A story shared by JJ Hayes

Okay, there is a lot to unpack with a headline like that.  I’m not suggesting you drink a couple of bottles of wine and get immeditely behind the wheel.  That’s not even what this article is saying.  However, it is recommending, with research to back it up, than consuming wine shortly before you drink can actually enhance your driving skills, your awareness and more.  Sounds crazy, right!!  Here is what you need to know from the International Drivers Association.

Revealing the Six Reasons: How Can Wine Improve Your Driving Skills?

1. Increased Alertness After consuming a small amount of wine, the body can experience heightened alertness. According to a study from the University of Rochester, a couple of glasses of red wine can help clear the mind after a hectic day.
   That’s why Wyatt suggests it “can provide that slight mental boost needed when setting off on a long drive.” He recommends one standard glass of wine for the average adult to achieve this.
2. Reduced Stress Levels According to the National Library of Medicine, a glass of wine can also reduce stress, leading to a more relaxed and less anxious drive.
   However, Wyatt warns against overconsumption that can impair judgment or slow reaction time.
3. Enhanced Perception Alcohol in wine has been found to increase the sensitivity of taste buds, improving the ability to distinguish colors and shadows, according to an article from the Wine Folly.
   Wyatt notes this enhanced perception can translate into more precise visual assessment while driving.
4. Improved Mood According to a report from Montemaggio, a glass of wine helps elevate one’s mood and improve mental outlook as wine releases serotonin and dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitters.
   “Driving in a more upbeat mood can help you become more cautious and easily follow traffic rules,” Wyatt says.
5. Enhanced Decision Making According to the National Institutes of Health, wine is associated with a sudden increase in CBF, particularly in the frontal regions of your brain. Increased blood flow to the brain’s frontal lobe, which controls decision-making, is another benefit of moderate wine drinking.
   Wyatt advises that this can translate into quicker decision-making and better judgment on the road.
6. Improved Heart Health Lastly, moderate wine drinking has heart-healthy benefits, leading to better cardiovascular function, according to a report from the Mayo Clinic.
   Wyatt states that good cardiovascular function is crucial for optimal driving endurance.

Key Takeaways: Five Steps to Stay Safe on the Road

Despite the promoted benefits of drinking a glass of wine before driving, safety should always be the main concern. Dominic Wyatt urges drivers to observe these safety precautions:

1. Maintain moderate wine consumption. One standard glass for the average adult is enough.
2. Stay well-hydrated before and after drinking to dilute alcohol in your body.
3. Wait at least an hour after drinking before hitting the road to allow for alcohol to metabolize.
4. Understand the importance of knowing how your body reacts to alcohol. Everyone has different tolerance and reaction levels.
5. Implement a zero-alcohol policy if you’re prone to heavy drinking, have previously faced DUI, or are not comfortable with the idea.

Improving driving skills doesn’t happen overnight. However, taking deliberate and responsible steps – including, according to Wyatt, occasionally enjoying a single, pre-drive glass of wine – may contribute to becoming a more focused, less stressed, and more alert driver. But remember, this advice should never be used as an excuse for irresponsible drinking behavior. Safety should always be the priority.