What is the 'Zebra Striping' alcohol trend? FIND OUT if it really prevent hangovers

YOLO, might not be a lifestyle, but it can surely be the theme of a Friday night party where getting drunk is the only thought on your mind. But what about the consequences later? Well, a drinking trend in the hangover world seems to be the cure!

Zebra Striping is a new drinking strategy that is helping pace their sips on a night out and avoid a hangover the next morning. What is it and is it really effective? Let's find out!

What is Zebra Striping?
Remember how zebra stripes have one black and one white stripe? Well, that's also how the drinking trend goes. You essentially have to alternate between one alcoholic and one non-alcoholic beverage like water or zero-proof beer, told a sports dietitian for NYU Athletics, Amy Stephens, to The Post. “The goal is to reduce the amount of alcohol consumed but still continue to socialise the same way," she added.

While the idea has been one followed for years, it has recently come into trend among the Gen Z drinkers who want to enjoy alcohol but also remain sober later on. According to a study published on a website, KAM in 2024, a quarter of British drinkers are "zebra striping" during their drinking nights. The figure rises to 2 in 3 in adults, which is 78% of 18-24 year olds.

Is Zebra striping really effective?
Keeping track of your drinks while socialising and enjoying them might feel like a task, so should you even try zebra striping? Well, according to experts, yes!

“Alternating beverages can help an individual to be more mindful and aware of their intake, which is important when it comes to consuming alcohol safely and in moderation," said registered dietitian and founder of Nutrition by RD, Rebecca Ditkoff, to The Post.

Additionally, drinking less keeps the body's hunger in check, thus helping you avoid late-night munchings, according to Stephens.

Is Zebra Striping also good for mental health?
Well, it seems zebra striping has more benefits than saving your pocket from a late-night dinner and your head from a banging hangover.

“Drinking fewer empty calories from alcohol will allow for more nutritious calories,” she added. “Drinking less also reduces the risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances — especially important in warmer months or if you plan to exercise the next day", said Stephens.

Additionally, it can help avoid participating in dangerous situations such as unsafe physical encounters or drunk driving.

Adverse effects of alcohol
According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 28.9 million Americans aged 12 and older have battled alcohol use disorder.

Stephens added that consistently drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can have consequences such as alcohol dependence, liver damage, heart problems and digestive issues like ulcers and pancreatitis. Additionally, the US Surgeon General issued an advisory in January linking even small amounts of alcohol to increased risk of seven cancers, including breast and colorectal cancer, which are on the rise in America.

If you are someone who wants to continue drinking but also wants to moderate the consumption and avoid health concerns, zebra striping might just be the best drinking strategy for you!