5 tips for low-risk drinking
Updated: Jul. 16, 2019
Get all the health benefits of alcohol without the risks. Try these low-risk drinking tips the next time you’re out
Source: Best Health Magazine, March/April 2011. Illustration by Jennifer Masseau
Moderate drinking has been linked to health benefits such as lower risk of heart disease and stroke, and even decreased risk of developing osteoporosis or dementia. However, overdoing it on the cocktails may actually increase your risk of developing cancer.
To reduce your risks from drinking follow these guidelines:
‘ Stick to a maximum of two standard drinks (see ‘What’s a Standard Drink?’ below) a day. Centre for addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) recommends women have no more than nine drinks a week; men ‘should have no more than 14.
‘ If you do drink, avoid getting drunk.
‘ Wait at least one hour between drinks.
‘ Have something to eat while drinking.
‘ Alternate with non-alcoholic beverages, such as water, soft drinks or juice.
This article was originally titled “How much is too much” in the March/April 2011 issue of Best Health. Subscribe today to get the full Best Health experience’and never miss an issue!’and make sure to check out what’s new in the latest issue of Best Health
