In a bid to reduce road accidents and improve public health, Spain is considering lowering the legal blood alcohol limit. conductors from 0.5 g/l to 0.2 g/l. This change has sparked debate about how it will affect both society and the health of citizens, not only in terms of road safety, but also in terms of psychological aspects, quality of life and other health indicators. physical well-being, such as weight and cardiovascular health, among others.
But really, what is the impact on drivers: will a wine be too alcoholic to drive? The new 0.2g/l limit means that even just one wine can bring drivers closer to the legal limit. Currently, consuming a standard drink (a 330 ml beer with 5% alcohol) generally increases blood alcohol levels by between 0.2 and 0.3 g/l depending on body weight, gender and metabolism.
With this new, more restrictive limit, drivers will have to be much more careful, as even small amounts of alcohol can result in penalties. Although some drivers may think that a beer does not affect your drivingstudies have shown that even Low blood alcohol level can reduce reaction time and the ability to make quick decisions.
What many people don’t consider is this how the body processes alcohol It doesn’t just depend on biological factors such as weight or gender, but also personal characteristics such as personality and self-perception.
But is a glass of alcohol really good with meals? Alcohol is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. A study published in The LancetEast leaves no doubt about it. Several studies have also linked alcohol consumption to an increased risk of developing cancer. A 2020 report from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified alcohol as a human carcinogen, and studies such as the one published in The BMJes.
The idea that a glass of wine with meals Whether it is beneficial for health has been a topic of debate for years. Historically, some studies have suggested that moderate consumption of wine, particularly red wine, may have protective effects on cardiovascular health due to its antioxidants, such as polyphenols and resveratrol. However, more recent research has challenged this belief, and the current consensus is that the potential benefits of moderate wine consumption does not exceed the risks associated with alcohol.
Quality of life: physical and mental health
Cardiovascular health: High alcohol consumption can contribute to high blood pressure, increased cholesterol and the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Reducing consumption, even modestly, can reduce these risks. This is especially important in a country like Spain, where heart disease is a leading cause of death.
Body weight: Reducing alcohol consumption can have a significant impact on weight management. Alcohol is a source of empty caloriesThat is, it provides energy without providing essential nutrients. For example, a 330 ml beer can contain about 150 calories, while a glass of wine can contain between 120 and 130 calories. These calories are easily added to the daily intake without their contribution being perceived. In addition, alcohol consumption can disinhibit the control of food intake, promoting excessive consumption of foods rich in fat or sugar. By reducing or eliminating alcohol from the diet, Many people experience a reduction in their total calorie intake, which promotes weight loss or maintenance of a healthy weight.
Sleep quality: Although alcohol in small amounts can cause drowsiness, its consumption negatively affects the quality of sleep. Alcohol disrupts the phases of sleep, especially REM sleep (the most restorative phase), and can increase interruptions during the night. This results in less deep and poorer quality sleep, leaving the person tired the next day. Reducing alcohol consumption may improve sleep cycleallowing people to experience more restful rest. This translates into greater energy during the day, better concentration and improved mood. Long-term lack of quality sleep is linked to health problems such as increased weight, stress, anxiety and chronic diseases.
Weight and metabolism
Body weight is a crucial factor in alcohol absorption. People with greater body mass They tend to metabolize alcohol more slowly, while those who weigh less can achieve a higher blood alcohol level from the same amount of drink.
Sex: biological differences
womenIn general, they metabolize alcohol differently men. Due to differences in body composition, women typically have higher blood alcohol levels than men for the same amount of alcohol. This means that for some women, just one beer could quickly approach the 0.2 g/l limit.
Personality and self-control
Your personality also plays an important role. People with a more impulsive personality or what tend to minimize risks They may be more likely to underestimate the effects of alcohol on their ability to drive. Additionally, those who have less emotional control or tend to justify risky behavior may be more likely to break the rules. These characteristics may influence how they view alcohol use and legal limits.
On the other hand, people with a more conservative personality or who are aware of the risks may avoid drinking alcohol if they are considering driving, reflecting greater control and responsibility in decision-making.
Legislation in Europe
In Europe, drink-driving regulations vary considerably from country to country, but Many have adopted strict policies in an effort to reduce road accidents and improve road safety.DUI laws reflect a growing awareness of the risks that even small amounts of alcohol can pose.
Sweden and Norway: almost zero tolerance
Sweden and Norway are among the European countries with the strictest laws. In both countries, the blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.2 g/l, similar to the new proposal in Spain. This restrictive approach has proven effective in reducing road accidents and reinforces the idea that Even small amounts of alcohol can affect the ability to drive safely. Knowledge and enforcement of these laws have contributed to Sweden and Norway having some of the lowest road accident rates in Europe.
Poland and Estonia: No tolerance
Other countries, such as Poland and Estonia, have adopted an alcohol-free driving policy. In these places, any amount of alcohol in the blood can result in penalties, and tolerance for drivers who have consumed alcohol is practically zero.
United Kingdom and Ireland: more flexible limits
On the other hand, some countries have higher limits. In the United Kingdom, for example, the limit is 0.8 g/l, which allows a greater margin of alcohol consumption before a driver can be penalized. Ireland has taken a more intermediate approach, with a limit of 0.5g/l, similar to that of Spain before the new proposal.
