There seem to be constantly conflicting messages in the media about alcohol. One minute it is damaging the nation's health, the next it's protecting your heart. One day you need to stick to weekly alcohol limits, the next it's your daily allowance you have to think about.
In fact, these messages are all true, but not for everyone. For instance, if you're a man over the age of 40 or a woman over the age of about 50, a single small glass of wine a day may protect you against heart disease. But two glasses does no more good than one, and fairly quickly the damage from excess alcohol outweighs any possible benefit.
As for daily and weekly limits, it's less confusing than it might seem. To avoid any damage to your health, women should stick to a maximum of 2-3 units in a day and men to 3-4 units (learn out more about the number of units in different drinks). However, if you are drinking that much, you should give your body (and particularly your liver) a couple of days off a week to recover, which adds up to a weekly total of 14 units for women and 21 units for men. If you are pregnant, have diabetes, or have other medical conditions the recommended limits may be lower – your GP or nurse can advise you.
Not everyone comes to harm if they drink more than these recommended limits, but it's easy for your alcohol intake to creep up to even more dangerous levels. At Richford Gate we offer a full range of services including assessment of your health risks, general advice about safe levels of drinking and how to stick to them (from your GP or practice nurse) and a confidential alcohol counsellor service.
Use the online calculator to get a better idea of your drinking patterns and whether there is any cause for concern. Your GP or practice nurse will be delighted to offer information, support, advice and referral as appropriate.