Many people don’t realise how many units of alcohol they drink. Taking an alcohol self-assessment can help you to identify if the amount you drink is putting your health at risk.
There is an added risk for those who regularly drink above the UK chief medical officer’s recommended limit of 14 units per week.
Alcohol units video
Benefits of reducing your alcohol intake
Cutting back on alcohol can have positive effects often within a few days and it’s never too late to start reducing how much you drink.
Some of the benefits of reducing how much alcohol you drink include:
Sleeping better
Having more energy
Help maintain weight
Feeling happier
Improve mood and reduce anxiety
Having brighter skin
Improved concentration
The benefits of alcohol reduction video
You may be surprised to know how high in calories alcoholic drinks can be.
Use this alcohol calorie calculator to see how many calories are in different drinks. You can also use the calculator to work out how many calories you have consumed in alcohol over the course of a day or week.
10 top tips for reducing alcohol intake
Opt for the smallest serving size
Alternate drinks between alcoholic and non-alcoholic
Dilute alcoholic drinks with sugar free lemonade or soda
Avoid salty snacks
Don’t stock up on alcohol
Drink water first
Sip slowly
Plan ahead and keep track
Change your drinking habits
Buy low-alcohol or alcohol-free alternatives
For alcohol-free drink ideas, have a look at recipes here: WRCF Drink Recipes
Contact us
If you would like to discuss a referral to community alcohol services, please email [email protected] or contact your cancer team or GP.