milk is said to line the gut as already pointed out - but never seems to do much for me. definately eating before is a great idea that will line the gut. but also will fill you up so it's harder to drink. So a good idea. Should never drink on an empty stomach (although if i'm honest I know it's also hard to drink on a full stomach lol).

If we use an analogy you've jumpd straight into the deep end playing 100nl tables. Hard grogg is hard for a reason. Its very hard to remain sensible if you consume it any quantity.

Pace yourself that's the best advice, everytime one of your mates buys a drink make sure you're still drinking yours, drink 1 for every two they drink and you'll stay sober. Well relatively sober anyhow ;=)

The best advice though is just stay sensible my friend. Of course we drink for effect, anyone that says otherwise is lieing but just stay sensible. Most of all enjoy yourself, and go with the flow.

I was out today with a free bar and a free meal (well paid for in advance so technically not free - but you get the idea) but I'm home sober sensible, playing poker and chatting in FTR -and the reason is because I had enough to enjoy myself but stopped when I felt myself getting pissed!

It all just depends what kind of night you're after, the main thing is you enjoy yourself mate. You mention you're known for a middleweight - is that because you get drunk easily or dont drink vast quantities of booze?

It's not a negative not to drink gallons of booze!

Have a good night my friend.