WHAT HAPPENS WHEN...

...you get half-cut?

1 GET ’EM IN

Salivating at the very thought of that first sip? Research found that the anticipation of your initial quaff – as well as the actual event – raises levels of the feel-good hormone dopamine*. Sadly for those with a busy day tomorrow, it’s that same buzz that convinces you to have ‘just one more’.

2 FEELIN’ GOOD

That confidence you discover after a few drinks is thanks to ethanol. Once in your bloodstream, it travels to your brain, where it gives you that feeling of invincibility*. Sipping bubbles? The extra pressure forces the alcohol into your blood faster – so if you plan on remembering the barbie, switch to wine asap.

3 THE EYES HAVE IT

Listen up, alcohol causes slower pupil dilation. In fact, one study by Western University, Canada, found it reduces the ability of your eyes to adjust vision by as much as 30%, even if you’re below the legal drink-drive limit. So, if you’re suffering blurred lines, it’s time to book an Uber.

4 JUICES FLOWING

Three Sauv Blancs in, alcohol suppresses the release of anti-diuretic hormone (ADH), which quells your need to pee in the night. Without the ADH dam in your kidneys, water floods your bladder to bursting. Switch to spirits: the alcohol still inhibits ADH, but a reduced volume will ease the urgency.

5 NO LIMITS

Once at your liver, booze is broken down into harmless fatty acids, CO2 and water. Flood it, however, and an excess of acetaldehyde leads to an almighty hangover.

Your liver can process the equivalent of one glass of wine per hour. Stick to this and see off trouble in the battle against morningafter misery. Cheers.