For many generations, there have been rumours that suggested Asians, especially those of East Asian descent have a lower tolerance to alcohol and are experience symptoms that are pretty strange.
In this article, we will be diving into the realities of the phenomenon called ‘Asian Flush’ and alcohol intolerance in the Asian community. By looking at the science behind Asian Flush we aim to create awareness for this genetic condition.
While there isn't a cure, there are products like our Asian Glow Patches that you can put on to assist in the breakdown of alcohol in your body, say goodbye to flushing and hello to confidence!
Let's dive in!
Asian Flush vs Alcohol Allergy
Beyond many believing they have an alcohol allergy, in many cases, it is just Asian Flush rather than a true alcohol allergy. The reason behind this is a true alcohol allergy is very rare and the symptoms can be life-threatening.
What is Asian Flush?
Asian flush, also known by the name alcohol flush or Asian glow, is a physical reaction to alcohol. The symptoms can be uncomfortable, here are a few things you could experience:
- Facial flushing
- Headaches
- Increase in body temperature
- Increased heart rate
- Bloodshot eyes
- Tightness in throat or chest
The flushing and other symptoms occur after consuming even after a few sip and can vary in intensity depending on a few different factors such as how much you have eaten before drinking, how much you have drunk, individual tolerance to alcohol, and the type of alcohol consumed.
Asian Flush Science
Asian Flush occurs due to a genetic variation of the enzyme ALDH2, People with this deficiency have little to no activity in this enzyme, which leads to the body not being able to break down acetaldehyde, a toxic by-product of the alcohol metabolism process. The build-up of acetaldehyde in the bloodstream leads to strange and uncomfortable reactions to people after drinking.
The Prevalence Of Asian Flush in Asia
Asian Flush is most commonly seen in Asians, mainly East Asians or of East Asian descent, this includes people from Japan, Korea, and China to name a few.
Studies on this phenomenon have reported around 30-40% of East Asians have the missing ALDH2 gene, which makes them react badly to alcohol.
With the prevalence of Asian Flush in Asia so high, this can lead to many people experiencing the symptoms after drinking leading to either drinking less or drinking more in some countries where there is a big drinking culture, and that's what we will be talking about next.
Asian Drinking Culture
In many countries across Asia, drinking alcohol is deeply engrained into the culture and social life. In cultures where drinking is an important part of social life or culture, people who get Asian Flush may feel pressure to stick to the social norms, which can lead to many people not looking for ways to tackle Asian Flush, like our Flush Off patch or drinking more even though they are experiencing severe symptoms
Ways To Tackle Asian Flush
Whilst Asian Flush is not curable, you won't be able to have a complete fix for this genetic condition although, we have created a patch that is put on before drinking alcohol that reduces the effects of Asian flush, our patches contain healthy vitamins and antioxidants that assist in this process, so you can start enjoying your nights rather than avoiding them.
Can Asians Be Allergic to Alcohol?
The simple answer to that is yes they can, although it's more likely that it is an alcohol intolerance rather than an alcohol allergy, with East Asians having a much higher chance of getting this genetic mutation than other ethnic groups.