Alcohol Abuse Advice

California Treatment: Drinking too Much or More Than You Should?

What is considered a safe level for drinking?

In moderation, wine can have some positive health effects. But what about other alcoholic beverages and how do you know when it is too much?

On an average, having no more than 2 drinks per day for males and 1 drink per day for females and older people is considered to be a safe level.

Many of people are able to drink at safe levels and will not become alcoholics. Research has shown that those who are able to drink in moderation will rarely develop a drinking problem. More specifically, men should restrict themselves to no more than 14 drinks a week. Having more than 4 drinks during the day and 3 for women could signify a problem.

Watching your drinking behavior is important. In the United States, a standard sized drink is one that contains about 0.6 fluid oz (or 14 g) of ‘pure’ alcohol. The quantity of each alcoholic drink is considered safe depending on the alcohol content in each drink. For example, beer has a 5% alcohol content. So a regular 12 fl oz beer would be considered 1 drink. Wine has a higher alcohol content of 12% . Hard liquor contains eve more at 40% alcohol content. Thus, a 1.5-oz glass or shot of 50-ml would be considered to be 1 drink.

For adults, there is a safe level of drinking but it’s important to take into account special circumstances and conditions. For example, if you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, planning to drive, are on medication, or have a medical condition, it is recommended to refrain from drinking. Additionally, individuals who are under the legal age should also not drink.