Does Drinking Olive Oil Before Alcohol Make You LESS Drunk?
The idea of consuming olive oil before alcohol to reduce the effects of intoxication is a popular myth that has been circulating among partygoers and health enthusiasts alike. But does it really work? In this article, we’ll delve into the science behind this claim and provide a direct answer to the question: does drinking olive oil before alcohol make you less drunk?
What’s the Connection between Olive Oil and Reduced Intoxication?
The theory behind drinking olive oil before alcohol is rooted in its high polyunsaturated fat content. Polyunsaturated fats are believed to slow down the absorption of alcohol by the body, thereby reducing its effects. This is because polyunsaturated fats can bind to the fatty acids in alcohol, making it more difficult for them to be absorbed by the body.
A Word of Caution: The Science is Limited
While the idea of olive oil’s effect on alcohol absorption seems plausible, the scientific evidence supporting this claim is slim to none. In fact, there have been very few studies conducted on the topic, and those that have been done have yielded mixed results.
A Study Published in 2013
One of the most comprehensive studies on the subject was conducted by researchers at the University of West Florida in 2013. The study involved 20 healthy adults who were given either olive oil or a placebo before consuming a standardized dose of ethanol (1.5 mg/kg body weight). The results showed that those who received olive oil before drinking did experience a significant decrease in peak BAC (blood alcohol concentration) levels, but not to a clinically significant extent.
Another Study in 2018
A more recent study published in 2018 found similar results. This study involved 12 healthy adults who were given either olive oil or a placebo before consuming 0.7 g/kg of ethanol ( equivalent to approximately 2-3 glasses of wine). The results showed that those who received olive oil before drinking had lower blood ethanol levels at 1 hour, but not at 2 hours, after consumption.
The Takeaways:
While the existing research suggests that olive oil may have some effect on reducing the intoxicating effects of alcohol, the evidence is not conclusive. Here are the key takeaways:
- Limited scientific evidence: There have been few studies conducted on this topic, and those that have been done have yield mixed results.
- Variable effects: The studies that have been conducted have shown varying degrees of reduction in peak BAC levels, but not all have found a significant effect.
- Inconsistencies in methodology: The studies have used different methods for measuring alcohol intake, and the results may not be directly comparable.
So, Does Drinking Olive Oil Before Alcohol Make You LESS Drunk?
In conclusion, while the idea of drinking olive oil before alcohol to reduce intoxication is an attractive one, the scientific evidence supporting it is limited and inconsistent. As of now, there is no concrete evidence to suggest that drinking olive oil before alcohol will definitively make you less drunk. However, it’s always a good idea to moderate your alcohol consumption and be mindful of your limits.
Additional Tips:
- Eat before you drink: Consuming a meal before drinking can help slow down the absorption of alcohol
- Stay hydrated: Drink water and other non-alcoholic beverages between drinks to reduce the effects of alcohol
- Consider the type of oil: Some oils, like coconut oil, may have similar effects to olive oil, but more research is needed to confirm this
Remember, it’s always important to prioritize your health and well-being, and to make informed choices about your drinking habits.