Answer:

In reality, alternating alcoholic beverages with plain water can dilute the alcohol entering the body, partially aiding the excretion of alcohol through urine. However, it cannot completely eliminate alcohol or help the body flush it out quickly.

Once ethanol is absorbed, only about 5-10% is excreted through breath, sweat, and urine. The majority, approximately 90-95%, is transported to the liver for metabolism. The liver is the organ responsible for processing toxins and requires time to eliminate them. Therefore, drinking a lot of water cannot rapidly reduce blood alcohol concentration as many people believe.

On average, it takes about one hour for the body to break down one unit of alcohol. The elimination time varies depending on the drinker's age, weight, and other factors. Additionally, each person has a different tolerance level, leading to varying times for intoxication.

Conversely, drinking too much water in a short period can cause electrolyte disturbances, as alcohol naturally causes the body to lose water and electrolytes through diuresis. Therefore, you can use beverages that both dilute alcohol concentration and effectively replenish water and electrolytes, such as oresol, lemon water with salt, mineral water with salt, or fruit juice.

Illustration: Healthhub

Doctor Doan Du Manh

Deputy Director of the Cardiovascular and Stroke Center, Phuong Dong International Hospital