Logo

Your Holiday Cocktail Strategy Starts Before the First Pour

Published on Nov 06, 2025 | 11:08 AM

Share Article :

social-icons social-icons social-icons
Table of Contents

Was this article helpful?

Want to learn about a specific topic or condition?

Submit

A glass of wine or two can be part of celebrating—but when one drink turns into many, the effects last longer than the party. Alcohol impacts hydration, sleep, blood sugar, and blood pressure—all of which matter more during the busy holiday season.

The Hidden Physiology of Holiday Drinks

When alcohol enters your bloodstream, it suppresses the release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which causes increased urination and dehydration. That’s why hangovers often come with dry mouth and headaches.
It also raises cortisol and adrenaline, making you more anxious and restless—especially after the buzz fades.

Set a Smart Strategy Before You Sip

  • Eat first. Protein and healthy fats slow absorption and protect your stomach.
  • Hydrate often. Alternate alcohol with equal amounts of water or sparkling water.
  • Choose clear over dark. Vodka and gin have fewer congeners (toxins from fermentation).
  • Watch sugary mixers. They worsen dehydration and blood sugar spikes.

Plan your cutoff. Stop drinking 3 hours before bed to protect sleep quality.

If You Overdo It

The “hair of the dog” doesn’t work—rehydration does. Drink electrolyte fluids, eat a balanced meal, and rest. Avoid acetaminophen, as combining it with alcohol can strain your liver.

Red Flags to Watch

If you experience heart palpitations, tremors, or nausea lasting more than a day, your body needs rest and evaluation.

👉 Skip the clinic—your pocket has the answer. CallOnDoc can assess dehydration, prescribe anti-nausea medication, and provide anxiety support—fast and discreet.

Was this article helpful?

Want to learn about a specific topic or condition?

Submit
Doctor-image-blog
Shelly House, FNP,

Shelly House, FNP, is a Family Nurse Practitioner and Call-On-Doc’s trusted medical education voice. With extensive experience in telehealth and patient-centered care, Ms. House is dedicated to making complex health topics simple and accessible. Through evidence-based content, provider collaboration, and a passion for empowering patients, her mission is to break down barriers to healthcare by delivering clear, compassionate, and practical medical guidance.

Related Blogs

Warning Signs and Symptoms of Prediabetes

More than 1 in 3 Americans—approximately 96 million adults—are prediabetic. Of those who have prediabetes. 80% do not know they have it. People with prediabetes don’t experience the same intensity of symptoms as those with diabetes. This can make noticing the signs and getting help early on difficult to do.

May 09, 2022 | 10:04 AM

Read More arrow right

What to Know About Breast Cancer

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer affecting women in the United States. This guide will explain breast cancer types and reveal what steps you can take for prevention and treatment.

Oct 23, 2022 | 11:47 AM

Read More arrow right

National Diabetes Awareness Week

Diabetes affects the body’s ability to get energy from glucose. People with this condition are either not able to produce sufficient insulin (Type 1) or are unable to use the insulin their body makes to its full potential (Type 2).

When either of these things occurs, an excess of sugar remains in the blood. Left unchecked, too much sugar in the bloodstream can lead to the development of serious problems like kidney and heart disease, as well as vision loss. Unfortunately, 20% of people with diabetes may never know they have it.

Nov 15, 2022 | 11:19 AM

Read More arrow right

809,000+ starstarstarstarstar Reviews

809,000+ star star star star star Reviews

Feedback from our amazing patients!

4.9
star
google icon star facebook icon

Highest Rated Telemedicine Provider

star
4.9 (13102 Reviews)
star
4.8 (10001 Reviews)
star
4.9 (4570 Reviews)