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CEBU, Philippines - I like to drink - in moderation. But moderation to one person might seem like boozing it up to another. Individuals vary so much in tolerance for alcohol, and even the effects on the same person differ widely according to his state of mind and health.

Alcohol can be hard on the circulation and on the liver, and drinking makes you less tolerant of the hot weather and more fatigued after exertion. These are all good reasons to watch your step with liquors, wines and spirits.

The following are some hints to help you drink responsibly and derive more enjoyment and pleasure from drinking if you choose to do so.

.You must know your limits. Select the type and amount of alcohol that are healthy for you. Make sure that your system can handle the alcohol you choose without losing your demeanor or your control.

.Most people find that no more than a drink and a half per hour will keep them in control of the situation and avoid drunkenness.

.Eat food while you drink. It is particularly good to eat high protein foods such as cheese and peanuts, which help to slow the absorption of alcohol into the circulatory system.

.Cultivate taste. Choose quality rather than quantity. Learn the names of fine wines, whiskeys, and beers. Learn what beverage goes with what foods.

.Beware of unfamiliar drinks as the alcohol is not always detectable, and it is difficult to space them out.

.At business meetings, make sure that drinking improves social relationships rather than impair them.

.Use alcohol carefully in connection with other drugs.

.Avoid drinking mixed drinks on an empty stomach on a hot day. This might produce hypoglycemia which can cause dizziness, weakness and mood change.

.Accept a drink only when you really want one. At a party, if someone is trying to force another drink on you, ask for ice or drink an alternative beverage.

.Sip your drink. If you gulp a drink for the effect, you are losing the pleasure of drinking, namely tasting and smelling the various flavors. This is particularly true for wine.

.When drinking out, if you must drive home, have your drinks with dinner, not afterwards. This allows time for the alcohol to be burned up and for it to be absorbed slowly into the circulatory system.

.Respect the rights of individuals who do not wish to drink. It is considered impolite to attempt to get people to drink who do not wish to. They may abstain for religious or medical reasons, because they are recovering alcoholics, or they just may not like the taste and effect it has on them. (FREEMAN)