Alcohol has a legitimate role in society when enjoyed responsibly by legal purchase age adults who choose to drink. When enjoyed in moderation, alcohol can be part of a healthy lifestyle that includes good diet and exercise.
Responsible drinking means:
- Drinking enjoyably, sociably and pacing yourself.
- Drinking within the dietary guidelines for moderate alcohol consumption. In most countries across Europe, low-risk drinking guidelines are set at 1 or 2 drinks a day and not every day.
- Not drinking at all in situations when the effects of alcohol will put someone’s safety or health at risk – such as when driving, when pregnant or in certain work situations.
- As a parent it means being aware of the risks associated with underage drinking and setting an example of moderation.
On the other hand, heavy drinking (more than 4 drinks on any day or 14 per week) is associated with increased risk of a range of health and social harms, including damage to your internal organs, accidents and injuries, and difficulties in functioning positively in family, work and community life. Liver damage is strongly associated with long-term heavy drinking and may culminate in cirrhosis. Scientific studies have shown as well that such an heavy consumption is associated with an increased risk of certain cancers, some cardiovascular conditions and alcohol use disorders. An individual’s risk for a given disease is also influenced by their family history of disease, genetics, current health status, nutrition, and lifestyle and environmental factors.
For you to make an informed-decision, we suggest you follow the dietary guidelines for moderate alcohol consumption published by national public health authorities (click here). Lastly, for anyone with concerns about their health, we would always recommend that they speak to their doctor.