It’s common for people to mix different types of alcohol when drinking, such as mixing beer with liquor. One popular combination is mixing tequila and beer, which is sometimes called a Tequiza or Tebeer. But is it actually safe to mix tequila and beer? Here is a comprehensive look at whether it’s OK to mix tequila and beer, the effects it can have, and some tips for drinking these beverages together more responsibly.
Is Mixing Tequila and Beer Dangerous?
Mixing different types of alcohol does increase your overall alcohol intake for the night, which means it’s generally not recommended from a health and safety perspective. However, there are a few specific concerns when it comes to mixing tequila and beer:
Increased Alcohol Content
Beer usually has an alcohol content between 4-6%, while tequila is a distilled spirit with an alcohol content around 40-50%. This means when you alternate between shots of tequila and glasses of beer, you are significantly increasing the amount of alcohol you consume compared to just drinking one or the other. Consuming more alcohol in a short period of time increases intoxication levels and impacts coordination and decision-making abilities.
Different Rates of Alcohol Absorption
When you drink tequila shots mixed with beer, the difference in alcohol concentration can affect the rate your body absorbs the alcohol. The body typically absorbs alcohol from spirits faster than beer. This means you may feel the effects of the tequila shots quickly, before the effects of the beer have set in. Having mismatched intoxication levels can increase the risks of overconsumption and alcohol poisoning.
Increased Risk of Dehydration
Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it makes you urinate more frequently leading to dehydration. This effect is amplified when mixing drinks with different alcohol concentrations. The combination of beer and tequila can quickly dehydrate the body, leading to symptoms like dizziness, nausea, headaches and fatigue the next day.
Possibility of Overconsumption
Taking tequila shots in between glasses of beer can lead people to lose track of exactly how much alcohol they have consumed over the course of several hours. This could increase the risk of overconsumption, alcohol poisoning, and prolonged intoxication.
Short-Term Effects of Mixing Tequila and Beer
In the short-term, mixing tequila and beer can intensify the effects of alcohol leading to:
– Increased intoxication and drunk feelings
– Impaired coordination and reflexes
– Decreased inhibitions
– Poor judgement
– Slurred speech
– Drowsiness
The alternating alcohol concentrations make it more difficult for the body to metabolize the alcohol efficiently. This leads to faster escalation of drunk symptoms like loss of balance, blurred vision, and delayed reaction times.
Many people report getting drunk or tipsy more quickly when shots are mixed with beer rather than just drinking one type of alcohol. The body can have a harder time adjusting to the variety of alcohol strengths.
Gastrointestinal Effects
The mixture of carbonated beer and hard liquor like tequila can also lead to more gastrointestinal issues like:
– Bloating
– Heartburn
– Nausea
– Vomiting
The carbonation and gassiness of beer combined with irritating effects of tequila can cause stomach pain, belching, and general digestive discomfort. Some people experience an urgent need to vomit or have bowel issues from the combination.
Long-Term Effects of Mixing Alcohol
Over the long-term, mixing tequila and beer may contribute to:
Increased Risk of Alcohol Abuse
People who frequently mix different alcoholic drinks to get drunk faster have a higher risk of developing patterns of alcohol abuse. The rapid intoxication and need for more drinks can lead to binge drinking episodes and dependency.
Exacerbation of Mental Health Issues
Alcohol misuse is often interconnected with anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. Those predisposed to mental illness tend to have worse symptoms during and after bouts of binge drinking mixed alcohols.
Severe Dehydration
Frequently combining diuretic alcohol types that have contrasting effects on hydration status can lead to recurrent dehydration. This electrolyte imbalance taxes the cells and organs.
Increased Risk of Liver Disease
Regularly drinking high volumes of alcohol from mixing different types increases your risk for liver problems like fatty liver disease and cirrhosis. The liver has a harder time keeping up with metabolizing different alcohol concentrations.
Economic Impacts
Buying shots and rounds of beer can quickly become very costly during a night out. Trying to offset liquor with beer usually ends up increasing spending at the bar. Hangovers from mixing alcohol can also decrease productivity at work.
Tips for Drinking Tequila and Beer More Responsibly
If you do choose to mix tequila and beer, here are some tips to reduce associated risks:
Space Out Drinks
Rather than quickly alternating tequila shots with beer, space them out more. Have a full glass of water in between each alcoholic drink. This gives your body more time to process the alcohol.
Eat Before and During
Consuming food with the alcohol can slow absorption. Make sure to have a full meal before going out and snack on bar food while drinking.
Set Limits
Decide on a max limit for shots and beer and stick to it. Recruit friends to help hold you accountable for staying within your predetermined limits.
Do Not Drive
Never get behind the wheel after mixing beer and tequila. The combined effects make driving extremely dangerous. Use public transportation or a rideshare.
Avoid Other Medications
Check for interactions with any current medications you take to avoid adverse effects. Mixing alcohol with many prescription drugs is unsafe.
Watch for Signs of Excessive Intoxication
Be aware of symptoms like vomiting, passing out, or an inability to stand/walk. Stop drinking immediately and seek medical attention if needed.
Choose Lower Alcohol Beer
Opt for light beers around 3-4% alcohol rather than stronger IPAs or double IPAs. This helps manage total alcohol consumption.
Stay Hydrated
Drink a glass of water between each alcoholic beverage. Also be sure to drink water before bed and when you wake up to counteract dehydration.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mixing tequila and beer is generally not recommended, especially if done excessively or quickly. The combination can lead to increased intoxication, severe dehydration and other unsafe effects in the short-term. Over time, frequently mixing tequila and beer also comes with risks of alcohol abuse, mental decline and liver disease. However, if you do choose to drink tequila and beer in moderation, be sure to pace yourself by having food and water before, during and after. Having a plan and setting limits for intake can also help reduce the risks associated with mixing tequila and beer. But the healthiest approach is to avoid relying on mixing alcoholic drinks to get drunk and instead consume each drink responsibly.
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