar chasers like pineapple juice, fresh lime wedges, or soda water instead of sugary sodas or energy drinks can save you a whole lot of trouble. So can opting for lighter options like a "Skinny Mini" shooter, Aperol-based shots, or low-alcohol herbal options.
In case you do not want to drink anymore but still want to be a part of the shot-drinking. Ask the bartender to make yours with Aperol spritz and lemon. This way, participate in toasts without having to drink alcohol.
Also Read: 5 Things Women Should Know Before Ordering Drinks At A New Bar
Having fun, enjoying shots, and being safe can all go hand in hand if you are discerning in your judgement and are aware of your capacity. The most important thing to remember is hydration. If you are the designated driver or in charge of taking care of everyone else, make sure you are paying attention to how much water everyone is drinking. Staying safe is integral to having a good night out.
