A dangerous drinking fad that’s gaining popularity across demographics: inhaling or smoking alcohol. Though the idea of a fast-acting hit of alcohol or the thought of inhaling alcoholic vapor might seem alluring, this trend could be quite dangerous.
We’re seeing this trend of smoking alcohol not just among risk-takers like college kids or teens. We’re also seeing it among trendy adults and those who trying to lose weight (they don’t want the empty calories that come with consuming alcohol in its liquid form). To smoke alcohol, it’s poured over dry ice and inhaled. DIY kits are also used.
This is the thing, when alcohol vapor is inhaled it goes directly into the brain and the bloodstream from the lungs. It bypasses the stomach and liver, where it would normally be metabolized. What this means is: a person feels the effects almost immediately, the alcohol has no chance to lose potency, and a person can end up drunk very quickly.
There are other risks to smoking alcohol as well. With smoking alcohol, it’s difficult to know how much has been consumed because the liquid often remains. It’s hard on your lungs and nasal passages. There’s also a much higher risk for alcohol poisoning and overdose. When people drink to much alcohol, their body vomits as a way to prevent poisoning. But when the alcohol never passes through the liver and stomach, there is no way for the body to get rid of it. This could be potentially lethal.
Be wary of places that advertise drinks like the Vaportini, made using vaporizing methods, and tote it as being an easier way to imbibe responsibly or watch calories.
