Asian Flush Syndrome (AFS)

Let’s help get your alcohol flush reaction under control.

‘What are you drinking tonight?’
It’s usually the first question a friend asks you on a night out. And, for most people, it’s easy to answer.
But if you’re of Asian descent, a question like this can dampen your evening before it’s even started.
Because you know the moment you take a sip of alcohol, your face will enter radish mode. And you’re stuck wondering if that one drink was even worth it.
Yes, we’re talking about alcohol flush reaction.

What alcohol flushing syndrome is
Alcohol flushing syndrome has many names – Asian glow, alcohol flush reaction, ALDH2 deficiency, and so on.
It’s a genetic condition that affects up to 45% of east Asian people* and up to 29% of caucasian people*.
In short, when you drink alcohol, you tend to experience a warm flush of red to the face.
This is because your liver lacks a certain enzyme to break down the toxins. Because of this, the alcohol then builds up in your system and causes a bunch of uncomfortable symptoms.

The symptoms
For some, even just a few sips of alcohol can cause:

• Red, itchy blotches
• Flushing of the skin
• Sickness
• Uncomfortable pressure
• Red, bloodshot eyes
• A hot, tingly sensation
• Difficulty breathing
• Dizziness

How to prevent it
You can never fully remove the reaction when drinking.
But, there are a few preventative things you can try to lessen your symptoms.
Holistic supplements like milk thistle and alpha lipoic acid to boost glutathione levels
Boitin, Riboflavin, Vitamin C, Vitamin B12 and Vitamin B6 to aid your immune system and metabolism
Antihistamines (H2 blockers) like Zantac to lessen the reaction

(Remember, always talk to a GP before you take medications with alcohol.)
In the end, the only foolproof way to prevent your symptoms is to reduce your alcohol intake.
So, you have two options:
Non-alcoholic and soft drinks (0.00% ABV)
Low-alcoholic drinks (up to 1.2% ABV)
Your symptoms may still show with a low-alcohol drink, but you’ll reduce the intensity. That means you can still socialise without experiencing the discomfort you feel with other, regular, alcoholic drinks.

Everyone reacts to alcohol differently, and some people, particularly those from an Asian background, can experience adverse reactions to alcohol. That is why we created Bu Hong, a premium low-alcohol beer (1.2% ABV), brewed with a unique blend of ingredients to help manage the discomfort associated with Asian Flush Syndrome. But Bu Hong's appeal extends beyond Asian drinkers. It's perfect for anyone with gluten or wheat sensitivities, and equally satisfying for anyone seeking a delicious beer experience.

Don’t Fear Beer: Wheat Free / Gluten Free / Vegan. Make smart decisions.

* Source: Che-Hong Chen, Julio Cesar Batista Ferreira, Eric R. Gross, and Daria Mochly-Rosen (2014). Targeting Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 2: New Therapeutic Opportunities