Newswise — The festive atmosphere of many Super Bowl parties may make guests more likely to drink to excess during Sunday’s big game, according to primary care experts from Loyola University Health System (LUHS).
"When drinking in groups such as at a Super Bowl party, it is easy to get carried away," said Jason Rice, MD, primary care physician, LUHS. "The inherent emotions attached to sporting events also can increase alcohol consumption, whether it's celebrating a big play from your favorite team or 'drowning your sorrows' following a poor performance."
Dr. Rice also stresses that at any event where alcohol consumption is increased, there are likely to be individuals drinking who are not accustomed to consuming alcohol and who may be less familiar with their personal limits.
Dr. Rice recommends that women not exceed three drinks and men not consume more than four on Super Bowl Sunday. Beyond this is considered binge drinking. Dr. Rice suggests drinking in moderation, which is defined as one drink a day for women and up to two drinks a day for men. One drink is considered 12 ounces of beer, 8 ounces of malt liquor, 5 ounces of wine or 1.5 ounces of hard liquor.
Because many people will watch the big game away from home in bars or friends’ homes, Dr. Rice reports that transportation also is a concern.
"While the safest option is always to avoid drinking to excess, it is equally important to have safe transportation options whenever alcohol is involved," said Dr. Rice who also is an instructor of internal medicine at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine. "I always stress the importance of not driving under the influence and taking public transportation, taxis or using designated drivers when it comes to any event where alcohol consumption is likely to be prevalent."
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