Alcohol is a part of life for many people, and moderation is the key to a healthy life. The Guidelines, for both men and women, recommend:
- No more than ten (10) standard drinks per week, to reduce the lifetime risk of harm from alcohol-related disease or injury; and
- No more than four (4) standard drinks on a single occasion, to reduce the risk of alcohol -related injury arising from that occasion.
It is possible to drink at a level that is less risky, while still having fun and relaxing, such as:
- Starting with non-alcoholic drinks and having these between alcoholic drink too (to quench your thirst, since alcohol can be dehydrating).
- Drink alcohol slowly. affect our ability to think rationally, make good decisions, or control strong emotions or reactions.
- Mixing alcohol with other drugs can also cause heightened reactions you might not want. You should also avoid taking medicines with alcohol or other drugs (due to the risks of drug interactions).
- Eat before and while you are drinking – especially before which helps lower your blood alcohol concentration.
- It’s best not to drink every day. Having regular alcohol-free days further reduces the lifetime risk of alcohol related disease or injury. Days off from alcohol also help reduce the negative effects of alcohol on your liver (alcohol is a poison to the liver) – this is additionally important if you have Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C, so follow your doctor’s advice if he/she has given any additional advice about alcohol limits for your individual health situation.
