No alcoholic drink can replace water in the heat. In fact, drinking alcohol in hot weather causes the body temperature to rise to dangerous levels (above 40ºC) because it increases dehydration. That is why people often end up with a headache, nausea and exhaustion. And if this coincides with a heat wave, the danger is multiplied.
Lower risk perception and accidents
Alcohol clouds the mind and reflexes, creating a false sense of security. Heat further reduces concentration and coordination, which can increase accidents.
The Directorate General of Traffic reminds us that even a small amount of alcohol at the wheel causes a decrease in reflexes; in addition, driving with the interior of the car at 30-35ºC can impair reflexes as much as a blood alcohol level of 0.5g/L, the legal limit in Spain. The result is an increase in driving errors and miscalculated braking distances.
Something similar happens in the water too, because alcohol reduces our coordination and judgement. Around 31% of drowning deaths are alcohol-related.
In short, the combination of alcohol and heat makes you less aware of danger, and causes more reckless behaviour.
Refreshing alternatives and moderation
The demand for alcohol-free options is growing—mocktails, kombucha, 0.0% beers—making it easier to toast without putting your health at risk. These options allow you to cool down without a drop of alcohol.
If you do decide to drink, do so in moderation. Some basic tips:
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Set limits: Do not exceed 1-2 SDUs (Standard Drink Units) per day. A SDU is equivalent to 100 ml of wine, 300 ml of beer, or 30 ml of spirits. Remember that there is no "safe" level of consumption: the less alcohol you drink, the better.
Summer offers many ways to cool down healthily by consuming drinks that help you stay properly hydrated. It is important to remember that alcohol can have a negative impact on the quality of your sleep and puts extra strain on your heart in hot conditions. If you decide to drink alcohol, do so in moderation and responsibly: your body will thank you for it when the temperatures rise. Staying hydrated, protecting yourself from the sun, using sunscreen and moderating your alcohol intake, are the recipe for a safe and trouble-free summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does alcohol hydrate or refresh you when it’s very hot?
No, on the contrary: alcohol dehydrates you and makes it difficult to lower your body temperature. It is a diuretic—you lose more fluid when you urinate—and it dilates blood vessels—you sweat more—taking water away from your body just when you need it most. Although a cold beer may feel refreshing, it actually prevents the body from cooling down properly. The only drink that truly hydrates and cools you down is water.
Why is it dangerous to go swimming after drinking alcohol?
Because alcohol impairs your coordination and judgement. Even if you feel fine, swimming while intoxicated can cause you to tire suddenly or misjudge risks. Many drowning death victims have alcohol in their blood. Moreover, if you are watching children, drinking reduces your ability to focus on them. It is best not to swim if you have been drinking alcohol.
What can I drink to cool down instead of alcohol?
Water, of course! There are also many delicious non-alcoholic options: homemade lemonade, iced tea, slushies or natural fruit smoothies, or a cold gazpacho. Creative mocktails (alcohol-free cocktails) and 0.0% beers are also popular. All these drinks hydrate you and quench your thirst without any risks.
