Women Experience Greater Subjective Effects of Alcohol During Binge Drinking
Recent research shows women experience more intense subjective effects of alcohol, such as drunkenness and sedation, during binge drinking episodes, highlighting sex differences and risks associated with alcohol consumption.
A recent clinical study conducted by the Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital and Research Institute reveals that women tend to feel certain effects of alcohol, such as drunkenness and sedation, more intensely than men during episodes of binge drinking. The study focused on understanding sex differences in the experience of alcohol's subjective effects, particularly when alcohol intake occurs in a short period.
Binge drinking, commonly linked with social gatherings among young people, involves consuming more than four standard units of alcohol (SUA) in two hours for women, and more than five for men. It is noteworthy that one SUA contains around 10 grams of alcohol—equivalent to half a mixed drink, a small beer, or a modest glass of wine. Recent surveys show that nearly 10% of individuals aged 15 to 64 have engaged in at least one binge drinking session monthly, with rates climbing among adolescents.
The researchers aimed to determine whether women experience alcohol effects more intensely than men, accounting for biological differences such as body weight, fat composition, enzyme activity, and hormonal factors. To ensure fair comparison, doses were adjusted so that both sexes reached identical blood alcohol concentrations (BAC). Despite this parity, women reported more pronounced feelings of drunkenness and sedation, indicating a heightened sensitivity to alcohol's subjective effects.
Another aspect explored was the misconception that energy drinks can mitigate the sedative effects of alcohol. A related study involving young adults aged 18-25 showed that even when energy drinks were mixed with alcohol, driving ability and reaction times were similarly impaired in both men and women. However, consuming energy drinks did not improve safety; rather, it could foster a false sense of control, potentially encouraging risky behaviors such as unsafe driving or risky sexual activities.
Overall, these findings emphasize the importance of recognizing sex differences in alcohol response and the dangers of believing that energy drinks can offset alcohol’s effects. The research underscores the need for targeted prevention strategies and public health messaging to address binge drinking behaviors and associated risks.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-women-susceptible-subjective-effects-alcohol.html
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Impact of Trump's Spending Package on Rural Hospitals and Healthcare Access
The recent federal spending package signed by President Trump faces criticism for reducing Medicaid funding, which threatens the survival of rural hospitals and access to essential healthcare in underserved communities. Experts warn of increased closures and health disparities.
Introducing Peanuts and Eggs Early Reduces Food Allergy Risks in Infants
Early introduction of peanuts and eggs at around six months significantly lowers the risk of developing food allergies in infants, according to recent Australian studies and updated guidelines. This approach offers a promising strategy for allergy prevention.
