10 Types of Alcohol You Shouldn’t Be Drinking
While enjoying a drink now and then is a common social activity, not all alcoholic beverages are created equal. Some types of alcohol pose significant health risks or have adverse effects that outweigh their potential enjoyment. Here are ten types of alcohol you should avoid to maintain your health and well-being.
1. High-Sugar Cocktails
High-sugar cocktails, such as piña coladas and daiquiris, can be deceivingly harmful. The excessive sugar content can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, contributing to weight gain and increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Additionally, sugary drinks can cause severe hangovers due to their high glycemic index.
2. Low-Quality Spirits
Cheap, low-quality spirits often contain higher levels of impurities and congeners, which are byproducts of the fermentation process. These impurities can lead to more severe hangovers and pose long-term health risks. Opting for higher-quality, well-distilled spirits can reduce these risks and provide a smoother drinking experience.
3. Pre-Mixed Alcoholic Beverages
Pre-mixed alcoholic beverages, such as canned cocktails and alcopops, are convenient but often loaded with artificial flavors, colors, and excessive sugar. These additives can have negative health effects, including increased calorie intake and potential allergic reactions. It’s better to prepare your own drinks with fresh, natural ingredients.
4. Alcoholic Energy Drinks
Combining alcohol with energy drinks is a dangerous trend. The stimulant effects of caffeine can mask the depressant effects of alcohol, leading to increased consumption and higher risk of alcohol poisoning. This combination can also cause heart palpitations and other cardiovascular issues.
5. Flavored Malt Beverages
Flavored malt beverages, often marketed as “alcopops,” are sweet, fruity drinks with a high alcohol content. These beverages can be misleadingly easy to consume due to their taste, leading to overconsumption. The high sugar and calorie content also contribute to various health issues, including weight gain and dental problems.
6. Excessively Aged Spirits
While aging can enhance the flavor of spirits, excessively aged alcohol, especially in improperly stored barrels, can develop harmful compounds. Old, improperly stored spirits may contain high levels of methanol and other toxins, posing serious health risks. Always check the source and storage conditions of aged spirits before consumption.
7. Moonshine and Illegally Distilled Alcohol
Illegally distilled alcohol, commonly known as moonshine, is often produced without proper safety standards. This can result in dangerously high levels of methanol and other toxic substances. Consuming moonshine can lead to severe health issues, including blindness and death.
8. Alcoholic Soda
Alcoholic sodas, which combine soda flavors with alcohol, are appealing but harmful. These drinks typically contain high sugar levels and artificial additives. The carbonation can also speed up the absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream, increasing the risk of intoxication and related health issues.
9. Grain Alcohol
Grain alcohol, such as Everclear, is extremely potent and often used as an ingredient in homemade alcoholic concoctions. With an alcohol content of up to 95%, it can be dangerously easy to consume too much. Grain alcohol poses a high risk of alcohol poisoning and should be avoided or used with extreme caution.
10. Expired Alcoholic Beverages
Expired alcoholic beverages, especially beer and wine, can develop off-flavors and potentially harmful bacteria. Consuming expired alcohol can lead to food poisoning symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Always check the expiration date and storage conditions before consuming any alcoholic beverage.
Types of Alcohol
In conclusion, while enjoying a drink can be a part of social life, it’s essential to be mindful of the types of alcohol you consume. Avoiding high-sugar cocktails, low-quality spirits, pre-mixed beverages, and other potentially harmful types of alcohol can help protect your health and ensure a safer drinking experience. Make informed choices and prioritize your well-being when it comes to alcohol consumption.
Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.