Tips for drinking less
switch to light beer
alternate alcoholic drinks with water or fruit-based drinks (see recipe ideas below)
order half nips of spirits
use water to quench thirst and sip
alcoholic drinks slowly
don't fill wine glasses to the top
wait until your wine glass is empty
before topping up to help keep count of your drinks
enjoy wine spritzers (wine and soda
or mineral water)
have a few alcohol-free days during
the week, especially if you are a regular drinker
eating can slow your drinking pace
and fill you up
avoid salty snacks that make you thirsty
so you drink more
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to drink with meals or between meals?
Some research shows that drinking in between meals is more risky than drinking at meal times. We do not know if this is because people drink less overall when they eat, or whether food dilutes the harmful effects of alcohol.
Try to avoid these harmful drinking patterns:
heavy drinking with little food intake
binge drinking and overdoing it
heavy/excessive drinking on the weekend and at parties
What about smoking and drinking?
The combined effect of smoking and drinking significantly increases cancer risk, especially cancers of the mouth, larynx, oesophagus and digestive tract. The combined harmful effects of smoking and alcohol are much greater than either of these alone.
Is alcohol good for the heart?
The risks and benefits of alcohol vary for different diseases. A small regular amount of alcohol, such as a glass of red wine (one standard drink = 100ml), may protect against heart disease. Stay within the recommended limits if you choose to drink. Other things you can do to reduce your risk of heart disease - not smoking, healthy eating and regular physical activity, also reduce cancer risk.
Is alcohol fattening?
Alcohol contains a lot of kilojoules (or calories) so you can easily gain weight. Being overweight is also a risk factor for some cancers.
Can I drink more on social occasions?
Drinking large amounts of alcohol at once is not recommended. It is better to drink small amounts regularly.
Non-alcoholic fruity drink recipes
Berry Frappe
300g of your favourite berries (strawberries, raspberries or a combination)
500ml soda water or diet lemonade
1 cup ice
Pulse all ingredients together in a blender or food processor. Serve in wine or cocktail glasses. Serves 4
Fruit lovers punch
1.25L mineral water
1.25L diet ginger ale
500 ml fruit juice of your choice
375g crushed pineapple
1 punnet of strawberries, cut into quarters
pulp of 1 passionfruit
1 handful of fresh mint leaves
A few oranges slices, cut in half, for added colour
Mix all ingredients together in punch bowl. Add ice to chill. Serves 20
