Liquor or alcohol in the form of beer, spirits and wine is consumed by people of different cultures across the world. Liquor lovers need to follow some guidelines to get more enjoyment and satisfaction from this activity. Responsible drinking means not to become drunk and never have to feel sorry for what has happened during drinking. A little self-control is all that is needed.

Drinking liquor does not devastate lives but the lack of control would do that precisely. Those who are psychologically damaged or unstable, suffering from depression and extreme anger should strictly avoid liquor consumption.

According to the recent survey conducted by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than fifty one percent adults consume at least 12 drinks a year.

For safe alcohol consumption, listed below are tips to be followed by liquor lovers

• Eat food while you drink

Make sure you eat along with drinking. It is good to have high protein foods like nuts, cheese, meats as they help to slow the absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream. You can also opt for a veggie platter with hummus and pita for its fiber and protein content. It is a better option than French fries and onion rings. It is important to eat first and eat enough.

• Never drink on an empty stomach

Have your drinks with a meal especially when you are drinking out and you have to drive home. Alcohol lowers blood sugar levels and consuming liquor on a empty stomach would deplete those levels further.

• Take rest

It is important to have a good night`s rest after a night of drinking. You also need to keep away from liquor after strenuous physical activity or after a poor sleep at night.

• Pace your drinks

Space your alcohol drinks with a non alcoholic drink to keep your blood alcohol concentration down. You can also avoid intoxication. You need to drink at regular reasonable intervals with a drink an hour schedule.

You need to pace your drinking, start with a big glass of water and lemon and this will keep you well hydrated.

• Know your limits

You need to have moderation in drinking. Not too much and not too fast or gulping. You should not have more than one drink a day and the standard drink is 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine and 1 and ½ ounces of liquor. Crossing your limits would mean intoxication.

• Keep away from fruit and rum drinks

Beware of unfamiliar drinks as it can be deceiving. Alcohol in them is not easily detectable and they are high in calories too. Mixed drinks are not satiating.

• Choose clear liquids

Dark alcohols result in severe hangovers as they contain highest amount of congeners. Stick to Vodka and there are many flavored vodkas and the best bet is vodka martini.

• Avoid mixed drinks

Taking mixed drinks on an empty stomach can cause dizziness, weakness and mood swings.

• Drink plenty of water

As alcohol is diuretic and can lead to dehydration, headaches, you need to drink plenty of water to keep your system well hydrated.

Choose beer, wine and wine spritzers as they are lower in overall alcohol content and allow you to stay in action without getting intoxicated when taken in moderation. Drink wisely and responsibly.