Is it okay to drink white liquor (baijiu) when suffering from heatstroke?
Jul 16, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, one should not drink white spirits (baijiu) when suffering from heatstroke, as alcohol consumption can加重 the body's burden and hinder recovery from heatstroke. To promote recovery after heatstroke, it is advisable to avoid drinking white spirits and other alcoholic beverages. Instead, choose to drink cool boiled water, light salt water, or electrolyte beverages to replenish fluids and electrolytes in a timely manner. At the same time, maintain a cool and well-ventilated environment and take appropriate measures to lower body temperature.
Generally speaking, people suffering from heatstroke should not consume white spirits (baijiu). Drinking white spirits increases the body's burden and is not conducive to recovery after heatstroke. Detailed analysis is as follows:
If someone is experiencing heatstroke, excess heat has accumulated in the body and the body's temperature regulation function is impaired. Consuming white spirits at this time causes blood vessels to dilate and accelerates blood circulation. Although it may temporarily create a sensation of coolness, it hinders the dissipation of body heat, worsening the rise in body temperature. Additionally, the alcohol in white spirits can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, affecting digestion and making the body's already weakened condition worse.
When heatstroke is accompanied by symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, drinking white spirits further irritates the gastric mucosa, aggravating gastrointestinal reactions and potentially worsening vomiting, thereby exacerbating dehydration. Moreover, alcohol must be metabolized by the liver. During heatstroke, bodily functions are impaired, increasing the liver's metabolic burden and potentially affecting the normal recovery process.
To promote recovery after heatstroke, consumption of white spirits and other alcoholic beverages should be avoided. Instead, it is recommended to drink cool boiled water, light salt water, or electrolyte beverages to replenish fluids and electrolytes promptly. At the same time, maintaining a cool and well-ventilated environment and implementing appropriate cooling measures can help the body return to a normal condition more quickly.
