Alcohol with Diet Mixers and Problems among Collegians

Drinking alcohol with diet mixers leads to a faster high blood alcohol concentration (BAC). That’s compared to non-diet mixers.  This is because artificial sweeteners increase the absorption of alcohol. Thus, using diet mixers might lead to an increased risk of alcohol-related problems.

The Study

Researchers tested this hypothesis. They also collected data on the prevalence of this practice among a sample of college students. In addition, the investigators explored factors possibly associated with using diet mixers.

Participants were 686 undergraduates, of whom 73% were women. They completed anonymous self-reports. Researchers collected information on the use of diet mixers, alcohol-related problems, eating behaviors while drinking, sensation seeking, body mass index (BMI), and demographics.

alcohol with diet mixersAbout 36% of the sample reported drinking alcohol with diet mixers. Most did so at least once a month. Those who reported such mixing had more alcohol-related problems. And, the more often they consumed in this way, the more problems they reported. These relationships persisted after controlling for typical drinking level and sensation seeking.

There were no differences between drinking alcohol with diet mixers and gender, eating behaviors while drinking, and BMI.

Drinking alcohol with diet mixers may be a risk factor for alcohol-related problems.

Alcohol with Diet Mixers

Resources

Web
Readings
Source