The saying “Beer before liquor, never been sicker; liquor before beer, you’re in the clear” is a common piece of advice given to drinkers. However, there is actually no scientific evidence to support the notion that the order in which you consume different types of alcohol affects how sick you feel the next day. The main factor that determines how you feel after drinking is the total amount of alcohol you consume, not the order in which you drink it.

When you drink alcohol, your body metabolizes it at a fairly constant rate regardless of the beverage’s type. The key factor in determining your level of intoxication and the severity of your hangover is the amount of alcohol that you consume, not the order in which you drink it. Mixing different types of alcohol can certainly increase the chances of overconsumption, as it may be harder to track how much alcohol you’ve had. This can lead to overindulgence and a higher likelihood of experiencing negative side effects, such as vomiting, headache, and dehydration.

Another reason why people may feel sicker after mixing beer and liquor is that the combination of different types of alcohol can lead to a wider range of congeners in the body. Congeners are chemicals that are produced during the fermentation and aging process of certain alcoholic beverages, such as dark liquors like whiskey and red wine. These compounds can contribute to the severity of hangovers and may lead to increased symptoms of nausea, headache, and overall discomfort.

In conclusion, the saying “Beer before liquor, never been sicker” is more of a folk belief than a scientific fact. The best way to prevent feeling sick after drinking is to moderate your alcohol intake, stay hydrated, and be mindful of the total amount of alcohol you consume. It is important to listen to your body and stop drinking when you start feeling intoxicated. Remember, responsible drinking is key to having an enjoyable and headache-free experience.