ROSANNA DAVISON

Nutritional therapist and food blogger

During my time at UCD, in my early twenties, I went through my party phase and drank more frequently than I ever would now. I definitely drink far less than I did then. I don’t drink alcohol on weeknights and I could go for weeks without having a drink. On weeks I do have a drink, it would be a few over a meal on a Friday or Saturday night with friends or family. I would generally save it for more special occasions, such as a wedding or on holiday, rather than just watching TV. Therefore, it feels like more of a treat. I have to admit that I don’t go to pubs or clubs very often these days!

I can’t stand the feeling of being drunk, and I couldn’t tell you the last time I actually got drunk. I have a very clear switch-off button, so the minute I feel tipsy, I move straight on to the water for the rest of the night. The idea of being out of control or not remembering the night really scares me. With alcohol, I can take it or leave it. I’m just as happy to drive on a night out as I am to leave the car at home and have a few drinks. Again, I can’t remember the last time I had a hangover either. I don’t drink wine because I find it quite sugary, or cocktails, so I tend to stick to a lighter drink like vodka with soda water and lime, plus I always drink water alongside alcoholic drinks. So I find that combination definitely helps to hydrate the system.

I never feel hung-over after a night out, so I continue as normal with my day. My rule is that if I do have a few drinks, it can’t affect my ability to function the following day. That’s where drinking lots of water and drinking moderately is the best approach for me. I feel that drinking starts to become a problem when it affects your brain and body the next day. I really enjoy a glass of Champagne on special occasions, though.

I don’t use drinking as a reward. I love to have fun with friends when the occasion calls for it, but I enjoy it sensibly and never let it affect the rest of my life.