If 2024 has taught us one thing, it’s that social media trends can range from the inspiring to the downright bizarre. From unique dance moves to creative life hacks, some trends entertain us, while others make us stop and wonder: “Is this really a good idea?” A viral trend this year is that people are getting together to create what they’re calling the ultimate cocktail – a mix of tonic water, vodka, tequila, whiskey, rum and soda. The video shows a group adding ingredients one after another, laughing while creating this “deadly” mixture. His final decision? “Not bad” and “delicious.”

Sure, it may seem like harmless fun for an Instagram reel, but mixing different types of alcohol isn’t just a wild experiment, it can actually be risky for your health.

Combining different types of alcohol can cause a variety of short-term and long-term health problems, ranging from acute intoxication to long-term damage.

Dr. Eric Rimm, professor of epidemiology and nutrition at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, explains that mixing different types of alcohol often increases the blood alcohol concentration (BAC). “People underestimate how quickly BAC increases when alcohol is consumed multiple times in a short period of time,” he said. Joint force can cause loss of coordination, impaired judgment, and increased risk of alcohol poisoning.

Adding carbonated mixers like soda or tonic water to alcohol can worsen the problem. A 2017 study published in Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research showed that carbonation accelerates the absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream, making intoxication faster.

Long-term health risks: Immune system suppression and organ damage

Mixing alcohol doesn’t just have immediate consequences — it can also weaken your immune system and damage vital organs over time. Dr. Jessica Mellinger, a hepatologist at the University of Michigan, emphasizes that combining multiple types of alcohol increases the toxic load on your liver. “The liver is already working overtime to process the alcohol. Adding spirits releases different compounds, making detoxification more difficult and increasing the risk of liver damage,” she warns.

Studies also show that excessive alcohol consumption can impair white blood cell production, making the body more susceptible to infection. Over time, chronic drinking of alcohol – especially mixed alcohol – can lead to cardiovascular problems and digestive tract disorders.

– Consume one type of wine: Western health experts, including Dr. Rimm, recommend consuming one type of wine to more effectively manage your intake.

– Pace yourself: Drink water slowly and alternately to stay hydrated and reduce the risk of overdosing.

– Know your limits: Understand your tolerance and avoid peer pressure to participate in risky trends.

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