What are proven ways to prevent an alcohol flush reaction?

First things first: there is no cure for alcohol flush reaction (yet) other than to stop drinking alcohol.

However, not everyone wants to stop drinking alcohol completely. Alcohol plays a big part in many cultures, societies and is often integrated into growing up and becoming an adult. There’s alcohol at work functions, client dinners, first dates and university parties. 

Sometimes, you want to be able to have a drink without getting alcohol flush reaction.

Here at Asian Flush cure, we’ve been testing some of the best ways to reduce or even prevent alcohol flush reaction from happening. While no product has been the perfect fix, there’s been some really interesting discoveries.

What are proven ways to prevent an alcohol flush reaction?

While nothing will stop this reaction completely, there’s a few things you can try to limit your reaction – and a few things you should be aware of.

Antihistamines for Alcohol Flush Reaction

One of the old methods to deal with alcohol flush reaction is to use antihistamines off-label. Medicines like Pepcid AC, Zantac and Zrytec are common medicines many people use against this condition. However, these drugs are not made for alcohol flushing and have their own side effects and health concerns.

Most recently, stores in the US have been pulling Zantac off their shelves due to a potential cancer link. Walmart, Walgreens and CVS have all pulled Zantac from their stores, and some shops are offering refunds for people who recently bought the drug.

The Food and Drug Administration has released a statement that said some medications that use ranitidine (such as Zantac) contain low levels of an impurity that could cause cancer.

While some individuals report that antihistamines like these help reduce the level the individual will turn red, it’s still a risk. It’s important not to expose yourself to potential health concerns from these types of drugs, especially when they are not used in the appropriate way.

The three Asian Flush fighting elements

After reviewing Asian Flush relief options, we’ve found that there’s a combination of amino acids, antihistamine and enzyme that together, work very effectively against flushing. This conbintion includes N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), Quercetin and Bromelain.

N-acetyl cysteine (NAC)

NAC is a popular ingredient in many Asian Flush or Asian Glow products, including Sunset Alcohol Flush Support and Redee Patches. This amino acid breaks down into Glutathione which is one of the best antioxidants the body can take. Glutathione helps the liver’s ineffective enzyme and break down alcohol and alcohol byproducts much quicker. It’s these toxic byproducts that causes facial flushing. In addition, it can make headaches and nausea much less noticeable, if not completely eliminated.

Quercetin

Quercetin is an important anti inflammatory and antihistamine that works to minimize red skin flushing while also boosting the function of enzymes needed for Glutathione. Both NAC and Quercetin work to create and support the body’s level of Glutathione (hence why they’re much better when used together).

Bromelain

Finally, the third element in this group is the protein digesting enzyme called Bromelain. This element significantly increases the body’s ability to process Quercetin, which itself helps Glutathione

Any products that have these elements, particularly when used together, is definitely something to look out for. Those suffering from Asian Glow – take note! While these are other important ingredients, such as L-Theanine and Vitamin C, we believe these three ingredients are vital for effective relief.

Watch what you’re drinking

Watching what you drink includes a couple different things:

• Choose your drinks based on what will give you the least amount of a reaction
• Don’t binge drink
• Drink slowly at a relaxed pace (so avoid shots!)
• Try to have water or non-alcoholic drinks between every alcoholic drink
• Limit the amount of alcohol you drink overall

Many who suffer from Asian Flush report that certain drinks make their symptoms worse, such as red wine or beer, compared to less symptoms when drinking vodka or gin. Make sure to avoid drinks that make your flushing symptoms worse, and stick to drinks that have less of a reaction. We also share the best drinks and drinking tips for alcohol flushing here: Best Alcohol for Asian Flush

It’s also helpful to make sure you don’t binge drink. Take your time when drinking alcohol, and ideally have non-alcoholic drinks in-between every drink. Anything you can do so your body isn’t overwhelmed by alcohol is a good place to start. High levels of alcohol will only flood your system, causing a flare-up of symptoms. Plus, drinking water or non-alcoholic drinks will also help reduce the severity of a hangover the next day.

It goes without saying, but limiting the amount of alcohol you consume can help your body as well.

Want to learn more about this condition? Make sure to read our article “Why does my face go red after drinking alcohol?” for more details.

So what are proven ways to prevent an alcohol flush reaction?

For many people, this requires some trial and error. What works best against your symptoms? What seems to make your reaction worse? Either way, it’s important that you drink alcohol responsibly and speak to your doctor about any health concerns.

We will continue to test and review alcohol flush reaction products until we find something that’s perfect (if that’s possible)! Found a product that we haven’t reviewed yet? Make sure to leave a comment below and we’ll try it out.