How do we define 'moderate' or 'sensible drinking'? Indeed it
is difficult to lay down strict guidelines as to what constitutes
'moderate consumption' as this will depend on your age, size,
sex and health, not to mention how and when you consume alcohol
as both the speed of consumption and drinking with food will effect
the absorption of alcohol.
As a result, definitions of moderation by Governments' vary from
country to country, but within the Medical Profession there is
wide reference to the following perameters: 1-2 drinks (of 10g)
per day for women and 2-3 drinks (10g) per day for men.
In summary, moderate consumption of alcohol improves health and
prolongs life, as scientifically demonstrated by hundreds of studies.
The major benefit of moderate alcohol consumption is the reduction
of heart attacks, our most common killer. The beneficial effect
of alcohol lasts for 24 hours, hence the mesage is to imbibe moderately
and regularly.
Prolonged abuse of alcohol causes many life threatening conditions,
including heart disease, haemorrhagic stroke, cancers of the liver,
breast and of the mouth and throat, and cirrhosis of the liver.
Most people enjoy drinking and find it a sociable and relaxing
thing to do. Normally drinking sensibly leads to no harm and is
compatible with a healthy lifestyle. But there are times when
drinking too much - or at all - can cause problems. For example:
Don't
- Drink and Drive
- Operate machinary, use electrical equipment or work at heights
after drinking
- drink heavily before playing sport
- Drink while on certain medications - ask your Doctor if you are
unsure
- Binge drink - it can lead to health and other problems
The Drinking Guidelines button will inform you of your country's definition of 'a drink'
and sensible drinking guidelines.
