Sensible drinking
Different alcoholic drinks contain different amounts of pure alcohol. The quantity of alcohol in a particular drink is measured in "units".
One unit is equivalent to one pub measure. The following normal pub measures each contain one unit of alcohol:
one small glass of wine |
one single measure of pub spirits |
half a pint of ordinary strength beer, lager or cider |
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It is important to remember:
- many beers and wines are stronger than average
- cocktails and alcopops often have very high alcoholic content, which is often masked by the taste of fruit juice
- drinks poured at home are usually more generous than pub measures.
By counting units you can keep track of your alcohol intake and stay within safe limits.
A sensible weekly drinking limit is:
- 21 units for men
- 14 units for women
However, the most damaging way to drink is to "binge drink" or drink a lot in one session. So, you shouldn't drink your whole weekly alcohol limit on Saturday night.
A sensible daily drinking limit is
- 3-4 units for men
- 2-3 units for women
It is a good idea to have one or two alcohol-free days each week, to let your body recover.
If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, it is important that you reduce your alcohol intake - see the alcohol & pregnancy section.
There are also some situations when you should NEVER drink alcohol:
- before or whilst you are driving (see the drinking & driving section)
- before operating machinery, using electrical equipment or working at heights (see the alcohol at work section)
- before playing sport or swimming
- whilst taking certain medications - check labels and ask your doctor if you're not sure.
Contacts
The contacts database contains details of organisations that may be able to offer information or assistance on this issue.
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Based on "Alcofacts: A Guide to Sensible Drinking" produced by the Health Promotion Division, 1999
