BLOOMINGTON, Ind., Dec. 1 (UPI) -- A U.S. health expert warns if the weather outside is frightful, offer mittens, not alcohol.
Ruth Gassman of the Indiana University School of Health says drinking alcohol can contribute to hypothermia and the greater availability of alcoholic drinks during the holidays -- especially tempting sweet concoctions -- can lead to dangerous teen drinking.
"Perhaps well meaning, giving alcohol to youth or making it readily available to them is a recipe fraught with risk," Gassman said in a statement.
In addition to the risk of addiction, drinking alcohol increases an adolescent's chances of illness and injury by affecting sleep, mood, impulse control and communication. It can also cause a dangerous interaction if drinking is combined with commonly taken medications such as analgesics and cold/flu medicines.
Gassman suggests adults have alcohol-free holiday drinks for all age groups and model good drinking behaviors. Parents need to make sure teens are not imbibing behind a closed door -- in a bedroom or basement, Gassman says.
