Sensible Limits

"What are the new sensible limits?"
There has been some confusion since the Department of Health issued new, more complex guidelines on sensible drinking in December 1995. Much of the confusion arose from misleading press reports about those guidelines. However the three key points are very simple:

	The weekly limit of 21 units for men and 14 units for women REMAINS THE SAME. Obviously people vary and the figures approximate average safety levels
	There is a new additional emphasis on the amount which it may be considered sensible for a person to drink on any one day. For men the recommended daily upper limit is 4 units maximum For women the recommended daily upper limit is 3 units maximum
	It is recommended that people DO NOT DRINK THIS MAXIMUM AMOUNT EVERY DAY, (which would, after all, mean exceeding the weekly limit!)

Sensible drinking patterns (in units)
	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday
Men	3	4	0	2	4	4	4
Women	2	3	2	0	2	2	3

OTHER ADVICE IN THE REPORT
There is a small health benefit in terms of prevention of coronary heart disease to be derived from drinking alcohol for men over 40 years of age and for post-menopausal women. However, this benefit is greatest at a level of consumption not exceeding two units a day for both sexes. (While some people in these categories may wish to consider the possible health benefit of light drinking, Practice Staff need to take individual medical, social, cultural and psychological factors into consideration before encouraging patients to take up drinking. Taking up exercise can be just as beneficial!)

After an episode of heavy drinking, it is advisable to refrain from drinking for 24 hours to allow tissues to recover.

People should be advised not to drink at all where doing so might put them at risk, e.g. driving, operating machinery.

The dangers of intoxication should be emphasised, especially to young people who may indulge in risk-taking behaviour.

Women who are or are intending to become pregnant should not drink more that 1-2 units once or twice a week and should avoid intoxication.

Any health advice should take into consideration all aspects of a person's make-up and lifestyle. Drinking alcohol carries other risks besides the medical ones.

OTHER ADVICE NOT IN THE REPORT!

Recent research indicates that when post-menopausal women taking Hormone Replacement Therapy drink within sensible limits, there is an increase of circulating oestrogen in the bloodstream of between two and three times. High circulating oestrogen levels are thought to be associated with increased risk of breast cancer. Not many people know this. Women taking HRT may wish to consider carefully their drinking habits.