You know why they serve food at cocktail parties ? It slows down the absorption of alcohol. Texas DUI lawyer Deandra Grant  wrote a great post  on how to avoid driving while intoxicated. Tip 1. Notice I borrowed her title.

Drinking alcohol on an empty stomach increases rapid gastric emptying which is associated with a much faster absorption of alcohol into the blood stream.The alcohol goes right through the stomach into the intestines which absorb the alcohol faster. So drinking on a empty stomach means the alcohol is processed more quickly. Food in the stomach is the number one factor that influences the absorption of alcohol from the stomach.

Drinking with food slows down the absorption of alcohol because food is present with the alcohol so the alcohol is trapped in the stomach until the food is digested.  Ms. Grant advised eat a wing or a nacho at happy hour. My choice is a have something to eat at a tailgate party. Food makes a difference. In fact , Metro Nashville Police usually ask about your last food intake in their 132 form which is required in every DUI case in Nashville,Tn.

In Tennessee it is not against the law to have a drink and drive . It is only illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 BAC or that alcohol or another substance impairs the driver’s ability to safely operate a motor vehicle by depriving the driver of the clearness of mind and control of oneself which the driver would otherwise possess.

Remember the best way to avoid a DUI is to drink responsibly and when in doubt take a cab.