Summertime in Australia means plenty of sunshine, beach days, and social gatherings. And let’s face it, alcohol often plays a part in these events. While there is no ‘safe’ amount of alcohol, these tips can help us reduce the risks to our health if we choose to drink.
- Stay Hydrated: It’s easy to forget to drink water when you’re having fun, but dehydration can exacerbate the effects of alcohol.
- Eat Before You Drink: Food can help slow down the absorption of alcohol into your bloodstream, so it’s a good idea to eat something before you start drinking. Slow down and enjoy food pairings.
- Choose Your Drinks Wisely: Some drinks contain more alcohol than others, so be mindful of what you’re drinking. For example, a standard glass of wine or beer contains less alcohol than a shot of spirits. Use the FARE standard drink face sheet
- Embrace the Rise of Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Australians are increasingly turning to non-alcoholic drinks as a healthier and more refreshing alternative to traditional alcoholic drinks. Major alcohol brands and select craft makers are selling well-known beer, wine, and spirits — all without any alcohol.
- Consider Dry Challenges: Dry July, Sober October, and Febfast are just a few examples of popular dry challenges that encourage people to abstain from alcohol for a set period. These challenges can be a great way to improve your health, boost your energy levels, and save money.
- Remember, Drinking is for Pleasure, Not Health: While moderate alcohol consumption may be pleasurable, drinking can have serious health consequences, such as injury, chronic conditions, and premature death. There is no safe amount of alcohol. It’s a major public health issue, so if you choose to drink, stick to the Australian guidelines.
For healthy adults:
- No more than 4 standard drinks on any single day
- No more than 10 standard drinks per week
It’s important to note that this is a guideline, and individual tolerance and risk factors can vary. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking certain medications, you should avoid alcohol altogether.
Help to quit drinking
If you’re a heavy drinker, or feel alcohol is a problem for you, giving it up can lead to many improvements in your life. Your mood, energy, relationships, money, work productivity, and health can all benefit.
Your doctor can refer you to treatment such as detox, medication, and counselling.
The National Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline provides confidential support to anyone struggling with addiction 24 hours a day. Phone 1800 250 015.
For more information please read: The Australian Alcohol Guideline