If there’s one thing 2024 has taught us, it’s that social media trends can range from inspiring to downright bizarre. From quirky dance moves to creative life hacks, some trends leave us entertained, while others make us pause and wonder: “Is this really a good idea?” One viral trend this year has people coming together to create what they call the ultimate cocktail—a mix of tonic water, vodka, tequila, whiskey, rum, and soda. The video shows a group adding one ingredient after another, giggling as they create this “deadly” concoction. Their final verdict? “Not bad” and “yummy.”

Sure, it might seem like harmless fun for an Instagram reel, but mixing different types of alcohol isn’t just a wild experiment, it can actually be risky for your health.

Combining different types of alcohol can lead to a variety of short- and long-term health issues, ranging from acute intoxication to chronic damage.

Dr Eric Rimm, a professor of epidemiology and nutrition at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, explains that mixing different types of alcohol often results in higher blood alcohol concentration (BAC). “People underestimate how quickly BAC rises when multiple alcohols are consumed in a short timeframe,” he notes. The combined potency can lead to loss of coordination, impaired judgment, and an increased risk of alcohol poisoning.

Adding carbonated mixers, like soda or tonic water, to alcohol can increase the problem. A 2017 study published in Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research revealed that carbonation speeds up alcohol absorption into the bloodstream, intensifying intoxication.

Long-Term Health Risks: Immune System Suppression and Organ Damage

Mixing alcohol doesn’t just have immediate consequences—it can also weaken your immune system and damage vital organs over time. Dr Jessica Mellinger, a hepatologist at the University of Michigan, emphasizes that combining multiple alcohol types increases the toxic load on your liver. “The liver is already working overtime to process alcohol. Mixing spirits introduces different compounds, making detoxification harder and leading to a higher risk of liver damage,” she warns.

Studies also suggest that excessive alcohol consumption can impair white blood cell production, leaving the body more vulnerable to infections. Over time, chronic drinking—especially of mixed alcohols—can lead to cardiovascular issues and digestive system disorders.

- Stick to One Type of Alcohol: Western health experts, including Dr Rimm, recommend sticking to a single type of alcohol to manage your intake more effectively.

- Pace Yourself: Drink slowly and alternate with water to stay hydrated and reduce the risk of overconsumption.

- Know Your Limits: Understand your tolerance and avoid peer pressure to participate in risky trends.

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