Separate fact from fiction about how to sober up quickly
There are many misconceptions about how to "sober up" quickly. Let's separate fact from fiction and understand what really works.
Reality: Caffeine may make you feel more alert, but it doesn't reduce your BAC or improve impairment. You're just a wide-awake drunk.
Reality: Cold showers might make you feel more awake, but they have zero effect on your BAC level or actual impairment.
Reality: Food only helps before and during drinking by slowing absorption. Once alcohol is in your bloodstream, food won't help.
Reality: Physical activity doesn't significantly increase alcohol metabolism. It may make you feel more sober but won't lower BAC.
Your liver processes alcohol at a fixed rate - approximately one standard drink per hour. This rate cannot be sped up by any means. The only way to sober up is to wait for your body to metabolize the alcohol naturally.
These myths continue because they often make people "feel" more sober, even though they don't actually reduce BAC levels:
People believe they're more sober because they expect to be
Caffeine and cold water can make you feel more awake temporarily
People want to believe there's a quick fix for intoxication
These myths are often passed down through generations
Only time allows your liver to metabolize alcohol naturally
Water helps prevent dehydration but doesn't speed up metabolism
Sleep allows your body to focus on processing alcohol
Eating before drinking and pacing yourself can help
Now that you know the truth about sobering up, use our free BAC calculator to accurately track your blood alcohol content and make informed decisions.